Meet Eman: Connecting Technology, Persistence, and Youth Mental Wellness

At Touchstone Foundation, our interns bring diverse skills, experiences, and perspectives that strengthen our work supporting youth mental wellness throughout Lancaster County. This semester, we are excited to welcome Eman Qundes, a senior Computer Science student at Millersville University who brings a passion for technology, problem-solving, and making a meaningful difference in the community.

After initially joining Touchstone Foundation as an IT volunteer, Eman transitioned into the role of Communications Data Intern, where they will continue developing their technical skills while contributing to the systems and communications that support our mission.

Discovering a Passion for Technology

Eman’s interest in technology began during high school while exploring potential career paths. An initial curiosity about data entry introduced them to the possibilities within the technology field.

That interest grew during a summer internship with the networking team at a local company. Although they entered the experience with limited technical knowledge, the opportunity introduced them to new skills and helped solidify their decision to pursue Computer Science.

Now a senior at Millersville University, Eman continues building their knowledge and recently earned their CompTIA Data+ certification, expanding their technical qualifications beyond the classroom. This certification exemplifies Eman’s skills in applying concepts to companies and teams.

Their educational journey has not been without challenges. Entering college with limited technical experience meant navigating demanding coursework while developing foundational skills.

Rather than allowing those challenges to discourage them, Eman sought additional academic support through tutoring and independently explored opportunities to strengthen their abilities.

“This pushed me to not only be persistent in getting academic assistance, like going to tutoring, but to also learn and diversify my skills outside of school,” they shared.

Their experience reflects an important lesson for young people: asking for help is not a weakness, but an opportunity to learn, grow, and build confidence.

From Volunteer to Communications Data Intern

Eman’s connection to Touchstone Foundation began through family. Their sister, who previously interned with the organization, shared an opportunity encouraging individuals with different professional skills to volunteer.

Interested in contributing their technical knowledge, Eman applied to become an IT volunteer. That experience eventually led to their current position as Communications Data Intern, allowing them to expand upon their previous work while gaining additional professional experience.

Through this internship, Eman hopes to sharpen their technical abilities, strengthen their professional skill set, and contribute to projects that support the Foundation’s long-term operations.

“I hope to sharpen and expand my professional skillset, while helping make a positive impact in my community,” they shared.

Although their work may take place behind the scenes, technology and data play important roles in helping nonprofit organizations communicate effectively, strengthen operations, and connect community members with meaningful resources.

For Eman, the opportunity demonstrates how technical skills can contribute to a mission centered on people.

Understanding the Pressures Young People Face

While pursuing a career in technology, Eman also recognizes the importance of supporting youth mental wellness, particularly when young people face academic pressure, uncertainty, and expectations about their futures.

Drawing from their own experiences as a student, they understand how challenging coursework and the fear of disappointing others can contribute to stress and feelings of discouragement.

They believe young people need opportunities to recognize that difficult experiences do not define their worth or determine what their futures will become.

Their perspective emphasizes the importance of supportive relationships, self-advocacy, and helping young people recognize that they do not have to navigate challenges alone.

“I am most passionate about helping the youth know that they aren’t alone, that they are cared for, and that there are resources to help them if they need it.”

Beyond Technology: Finding Meaning Through Literature

Outside of their studies and professional interests, Eman has a passion for literature, language, and storytelling.

Although they are pursuing a technical career, AP English was their favorite class in high school, where they developed an appreciation for analyzing stories and exploring the emotions and experiences behind written words.

One book that left an impression was The Catcher in the Rye. While they did not connect with every aspect of the novel, they appreciated its exploration of growing older, uncertainty, and the desire to protect those we care about.

For Eman, these themes reflect how our perspectives change as we gain experience and grow more confident navigating life’s challenges.

“Sometimes in life you find yourself feeling the same way, and then, as time goes on, you find yourself older and realizing that things aren’t as scary as younger-you thought. Words can be wonders.”

Their appreciation for storytelling offers another perspective on communication and connection. Whether through technology, data, or written words, information has the power to help people understand their experiences and recognize possibilities beyond their immediate circumstances.

Bringing Technology and Purpose Together

We are excited to welcome Eman to Touchstone Foundation and look forward to the skills, curiosity, and perspective they bring to our team.

As they continue pursuing their Computer Science degree and developing their professional experience, their journey demonstrates how persistence, curiosity, and a willingness to seek support can create opportunities for personal and professional growth.

Through their work as a Communications Data Intern, Eman will help strengthen the systems supporting our mission while contributing to a community where young people feel heard, valued, and reminded that their futures hold possibilities beyond the challenges they face today.