Brandon Pugh studied Community Leadership and Civic Engagement at NIU with a minor in Communication Studies. He completed internships with the Egyptian Theatre in Fall 2015 and Spring 2016. In this role, he learned more about the day-to-day operations of a nonprofit theatre and developed marketing strategies to promote their events.

Q: What was the biggest benefit and/or the best part of your internship experience?

Brandon: Being that the Egyptian Theatre has such a small staff, I was able to get my hands dirty doing many different things. The most beneficial part was being able to attend all of the public events. Attending all of the public events meant I would either scan tickets, sell concessions, or usher patrons to their seats. Each task taught me something different about customer service and serving my community. Performing the role as ticket scanner in particular, I was able to ensure patrons coming into the theatre were greeted with a friendly smile and felt welcome. It was important to me because I was creating a brand for this beautiful, historic theatre. 

Q: In your opinion, why should students pursue internship opportunities?

Brandon: Internship opportunities open doors for other opportunities. Internships offer an opportunity for hands-on experiences that you cannot get in the classroom. Even if an internship is not in the field you are pursuing, the networking and customer service skills one can gain from such an experience is incomparable.

Q: What are you up to now?

Brandon: After graduating in May 2016, I continued working part-time in retail until August 2016. In August, I started working part-time at the Egyptian as the House Manager. I worked both retail and at the Egyptian until April 2017. As of May 1, I am officially the Event Services Director and am full-time. I am elated to work in the same community from which I graduated and that has offered me so many wonderful opportunities.

Q: Please share any additional comments you have about your internship experience. 

Brandon: Thank you to the Roberts Foundation! I was fortunate enough to be able to intern with the Egyptian Theatre for two semesters. The experience and knowledge I gained helps me in my day-to-day activities. I could not be more appreciative of the support they have given not only to me, but also to all other DCNP-NIU interns as well. Their support benefits not only the Egyptian Theatre, but also the entire community.