Each year, Penn State’s Division of Development and Alumni Relations (DDAR) hosts the DDAR Summer Internship Program, an eleven-week experience for students or recent graduates interested in learning about a career in fundraising and nonprofit work. The program immerses interns in the everyday workings of a development office at Penn State and enables students to understand philanthropy at a higher education institution through firsthand experience. By coupling hands-on work with traditional classroom learning, the internship is designed to provide students with the necessary knowledge and skills found within the field of higher education development or nonprofit work.
This year, nine students were selected to participate in the program. The cohort–comprising students in varying majors and with a wide range of career aspirations–all had one thing in common: a curiosity to learn more about philanthropy at Penn State. To highlight their personal stories and share their experiences of the internship program, we asked Haley Parker, this year’s Office of Annual Giving DDAR Summer Intern, to write a special edition of the Volunteer Spotlight featuring the 2024 DDAR Summer Interns.
Jenna Baker
Jenna Baker is a rising fourth-year student at Penn State majoring in political science and public relations. For Jenna, choosing Penn State felt like an obvious decision, given that both her mother and brother are alumni. This family connection created a natural path for her to become part of the Penn State community.
Philanthropy holds a special place in Jenna’s heart, particularly through her involvement with THON™. As a captain for the past two years, Jenna has been deeply immersed in the world of charitable giving and witnessed the profound impact that fundraising efforts can have on Four Diamonds families. This experience has not only broadened her perspective on philanthropy, but also ignited a passion that she was eager to explore in a career-oriented—as opposed to volunteer-setting. The DDAR internship presented the perfect opportunity for Jenna to blend her passion for philanthropy with professional development. She was drawn to the program’s emphasis on individuality and independence, appreciating how interns are placed in separate units and work environments. This structure has allowed Jenna to develop her own relationship with development work and explore her professional interests more deeply.
While Jenna spends much of her time working with her unit, the College of Medicine, in Hershey, she particularly looks forward to the Friday sessions in State College. These sessions have become a highlight of her internship experience, offering a mix of exciting activities like touring Beaver Stadium and valuable professional development opportunities. Through these sessions, Jenna has gained more confidence and feels better prepared to navigate the job market after graduation.
Perhaps the most surprising aspect of the internship for Jenna has been discovering her enjoyment of the office environment. Prior to this experience, the idea of working in an office post-graduation seemed daunting. However, after adjusting to the work and identifying what she enjoys within the workplace, Jenna now finds herself genuinely looking forward to her time in the office each day. She values the camaraderie with her coworkers and sharing laughs while simultaneously developing her professional skills.
This internship has not only expanded Jenna’s understanding of philanthropy beyond her THON experience but has also given her valuable insights into the professional world. It has helped her narrow down her potential career paths and boosted her self-confidence as she approaches graduation. Through this experience, Jenna has learned more about herself, her work style, and the type of environment in which she thrives.
Emmanuel (Manny) Winikur
Manny Winikur is a rising fourth-year student at Penn State majoring in psychology. His journey to Penn State was influenced by family members who had attended the University, but it was his personal visit to the campus that sealed the deal. Manny was captivated by the seemingly endless opportunities Penn State offers its students ultimately convincing him to make it his academic home.
Manny’s decision to join the DDAR Internship Program stemmed from his passion for Penn State and his desire to gain direct experience in the offices that support much of the University’s operations. The internship has provided him with a deep-dive into the inner workings of the institution, revealing the crucial role that philanthropy plays in sustaining and advancing Penn State’s mission.
One of the aspects Manny has enjoyed most is the broad exposure to different areas of the University. Working in an office with sixteen colleagues and participating in Friday meetings with University leaders from various disciplines has given him a comprehensive view of the institution that he might not have gained otherwise. This wide range of experiences and knowledge has significantly expanded his understanding of Penn State.
Through this internship, Manny has learned about himself. He’s identified the types of tasks he excels at and enjoys as well as his preferred working style. Manny particularly appreciates the trust his office has placed in him, allowing him to complete tasks in a manner that best suits his style, an attribute he now recognizes as important for his future career choices.
Perhaps the most surprising aspect of the internship for Manny has been the extent of the opportunities he’s been given. He’s had the chance to write an article published by Penn State and observe meetings with some of the University’s most experienced employees, privileges he recognizes are not commonly afforded to interns.
This internship has broadened Manny’s perspective on philanthropy at Penn State. He’s gained a deeper appreciation for how integral philanthropic efforts are to the University’s ability to maintain its standard of excellence. The internship has allowed him to see firsthand the impact of gifts and alumni support on various aspects of University life.
Malcolm (Mal) Mackenzie
Mal Mackenzie is a recent graduate of Penn State, having earned their BFA in acting with a minor in linguistics. Despite initially being hesitant about attending Penn State due to its perceived small-town atmosphere and proximity to their hometown of Pittsburgh, Mal’s perspective changed dramatically after auditioning for the acting program. The exceptional faculty within the School of Theater inspired them to stay, a decision they now cherish.
