Never too early to intern

Connor Mart was ahead of the game when hunting for an internship, seeking out an opportunity his sophomore year at Bloomsburg University rather than waiting until his senior year. And in the process, he made history.

This fall the international business major is interning at the Northern Columbia Community and Cultural Center (N4Cs) in Benton. He happens to be the nonprofit organization’s first-ever intern.

“I’ve learned how a nonprofit organization operates and how much hard work it takes to run a nonprofit service,” Mart said. “I’m also learning a lot about marketing in general and how to use social media to enhance it.”

Connor found the internship opportunity through Lisa Olander, student engagement coordinator with the Office of Alumni and Professional Engagement — which consults, educates and collaborates with the BU campus community, alumni and organizational partners to develop students into professionally competent alumni in support of lifelong engagement.

“Lisa actually told me how early I’m doing an internship in my college career will benefit me a lot,” Mart said. “I wanted to see what the real-life workforce was like. This internship has helped me figure out what direct line of work I want to do after my time here at Bloomsburg.“

For him, N4Cs was great fit since it was looking for a business intern, specifically marketing. The center provides activities, classes, and various events throughout the year for the small local community, just north of Bloomsburg. Among its popular activities include hosting a rotating art exhibit for local artists throughout the year, various health and wellness programs such as yoga, sit n’ fit and after school youth programs.

“A normal day in the office consists of coming up with new ideas for events and programs,” said Mart, adding he took over the center’s Facebook page and recently expand its social media presence with a new Instagram account. “I’m helping out with anything that deals with marketing and advertising.”

His biggest assignment: the center’s Fall Fundraiser Gala on Saturday, Oct. 26.

The gala is the center’s its largest fundraising event of the year. Mart is doing his part by promoting it on social media. Among the featured offerings, he said, include a catered dinner by the Old Filling Station and live entertainment.

"Overall, this internship is a great way to get your feet in the water,” Mart said. “I can honestly say it’s been very fun.”