As the semester kicks off, students are eager and excited to be back on campus. Many new and returning faces are adjusting back to university life after different experiences over the summer. Inside Coates Library and outside on the main campus, students were asked what their summer jobs and internships were like.

Ellie Gunnin, sophomore human communication major
What did you do as an intern at the Zach Theatre?
“I was an administration intern where I helped the kids that came in, did spreadsheet and computer work and helped wherever needed. I realized that I have more of a preference of work environment over the actual job. I really grew a lot there and enjoyed my time.”
Did your internship solidify your decision or help you decide on what you want to do moving forward in your career path?
“It taught me that business can also be integrated with fine arts which I really liked to see. It made me realize that in my future I could still choose an office job but still feel creative as well.”

Sophie Lawrence, junior biology major
What did you do during your internship?
“I ran pregnancy tests, sat in during ultrasounds, delivered patient information to patients and worked in the clinic wherever I could.”
Who was the coolest person you met, if any? Any new friends/mentors?
“There was a staff nurse named Destiny who I worked with one day from 9 a.m. – 8 p.m. and I would not have gotten through the whole day without her. She was there with me all day long supporting me.”
Do you know what you want to do now after this internship?
“Yes! I want to go into reproductive health.”

Ximena Ibarra, senior English major
What was the biggest takeaway from your experience?
“I spent two months interviewing authors, asking them questions, making posters and working on papers with professors. The requirements of the program were very interesting and taught me a lot.”
Who was a mentor for you?
“The director of the Latino Cultural Center really helped me and gave me guidance. She helped me get books in order and get in contact with different authors.”
Did this help you figure out what you want to do post grad?
“The experience I had over the summer helped me gain more options for graduate school and gave me a good overview of what research I would like to do in graduate school. I think it was a really beneficial experience for me.”

Cole Ashley, first-year accounting major
What did you do as a camp counselor?
“I was working five days a week with kids from all different ages, mainly 8-10 year olds.”
What did you learn?
“I had to wake up early every single morning which pushed me a lot. I learned a lot about having more patience and that a lot of kids don’t listen.”
Who was your favorite camper?
“There was this little kid named Kai and he was at camp every week and was always so sweet and excited to be there.”