Interning at Hope Clinic

As my second summer interning at Hope Clinic comes to a close, I wanted to reflect on my time here and the impact Hope Clinic has had in my life as a college student. As the marketing and social media intern, I don’t work directly with our clients. However, I know many of their stories (should they choose to share them), and have learned of the difficulties they face throughout their journey at Hope Clinic.

To work at a nonprofit like Hope Clinic has been a blessing, not only because it allowed me to expand upon my writing and marketing skills, but also because it pushed me to think outside of myself. In college, it’s easy to get caught up in the “bubble” of your college town – from the stresses of classes and assignments, to football games, parties, and movie nights with your friends. And while college is tough, my worries often seem incomparable to those of the women and men that walk through the doors of Hope Clinic.

A few things I’ve learned:

1. Cherish the people in your life.
   Your friends and family are most important. Maintain your relationships and appreciate them; call your best friend, your mom, your grandpa. These people support you in your best and your worst times.
2. Your job should be much more than just a means to an end.
   As I continue to search for what career I’d like to have after graduation, my internship at Hope Clinic has shown me that I want my future career to be an expression of my talents and interests. I want to face new problems that challenge my creativity, work with people I truly love to be around, and be in a field that makes me excited to wake up in the morning. At Hope Clinic, our mission to help women and families in need resonates with me and makes me feel that my work has a positive impact in the lives of others.
3. Look at the bigger picture.
   Most of the clients that walk through our doors face difficult road ahead. But for many, this road leads to joy – a new baby, a healthier relationship, a happier life. It’s helped me realize that no matter what we may be battling right now, faith helps us pull through. Life has its ups and downs, but we are never alone!

My time at Hope Clinic has proved valuable in so many ways. I cannot thank CEO Renee and my coworkers enough for making my time here so wonderful! I feel ready to take on the school year with a renewed perspective, a fuller heart, and of course, so much hope for what the future holds.