Internship Experience Reveals Passion for Service

Jess on site, visiting with our United Way’s partner agency,

Brockton Church and Community After School Program

          The word “work” often has a bit of a stigma attached to it. It is associated with responsibilities; not necessarily things we want to do, but rather things we must do out of obligation. As I draw closer and closer to my graduation from Stonehill College, I have been thinking a lot about how the word “work” will soon change its meaning in my life. I will be going from homework, class work, and group work…to REAL work. Seeking a full-time job and pursuing a career path. Things are going to be different for me from now on.

            My experience as a marketing intern at United Way of Greater Plymouth County has changed the way I view the word work. I discovered that it is possible to find a career path where your work will bring you enjoyment every day. It has been an absolute pleasure to work with everyone here in the Brockton office, surrounded people who love their job.

Since beginning my internship in January, my duties have included writing articles for the United Times newsletter, visiting and interviewing our partner agencies, creating video content for our YouTube channel and keeping our social media outlets up to date. I have most enjoyed being able to meet and form relationships with people in the surrounding communities through site visits with partner agencies and events such as the Credit for Life Fair. It has been fun to have such an interactive internship experience that has allowed me to meet so many different people.

Interning with our United Way has opened me up to a whole new world. I have really found my place in the non-profit sector. Working in the non-profit sector is something that I not only really enjoy, but it is something I now feel called to do. It is my hope that from this point on, any occupation I hold in the future will serve those in need and have meaning. As I move on from this internship, from college and into the real world, I am feeling extremely blessed. I am thankful for having had the opportunity to be a part of such a wonderful organization and for an experience that has opened up my eyes to a newly discovered passion for serving others.

- Jess Zaniewski, Marketing Intern