A Transformative Summer

Abby and me at the Farmers' Market.

Being able to intern with Hospitality House this summer has been an honor—not only have I made valuable connections and friendships through this program, but I have learned so much. I came into this internship thinking I was going to be able to help the clients, but over these past ten weeks, it has been talking and listening to the residents that made me grow so much as a human. From a sociological standpoint, being able to work with a vulnerable population has allowed me to recognize different and new perspectives, creating a new level of empathy and understanding. 

Working as a public relations intern with Shannon and Lizzie was very rewarding. Being able to create content that was geared toward engaging with our community, as well as helping on future events like their auction, has taught me so much. Learning the ins-and-outs of working in a non-profit showed me how special it is. It was something new every day, and being able to work with such kind and welcoming people at Hospitality House was very rewarding. The work was great, but the people made it; I am so grateful for the other coworkers there, my fellow interns, Lexi for teaching us so much, and the community and clients I would not have the opportunity to meet otherwise. 

I spent the majority of my internship at their office location, the Watauga Outreach and Housing Center, where I was able to learn the behind-the-scenes at a homeless shelter. From grant writing, applying for donations, or working on Canva and social media, to working at the Farmers’ Market with Abby and painting bathrooms in the shelter, I had so much fun learning and experiencing new things since I was surrounded by the best environment. I know I will take every skill I acquired into every future practice. 

While I have so many memorable and unforgettable experiences here, the summer unfortunately went by so quickly. While I may have made a small dent in some peoples’ lives here, they truly made such a difference in mine. I have learned so much that will affect both my professional and personal life, things I would not have gotten the chance to experience if I was not at Hospitality House.

My fellow interns—Shannon, Abby, and Lizzie—who made my summer so much fun!