There is just one full-time staff member who oversees video production for the national network of organizations that is connected to The Public Interest Network, so I had the opportunity to work with her directly. This meant that all of the work I did was valuable and rewarding. There was no busy work, and as a result my video editing skills became much stronger during my internship. My supervisor was also one of the sweetest people I have ever met, and I was so grateful to work with her.
What I wish was different
The only thing I wish was different was the amount of filming opportunities. Towards the end of the summer, I began filming other interns to put together a promotion for PennEnvironment's intern program, but that was the only filming did that summer as The Public Interest Network typically hires independent cinematographers. However, I understand that it's really more practical that way (especially when operating on a national scale) and valued the opportunity to do even a little bit of filming.
Advice
The more you put into it, the more you will get out of it. All of the work you do is benefiting campaigns that advocate for human and environmental health, so it is naturally rewarding. However, it can be even more rewarding if you work your hardest and really try to learn from the experience. Although it is an unpaid position, my growth as an editor and the knowledge that I was helping to advocate for causes I care about made it totally worthwhile.
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Web Project Intern
June - August 2017 • Chicago, IL
What I liked
I gained so much knowledge about organizations that are working for the common good, in addition to experience working on a variety of web-based projects included modifying site code, designing graphics, and creating project management spreadsheets.
What I wish was different
I wish I was able to meet with other members of the web team (who are based in different cities throughout the US) to better understand a variety of aspects of the team.
Advice
Ask questions. Many times I accepted a task thinking I'd be able to figure it out all on my own, but I quickly found that asking for assistance or clarification was a more effective way of problem-solving.
