Maalik participated in the Internship Program during the fall of 2016 where he interned at Ellwood House Museum. He majored in Nonprofit & NGO Studies and minored in Professional Communications at Northern Illinois University.

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

Maalik: The biggest benefit of the internship experience was building the relationship with staff and the opportunity to learn the business first hand.

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

Maalik: Student should pursue internship opportunities to get on the job training skills to understand business procedures & processes to prepare for a professional career after college.

Q: What are you up to now?

Maalik: I am an entrepreneur with varied experiences in the urban planning and community development sector. I hold multiple roles, such as managing partner, director, and advisor, offering my expertise in various industries. I’m seeking certifications in the real estate & financial services field.

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

Maalik: Thank you to the Roberts Family Foundation for providing me with this wonderful experience. I really hope to continue working with the the program and supporting the success of our students.

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.