bmatthews.jpg Barry Matthews The Washington Center Internships program is a wonderful opportunity for students and has proven to be very beneficial to me. My internship with the U.S. Small Business Administration had provided me great experience and exposure to the work environment within a government agency. As a result of this internship, I am becoming more confident as a professional. I know this will be invaluable as I pursue a career upon the completion of my Finance degree. rfischer.jpg Rick Fischer, Ph.D., Journalism Internships have been recommended by the Commission on Public Relations Education for years. A school can't establish a PRSSA student chapter unless an internship is part of the core curriculum. Maybe they know something about internships that we should pay attention to. Internships bridge the classroom experience with the applied world. It builds the support network so necessary for that first job. Whether you take it for credit or just do it on your own, just do it. sgause.jpg Steven Gause My experience in Washington DC was one unparalleled to any other--the life lessons, professional skills, and friends I made in a few short weeks will remain with me forever. The combination of my internships, The Washington Center's events and lectures, my academic course, civic engagement project, and the overall culture of Washington, DC all contributed to me gaining knowledge about much of the world that previously I was not exposed to. Similarly, The Washington Center has also contributed to my personal and professional growth. For this, I am most appreciative. Through hands on learning, I have gained understanding here that could not be taught in any textbook. Because of this, I am now equipped with all the tools I need to be successful and secure the career of my dreams. littlejohn.jpg Cary Littlejohn "My internship at Baldwin, Molina & Escoto, Attorneys at Law in Washington, D. C. was a great experience. I consider it a defining moment in not only my educational career but also my life in general. Spending time day in and day out in a courtroom was an amazing experience. The best novelists would have had trouble coming up with some of the cases I observed, and it was almost surreal to be part of the action as a 20-year-old college student. It was a great feeling to know that I impacted people's lives and helped fight for them when their freedom was on the line." mckinney.jpg Stephanie McKinney During the time at my internship I have learned how things work in a facility such as Case Management Inc. I started off shadowing and learning from my Field Supervisor, but now I am also more involved and hands on with the patients. I have learned that the duties of a case manager go beyond the Case Management facility itself. I am managing children to adolescents and this means not only do you work with the children but also with the parents. This could mean that in addition to having a session with the parent and child you may also monitor the child at school, follow up with the teachers and do visits in the home to monitor the environment and parent-child-sibling interaction. Being an intern I have already learned so much that will definitely help me when I become a Medical Case Manager. bnichols.jpg Broderick Nichols Internships for our paralegal students have been an invaluable feature for students seeking to put their academic training into practice and to learn more about the day-to-day operations of a law office. An internship provides an opportunity for a student to determine whether or not a particular firm or area of law would be of interest for the long term. Moreover, an internship enables a firm to informally interview an intern over a period of time by being able to assess the character, ability, and personality of the intern. Over the last several years, dozens of paralegal students have been offered jobs prior to or soon after completion of their internships with law firms who served as their internship hosts. That's real value! youthvillages.jpg Youth Villages When we hire recent college graduates at Youth Villages it is important that they have experience in the social service field, immediately setting them apart from other candidates. Our internships give students hands-on experience while opening the door for future career opportunities within our organization. Former Youth Villages interns are given priority when being considered for employment because they have the foundational knowledge of our programs. Throughout many of our locations we offer fall and spring internships for credit and a paid summer internship program. Our paid summer internship program here in Memphis brings students from all over the country- combining hands-on experience with an amazing opportunity to meet new people! If you are looking for a challenging and exciting opportunity to make a difference in the lives of youth then apply online today at www.youthvillages.org/internships.aspx. cstreet.jpg Courtney Street In my internship at United Way of the Mid-South, I successfully organized an appreciation celebration for the volunteers of a United Way of the Mid-South Program. From start to finish, some of my duties included securing the venue, designing, printing and mailing invitations, menu selection, and ordering award gifts. I relied on past