Finding a summer internship isn’t easy, especially for those students majoring in things like creative writing and philosophy. But it is possible to find an internship within the arts, and a good internship at that. The News-Letter reached out to two upperclassmen who were able to make it happen.
Jesse Shuman
Class of 2017, Writing Seminars
Where did you work this summer and what was your role?
I worked at PEN America, an organization that works to advance literature and defend free expression. I was an editorial intern for their new journal for literary translation, Glossolalia. I helped edit, publish and distribute the second issue, “Women Writing Brazil,” which features an all-female cast of Brazilian writers writing in Portuguese. It dealt with topical issues such as ethnocide in the Amazon, political corruption and a rising feminist movement.
What was the work environment like?
The work environment is a mix of casual and fast-paced. There are always many simultaneous projects going on, and it can be hectic. I really enjoyed being around smart, well-read and experienced people, and being entrusted to complete crucial tasks.
What was a project you worked on and are proud of?
I taught myself how to make their website!
Did your experience influence your post-college goals?
Yes, despite being given pragmatic, often harsh insights into the publishing industry and writing careers, I decided that I definitely want to work with literature, writing and books.
What advice do you have for Hopkins students looking for interesting internships?
It’s so important to keep track of application windows and start early. Cast a wide net and follow up. Don’t be afraid to send cold emails inquiring about positions, or about seeming earnest. Do your research so you’re prepared for any question they might ask you. Have ideas and opinions that are honest and insightful.
Allison Schingel
Class of 2017, Writing Seminars and History
Where did you work this summer and what was your role?
I worked at Art with a Heart (AWAH) through the Center for Social Concern’s Community Impact Internships Program. I worked as a teaching assistant for the summer job program, which meant that I helped the workers in the program (15- to 25-year-olds seeking job experience and workforce opportunities) complete specific art projects. I also helped design sample products to be used as examples for the workers and created some products to be sold in AWAH’s store.
What was the work environment like?
It was a very busy workspace. Because we were hosting the job program workers in the AWAH store (HeARTwares, in Hampden), the space was often crowded. I think that, in the best moments, there was a sense of camaraderie between all the workers. We all quickly became attached to and proud of the products we were creating. It was just a really creative environment.
What was a project you worked on and are proud of?
I think I was most proud of my contributions to the day-to-day lessons. I was in a teaching role; support and guidance was my main project. It was a lot of fun to interact with the different workers, and I think I helped them to see the process of making art as something that can be rejuvenating.
Did your experience influence your post-college goals?
My internship really stressed the importance of the community. I left the summer feeling really connected to Baltimore and wanting to continue the connections I’ve made in this city. I am also more motivated to explore how the arts can be used to empower members of the community.
What advice do you have for Hopkins students looking for interesting internships?
I found my internship through the Center for Social Concern, and I know that there are other opportunities offered through various Hopkins organizations. I’d recommend looking around departments or programs or groups that you love and see what comes up.
Pros to a Summer Internship?
Find Out What You Like!
For students unsure of what careers they want to pursue, an internship is a great way to find out what you might enjoy in life. It’s also a good idea for those who think they’re set on an occupation to find out if they really like that field.
Great Resume Builder!
Internships are a great boon to anyone who’s trying to build up a resume, whether that be for grad school, medical school or for those entering the workforce after Hopkins, internships look good!
Cons to a Summer Internship?
Less Time to Yourself
Internships can be time-sinks, and for some people the summer is necessary as a time to reload before the ventures of the fall. Internships aren’t for everyone.
The Internship Might Not Be For You
Just because it seems like something you would like, doesn’t mean that an internship within your field of study has to be your cup of tea. There’s always a chance that it could be a bad experience.
The Labor May Not Be Equal to the Reward
There’s been recent controversy with some people within the internship field stating that internships are unpaid labor with less than stellar returns.
On Campus Resources for Internships
1. Check out your major’s office and the bulletin boards around the area.
2. Talk to clubs and professional groups, for example the National Society of Black Engineers, to see what resources they might have.
3. Ask professors if they need any research help. If they don’t, they might put you in contact with someone who does.
4. Talk to upperclassmen and see if they can put you in contact with someone for which they used to intern. Their recommendation and willingness to reach out could mean a lot.
5. Go to the Career Resource Center.
6. Tap into your personal network, like recent graduates and other alumni you know personally.
7. Use your laptop. There are tons of resources online. You might need to paw through pages upon pages of search results, but it could yield you something good.
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