Alexandra participated in the Internship Program during the fall of 2018 and the summer of 2019. She majored in Communications with an emphasis in Media Studies and minored in Nonprofit & NGO Studies at Northern Illinois University.

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

Alexandra:  I experienced many benefits. First, I became a part of the community within DeKalb. At Glidden Homestead, I learned the history and significance of the area. DeKalb is not just a town of corn and NIU, but a place with a long history and families that worked to build the town they called home. At RAMP, I had invaluable experiences working with and advocating for those with special needs. It gave me a new insight I did not have. These are learning opportunities I would never have received in a class setting. During this time, I was able to see my impact on the community and the organizations that help build DeKalb into the town it is now. Not only was I able to develop my sense of community, but I developed my professional skills. Working with board members and general staff, gave me an insight into the professional sphere without becoming overwhelming. It dips your toes into the workforce with a great support system. Overall, this program benefited me professionally and my general sense of self.

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

Alexandra: I highly suggest all students take at least one semester to intern. Better yet, intern within your community. This will be invaluable to your professional growth. Classes provide great knowledge and critical skills, but an internship will allow you to flex these skills. You will work with different people than your typical classmates. It is also a wonderful resume builder. Many of my previous employers expressed their interest in my internship experience. It pushes you ahead of the game and shows potential employers your drive and motivation.

Q: What are you up to now?

Alexandra: Currently, I am working as a Team Lead within the company Dovenmuehle Mortgage. I quickly was able to work my way up with my past job experiences to begin a leadership position. This has been a great opportunity to flex my problem solving skills and quickly learn a new industry. I am hoping to continue to develop my skills and move my way into higher positions.

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

Alexandra: I would like to thank the Roberts Family Foundation for allowing me these experiences. To become a part of my community was an invaluable experience. I would likely not be in the current position I am in without my internship experiences. They pushed my comfort zones and showed the skills I did not know I had.

The Internship Program is a collaboration between the DeKalb County Nonprofit Partnership, the Center for Nonprofit Studies, and Career Services at Northern Illinois University, supported by the Douglas C. and Lynn M. Roberts Family Foundation.