experience and knowledge gained in the classroom as well as utilizing the help offered from other employees. huddleston.jpg Donna D. Huddleston I have found that internships offer students invaluable networking opportunities and potential employment opportunities, as well as functioning as impressive additions to their resumes. Although many of our majors have general work experience, for most students these internships represent their first step into their professional careers, and afford students the chance to participate in the real world, not just theoretical class discussions or unrealistic TV representations of the Criminal Justice field. huffstetler.jpg Lisa Huffstetler I am the intern coordinator for the Department of Political Science. One of the largest programs we offer is the internship program with the Tennessee State Legislature. We send 16-20 students to Nashville during the spring semester where they are assigned to either a legislator or a committee and they spend the entire semester there learning about the legislative process. Virtually every intern will tell you it is a life changing experience, one of the best of their college careers. This program is good for students of all majors, not just political science. Anyone interested in politics will enjoy this experience! levy.jpg Dr. Marian Levy The Master of Public Health (MPH) program integrates the academic study of public health theory with principles of public health practice in order to prevent disease, promote healthy lifestyles, and protect the community. In accordance with national accreditation standards, our MPH students spend 240 contact hours in a practicum (internship) experience. The Memphis and Shelby County Health Department serves as the primary location for MPH students practicum. Students have gained valuable experience working directly with top administrators and health officers on projects related to HIV prevention, breastfeeding, immunization, TB control, community health promotion, and emergency preparedness. The practicum provides graduate students the opportunity to apply academic concepts and models learned in the classroom to the real world of public health practice. It also provides relevant experience that serves as a foundation for their public health careers. smithnephew.jpg Smith & Nephew Smith & Nephew Orthopaedics is a global medical device company that develops, manufactures, and markets a wide range of joint replacement, fracture fixation, and deformity correction products. The purpose of the Smith & Nephew Orthopaedics Research Internship and Co-op Program is to provide opportunities for engineering students to work with industry prior to entering the workforce full time. Engineering interns learn valuable skills by applying their education to industry projects. The Company gains additional help for critical projects and the opportunity to evaluate firsthand potential future job candidates. To view available positions and apply online, visit the Orthopaedic Research careers heading at www.smith-nephew.com. hetherington.jpg Robert A. Hetherington Preparing for a career in the performing arts can take many paths, but the one thing all roads have in common is the difficulty of the profession and the uncertainty of regular employment in it. The internship offers an excellent opportunity for exposure to artistic vision and professional practices of colleagues in other settings. In addition, acquisition of an internship position is good preparation for the experience of finding work in the profession after graduation and is an effective means of establishing professional career connections. pietrzyk.jpg Andrea Pietrzyk Entering my senior year as an International Studies major, I wanted a unique learning experience that would both reinforce what I had already learned and teach me to apply it beyond the classroom. Through the Washington Center for Internships and Academic Seminars, I obtained an internship with Bridging Nations, a think-tank dealing with US-India relations. Through the many tasks I was given - interviewing South Asia experts, listening to White House conference calls, setting up panel discussions on terrorism - I more than accomplished my goals. My semester as an intern was certainly a turning point in my studies, as I learned how to transition myself from student to professional. sharp.jpg Heather Sharp The Washington Center provides incredible opportunities to students and afforded me a life changing internship experience. As an intern at the American Council of Young Political Leaders, I was able to improve my professional and interpersonal skills, while meeting new people and introducing them to the American political landscape. The combination of my internship, my TWC activities, and my new acquaintences created an atmosphere that enabled me to gain confidence and direction for my studies, my career, and my life. unitedway1.jpg United Way of the Mid-South United Way of the Mid-South is proud to be a training ground for the Nonprofit leaders of tomorrow. Nonprofit organizations have a growing need for experienced and knowledgeable staff to ensure that our work continues to effectively impact the lives of those we serve. Hosting an intern brings a generation of fresh ideas and innovative thinking to our work while sharing our