Mal’s participation in the University’s Presidential Leadership Academy led them to the DDAR Internship program, a choice influenced by their understanding of the crucial role fundraising plays in the arts and education industries in which they plan to build their career
During their internship with the Office of Foundation Relations, Mal found immense joy in the office’s unique position which allows involvement across nearly every unit of the University. As a naturally curious individual, they have relished the opportunity to explore research and programming across different colleges. Visits to labs and conversations with researchers have been particularly thrilling for Mal, satisfying their inner science enthusiast.
The internship has also provided Mal with valuable insights into their own working style. While they always considered themselves analytical, it wasn’t until engaging in discussions about strengths and work styles with their internship cohort that they realized the exceptional nature of their systematic thinking. This self-awareness has helped Mal identify how they can uniquely contribute to a team and pinpoint skills they’d like to further develop.
Perhaps the most surprising aspect of the internship for Mal has been the level of freedom and respect accorded to their input. Unlike previous experiences, this internship has prioritized Mal’s learning and skill development. They have been pleasantly surprised to find that their ideas and opinions are not only respected but actively sought out, creating an environment where they can truly flourish and grow professionally.
Michael (Mike) Fowler
Mike Fowler is a rising third-year student at Penn State majoring in political science with minors in media studies and politics and public policy. Originally from northern New Jersey, Mike chose Penn State for the myriads of opportunities both inside and outside the classroom, abundance of resources for student success, and strong sense of community, particularly evident through the Alumni Association. For Mike, Penn State was the natural choice and has become a place he proudly calls home.
Mike’s appreciation for philanthropy at Penn State runs deep. He recognizes its invaluable impact on the University and its students across the Commonwealth. From scholarship support to iconic class gifts like the Lion Shrine and the We Are statue, to essential buildings such as the Pegula Ice Arena and the Palmer Art Museum, Mike understands that philanthropy has a long history of enhancing every Penn State campus and creating innovative experiences for the entire University community. He firmly believes that without philanthropy, Penn State as we know it today would be unrecognizable.
The DDAR internship program appealed to Mike for several reasons. He saw it as an opportunity to further immerse himself in Penn State, learning more about its administration, operations, and budget. Moreover, he recognized that the program offers skills that are not only relevant to frontline fundraising and development but are also transferable to various industries post-graduation. Whether it’s event planning, strategic communications, interpersonal skills, or project management, Mike feels this internship is preparing him not just for his remaining two years of college but for his future career as well.
One of the highlights of Mike’s internship experience has been the Friday cohort sessions. These weekly gatherings bring all nine DDAR interns together to meet with division leadership and Penn State leaders, focusing on team-building and critical thinking activities. Alongside his projects in the College of Earth and Mineral Sciences (EMS), Mike considers these sessions some of the most engaging and enjoyable experiences of his time at Penn State.
The internship has significantly altered Mike’s perspective on philanthropy at Penn State. Prior to this experience, he had not fully grasped the extent of philanthropy’s impact on the University. A scavenger hunt during the first week of the internship, which led interns to discover various donor gifts, historical places, and class gifts around campus, opened his eyes to the pervasive influence of philanthropy.
Gabriela (Gabby) Rivera
Gabby Rivera is a recent graduate of Penn State where she earned her bachelor’s degree in political. For Gabby, Penn State was always her top choice, drawn by its strong sense of community and by THON.
Philanthropy at Penn State holds a deeply personal significance for Gabby. As a recipient of a scholarship that covered over 75 percent of her tuition, she has experienced firsthand the life-changing impact of donor generosity. This personal connection has instilled in her a profound appreciation for how philanthropy ensures equal access to educational opportunities and enriching experiences for many students who might otherwise not have them.
Gabby’s decision to join the DDAR Internship program was driven by her desire to give back to the community that had given her so much. The opportunity to remain involved with Penn State post-graduation and work for the University in State College was particularly appealing to her.
During her internship, Gabby has particularly enjoyed the camaraderie with other interns and the chance to meet new people. The Friday sessions have been a highlight, offering opportunities to interact with a variety of individuals and learn from their experiences. She fondly recalls tours of Beaver Stadium and visits to Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center and the Millennium Science Complex as standout moments.
As Gabby prepares to embark on her next chapter – law school– she carries with her valuable lessons from this internship. Chief among these is a reinforced belief in the importance of community and support. Witnessing how philanthropy creates opportunities at Penn State has strengthened her commitment to giving back and supporting others, a principle she intends to apply throughout her future career.
Perhaps the most surprising aspect of the internship for Gabby has been discovering the true extent of alumni and donor contributions to Penn State. While she was always aware of financial support, she never fully grasped its magnitude and the far-reaching impact it has on the University’s success and student experiences.
As Gabby moves forward into her legal studies, she takes with her a deeper appreciation for philanthropy, a stronger connection to the Penn State community, and a renewed commitment to giving back. Her time with the DDAR Internship program has not only enhanced her understanding of university operations but also reinforced her belief in the importance of paying it forward.
Owen Haddad
Owen Haddad is a rising fourth-year student at Penn State studying public relations with minors in organizational leadership and digital media trends and analytics. Originally from California, Owen chose Penn State after touring the campus, drawn by the desire to experience something different from his Los Angeles roots.
