Helie-Tu Vu contributed her technical skills in graphic design and content creation to support the promotion of student basic needs resources on campus.
How did you get your internship?
I stumbled upon the internship opportunity through a post on the University of Arizona’s Campus Pantry's Instagram story. Being a freshman eager to dive into various aspects of college life, I was drawn to opportunities that allowed me to contribute meaningfully to the community. The Basic Needs Internship seemed like the perfect fit, as it offered a chance to refine my graphic design skills while expanding my expertise in media video content creation, aligning with my desire to support the well-being of our school's staff and students.
Why did you choose this internship?
I chose the internship at Basic Needs Coalition because I was deeply moved by its profound impact on our school community. Witnessing the organization's pivotal role in providing essential support to students and staff members fueled my desire to contribute further. This internship provided an ideal platform for me to combine my passion for creative expression with my commitment to community service, allowing me to make a tangible difference in the lives of others.
What kind of work did you do throughout your internship experience?
Throughout my internship, I focused on media content creation and graphic design to support the coalition's communication campaign. I conducted research on college students' basic needs and available resources, engaged with coalition stakeholders, and played a significant role in co-designing a comprehensive communication campaign. Additionally, I worked on tasks like crafting professional emails, adapting presentations for specific audiences, operating the Designing for Dignity contest for students and facilitating workshops for peers and faculty members.
What new skills did you develop in this internship?
During my internship, I practiced my skills in graphic design, media video content creation, and professional communication. I also developed expertise in conducting research, collaborating effectively with team members, and adapting to the workload of a professional setting. These skills are highly transferable and will undoubtedly benefit me in future endeavors.
What was your favorite part of your internship?
My favorite part of the internship was hearing fellow students share their struggles accessing basic needs resources, reinforcing the importance of our work. Seeing our efforts directly impact peers was profoundly meaningful, motivating me to put even more effort into our advocacy. Each conversation underscored the necessity of addressing these challenges, solidifying my commitment. It reminded me of the power of empathy and collaborative efforts for a supportive campus community.
What did you find challenging about your internship?
The most challenging aspect of my internship was adjusting to the organization's workload and crafting language suitable for a university setting. However, these challenges taught me valuable lessons in time management, adaptability, and effective communication. I learned the importance of seeking support when needed and approaching tasks with patience and resilience.
What advice do you have for other students as they search for and begin their internship?
My advice to other students is to be proactive in seeking out internship opportunities that align with their interests and career goals. Don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and apply for positions that may seem challenging.
Once you begin your internship, approach each task with enthusiasm and a willingness to learn. Be open to feedback, seek out mentorship opportunities, and don't be discouraged by setbacks. Remember that internships are valuable learning experiences that can help you grow both personally and professionally.