knowledge of field. We can learn and grow together. tokumabua.jpg Psychology INSPIRE Psychology INSPIRE is a 6-week summer internship program that is sponsored by the Department of Psychology at the University of Memphis. The overall goal of the program is to increase the number of individuals from underrepresented populations who pursue degrees and careers in the social and behavioral sciences. Paired with a graduate student and workingwith a faculty mentor, Psychology INSPIRE Interns are involved in lab and research experiences, science lectures, academic and professional development activities, mentoring, and networking experiences. For more information about the Psychology INSPIRE program, contact Dr. Theresa Okwumabua at Tokwumab@memphis.edu (901-678-3677) or visit the webpage at http://psyc.memphis.edu/inspire/ overview.shtml. exchangeclub11.jpg Exchange Club Family Center "I completed several months of internship experience at the Exchange Club Family Center as part of my degree requirements for a Master of Science in Counseling. The learning experience proved invaluable. I was given numerous responsibilities, but felt comfortable to approach any of the staff for help when I needed it. The staff made a point to show their appreciation for the interns' hard work. This agency accepts a large number of interns each semester, so between the staff and other interns I was provided with a great deal of personal and professional support during these crucial learning experiences. I was also able to use my Spanish language skills to provide treatment services for Latino women and children, both individually and in a group setting. I developed strong clinical skills during opportunities such as co-facilitating a support group for female survivors of domestic violence, conducting assessments of domestic violence offenders, and providing play therapy for young children. Not only did my internship experience prepare me for the transition from school to work, but it also provided me with a job opportunity after graduation. This summer I will become an Exchange Club counselor in the domestic violence assessment program!" Jennifer P - Masters student in counseling and community agency/CEPR pq.jpg Merchandising Each semester I serve as faculty supervisor for about 20 interns. The hands-on experience gained through internships coupled with professional development and networking opportunities prepares interns to make valuable career decisions as they work to achieve their personal and professional goals. Internships become a win-win situation for firms desiring committed and goal-oriented employees, for interns seeking career path employment and advancement, and for educational institutions wanting a culminating experience in the academic discipline resulting in business and community partnerships. churchhealthcenter1.jpg Church Health Center Dr. Scott Morris, a family practice physician and ordained United Methodist minister, founded the Church Health Center in 1987 to provide quality, affordable healthcare for working uninsured people and their families. The Church Health Center offers internships to students who want to be part of a ministry that cares for the whole person - body and spirit. In addition to the Center's Clinic, Hope & Healing, Faith Community Ministries and the MEMPHIS Plan, internship opportunities are also available in not-for-profit administrative areas including public affairs, fundraising and development. Find application form at: internships@churchhealthcenter.org or mail written request to Internship Program, Church Health Center, 1210 Peabody Avenue, Memphis, TN 38104. zava.jpg Emily Zava My internship in the Office of the Attorney General for the District of Columbia definitely helped me grow not only as a student, but also as a person. I learned to be responsible for my own being in a new city. I experienced the hustle and bustle of our nation's capital. I studied subjects I never would have at school. Most importantly, I met many people who have influenced my next steps in life. This experience was exactly what I needed in order to gain self-awareness and an insight of life in general, as well as my career goals. kevinpark.jpg Kevin Park Kevin Park is a junior majoring in hospitality and resort management in the Kemmons Wilson School of Hospitality & Resort Management. He recently completed an internship at Walt Disney's Epcot Center and said: "Not only do you work for a Fortune 500 company, you also get to meet people from across the world. My roommate was from Brazil and a lot of my friends were from China." Park is open to another internship at Disney. "An internship is a really, really good way to not only get your foot in the door, but to develop more personal and professional skills." christensen.jpg Erica Christensen During the Spring 2009 semester, Erica Christensen completed her internship with the Air Policy Office at the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). "I was so lucky with my placement because I was able to experience the changes made by President Obama and witness the growing developments of climate policy. I learned more than I could have imagined and made great connections." She has also completed an unpaid internship with a political campaign and had a paid summer position with the Southern Alliance for Clean Energy. Christensen plans to attend graduate school for global environmental policy or sustainability. mollywatson.jpg Molly Allen Watson Molly Allen Watson spent her summer at Colorado's Central City Opera Company. As an intern, Watson made props and furniture. She was most proud of a spinning wheel. "I actually made it work. That was my hardest project." Watson recommends internships. "It's imperative. It's so different from an educational environment. The University should require it for all majors. It's application in the real world." macaluso.jpg Meredith Leigh Macaluso As an Organizational Leadership student, my internship with The Crescent Club definitely improved my skills of working together with other people to accomplish a goal. I have improved my ability to speak in front of others. My internship provided an opportunity for me to be involved in the organization of events that were being held at The Crescent Club. I was trusted with getting everything set up and making sure the event went smoothly. I loved this experience and learned an incredible amount that will help me with all future careers. nollner.jpg Christian Nollner Christian Nollner (BPS '08) successfully completed an unpaid internship at Vera Wang Maids, the bridesmaid showroom and companion to the Vera Wang Bridal House in New York City. She said, "I've always been interested in fashion. My first job was at a retail store." Nollner's eight week internship helped her better understand the fashion industry and the company. She is now a bridal stylist at the Vera Wang Bridal House. "I think it showed a lot of courage to actually move up to New York City from Memphis to do an unpaid internship. They didn't offer housing or board for me. That was a little tough, but I think it spoke volumes." The internship provided the perfect springboard for Nollner to land a full time position with the company. cbeard.jpg Carrie Beard "The therapists at Therapy Hut have really helped me get a better understanding of how to work with patients who need help with everyday skills. They have let me be "hands-on" with the patients which will help me in my long-term goals to becoming more successful and have an early start in working with patients who need and receive therapy. I have learned how therapists evaluate patients and how they are able to help the patients according to their goals and their needs. I have particularly learned more about occupational therapy and how disorders have affected these children, as well as the therapists trying to overcome the problems." puryear.jpg Tiffany Puryear "Good reading strategies help students to read in a very efficient way. In order to improve TCAP scores and ensure that students gain full understanding of how the state test will be conducted, the staff at Southwest Elementary School allows their students to participate in a pretesting program. I suggested that the students be placed in small groups, which will allow the students to use the strategy of peer tutoring. This strategy allows students to discuss among themselves and understand from their peers. On the re-teach over half of the students scored proficient or advanced. I will continue to improve my teaching, listening, and observing skills during my internship experience. I will ask questions and research other strategies to assist when needed. I will do whatever it takes to assist students in becoming successful." bunn.jpg Alan Bunn Although he has held two previous marketing internships, Bunn acknowledges the excitement that he has for interning at a communications firm, a position that is certain to provide a very different experience from any position that he has held in the past. Sure to be a resume booster, Bunn says that he looks forward to attaining concrete work experience to complement the theory that he has learned in his academic courses. "Having the opportunity to spend an entire semester as an intern at a first-rate communications firm in Washington, D.C., while receiving academic credit for the experience is definitely one of the highlights of my college career," he said. graubman1.jpg Daniel Graubman "The opportunity to participate in The Washington Center Internship Program turned out to be one of the most memorable and influential experiences of my life thus far. During my internship with Global Centurion, I was introduced to all the major players in the anti-human trafficking movement locally and nationwide, including NGO leaders, faith-based groups, and government officials. I was selected to speak at the National Collegiate Honors Council Convention about civic engagement and human trafficking." ritajones.jpg Rita Jones "My internship was a very interesting and challenging experience. I had the opportunity to acquire knowledge of business and management principles that involved strategic planning, resource allocation, leadership skills and the coordination of people and resources. I also learned how to meet quality standards for services and evaluation of customer satisfaction in a daycare environment." suggs.jpg Leslie A. Suggs "During my internship at Tennessee Department of Children's Services, I felt like an educator, a leader, and a very special individual to be able to involve myself in such professional surroundings. I enjoyed the visits to schools, homes, and educational conferences. In my childcare center, I am now better prepared to make decisions and seek helpful resources for troubled children." triplett.jpg Tinieka D. Triplett "This experience has been rewarding and challenging. I did research regarding the revitalization of nonprofit organizations and strengthened my expertise in nonprofit development. Through this internship I have developed marketing skills, consultant abilities and growth in networking." eblum.jpg Emily Blum "As an intern at Lipman School, I planned and implemented activities and lesson plans designed to meet children's developmental needs. Based in part on my journal entries and observational data, I was able to develop a special relationship with each child based on trust and understanding. My interactions with children demonstrated the importance of positive reinforcement." mvogel.jpg Mary Vogel "While interning at the Exchange Club Family Center, I interacted with a diverse group of adults and children and really benefitted from working so closely with my supervisor. Although I went out of my comfort zone as I helped facilitate different programs, I believe the experience will greatly influence my future career." gouge.png Timothy Gouge "I am a senior majoring in Geography, with a minor in International Studies. My internship this past summer was at Oak Ridge National Lab near Knoxville, Tennessee. I had a remarkable experience, aiding a team that was working on a GIS/database project for a government agency. I was proud to represent the University of Memphis, and knowing that my work supported this great country of ours." bpboyd.jpg BreAnna Paige Boyd "I am currently interning at WMC-TV 5. I am grateful for each and every opportunity I get to shadow an anchor. In this field, it is all about networking. This internship allows me to work around professionals and log stories via internet. I have experienced live coverage in the news room, and out in the field. This internship is providing an advancement opportunity for my future." lwalkernew.jpg LaTanyia Walker "The MS degree in Policy Studies interested me because of my love of education. I want to be in an administrative level some day and I felt that this track would get me there. The professors have worked well with me and it has been rewarding. I want to start out teaching or in administration in a Community College so I am also working on my Community College certificate. I feel that through my studies here I will be able to enter the realm of Higher Education and begin to build a successful career." <a href="http://www.memphis.edu/lead/internships/latanyia-walker.htm">More</a> jbennett.jpg Jonathan Bennett "My experience in Washington has exceeded my wildest expectations in sharpening and furthering my academic development. As a research assistant, I co-authored two papers and worked with public and private sector leaders in the founding of SAGE-Strengthening America's Global Engagement-the first independent public diplomacy organization in the United States. The unique nature of my academic course-most embodied in the fact that it was actually taught in the headquarters of Amnesty International-has made it a valuable experience as well." gajohnson.jpg Gabrielle Johnson "Gaining a career in the broadcasting field is very competitive in this day and age; so having experience in the field, along with a major in communications, is very important. With help from the U of M career services department I was able to obtain an internship with WREG-news channel 3. Through this internship I will learn hands-on the different aspects of news media (on camera and off). Learning these aspects of the business can produce great success in my career later on in life. I am very blessed to have this opportunity and to live up to the tiger motto. Dreamers.Thinkers.Doers." gmamma.jpg Glyn Helen Vandenberg "I'm currently a senior Hospitality and Resort Management major. During my Junior year, I successfully completed a position as a marketing intern with the Brooks Museum's marketing department. It was an incredible chance to view the inside workings of a non-profit museum and get to know about and be involved with the events they presented. This past summer, I was afforded the opportunity to participate in an amazing internship program through the University of Memphis. This program, called The Washington Center for Internships (TWC), set me up with multiple internships from which I was able to choose which offer I wanted to accept based on my interests. TWC set up all the students participating in an apartment in Washington, D.C. where we either walked to or commuted via Metro to work during the business week and we were left to our own musings after work hours and on the weekends! I chose to work as a development intern with the Trust for the National Mall and gained invaluable experience inside a small but powerful non-profit, working with politicians, business leaders, and national planners. With one year left until I graduate, I'm trying to gain access to as many opportunities as are still available to me. Recently I was awarded an internship in Vermont at the Ascutney Mountain Resort, an Orange Lake Resort. I will be rotating throughout all aspects of the hotel operation and enjoying my time in the mountains!"