For Owen, philanthropy at Penn State holds significant importance. As a scholarship recipient himself, he has experienced firsthand the impact of donor generosity. Beyond his personal experience, Owen appreciates how philanthropy creates a lifelong connection between alumni and their alma mater, allowing them to continue contributing and helping students achieve their goals long after graduation.
One of the aspects Owen has enjoyed most during his DDAR internship has been the opportunity to gain deep institutional knowledge about Penn State. He has enjoyed learning how the University accomplishes its mission and strategic goals, giving him valuable context and insight into the inner workings of the institution.
The internship has significantly evolved Owen’s perspective on Penn State. He has developed a deeper understanding of the crucial role that alumni and friends of the University play in bringing numerous programs, initiatives, and facilities to life. Moreover, he’s gained appreciation for how these contributions make the Penn State experience accessible to a broader range of students.
A key takeaway for Owen from this internship has been the value of relationship building. Observing the gift officers for Penn State, he’s been inspired by their authentic approach to their work. He recognizes this skill as something that will be invaluable in his future career, regardless of the direction he takes after graduation.
Owen has been particularly impressed by how philanthropy opens doors and creates opportunities for students. He’s gained a new appreciation for the far-reaching impact of alumni contributions, seeing how they shape not just individual student experiences but the entire University landscape.
As Owen continues his academic journey at Penn State and looks toward his future career, he carries with him a deeper appreciation for the role of philanthropy in education, enhanced relationship-building skills, and a more comprehensive understanding of institutional operations. His time with the DDAR Internship program has not only expanded his professional skills but also deepened his connection to Penn State and its mission.
Khushi Tripathy
Khushi Tripathy is a rising fourth-year student at Penn State majoring in finance. Her decision to attend Penn State was influenced by her love for the campus, the supportive alumni network, and its relative proximity to her family.
Khushi’s choice to participate in the DDAR Internship program stemmed from her curiosity about development as a career path. She was intrigued by the opportunity to learn more about this field. Additionally, positive feedback from friends who had previously gone through the program encouraged her decision. They had described it as an excellent professional development experience within a supportive environment, which appealed to Khushi.
One of the key lessons Khushi has taken away from this internship is the importance of adaptability. She’s learned that being flexible and open to change has been crucial for her growth and success during the program. Khushi recognizes that this skill will continue to be valuable as she moves forward in her career.
The internship has significantly impacted Khushi’s perspective on philanthropy and her relationship with Penn State. It has fostered a deeper sense of gratitude in her as a student, making her more appreciative of the opportunities and resources available to her. Moreover, it has instilled in her a strong belief in the importance of “paying it forward” when she’s able to in the future.
Perhaps the most surprising aspect of the internship for Khushi has been the level of autonomy she’s been granted over the past few weeks. Despite the busy schedules of the staff, she’s found them consistently happy and willing to provide guidance throughout the internship. This balance of independence and support has clearly made a positive impression on her.
As Khushi continues her final year and looks towards her future career in finance, she carries with her valuable lessons from this internship. She’s developed a greater understanding of development work, honed her adaptability skills, and fostered a commitment to giving back. The DDAR Internship program has not only provided her with professional development but also deepened her connection to Penn State and its philanthropic mission.
Rasha Elwakil
Rasha Elwakil is a rising third-year student at Penn State majoring in geography. Her decision to attend Penn State was influenced by the University’s extensive resources and its commitment to accessible education. Rasha’s journey at Penn State has been significantly shaped by the Millennium Scholars Program, which has allowed her to attend Penn State without the financial burden of tuition and other costs. This opportunity has enabled her to fully immerse herself in the college experience and explore various opportunities.
Rasha was also drawn to Penn State’s school spirit. She was impressed by the widespread presence of Penn State merchandise across the country and even globally, which signaled to her the strong sense of community and engagement among students and alumni.
Philanthropy holds a special place in Rasha’s Penn State experience. Even before her first semester, she benefited from philanthropic efforts through the Millennium Scholars Program’s Summer BridgePprogram which helped her acclimate to campus life and learn about available resources. Beyond financial support, philanthropy has opened doors for Rasha through programs like the Presidential Leadership Academy, which has provided her with grants for essential academic tools and networking opportunities with professionals across various sectors.
Rasha chose the DDAR internship program to deepen her understanding of philanthropy and the motivations behind donor contributions to the University. She aspires to become a donor herself in the future and values the insights this internship provides into the experiences and dedication of donors and alumni. Additionally, she recognizes that the development field offers many transferable skills that will benefit her future career path.
During her internship, Rasha enjoyed exploring various facets of development. She’s gained a deeper understanding of faculty retention, building relationships with donors, and how the student experience influences alumni engagement. This comprehensive view of university operations has broadened her perspective on the impact of philanthropy in higher education. Perhaps the most surprising aspect of the internship for Rasha has been learning about the diverse departments within DDAR and the broad scope of their work. She’s been fascinated to discover the many ways donors contribute to Penn State, supporting various academic colleges and initiatives.
Haley Parker
Haley Parker is a rising fourth-year student at Penn State majoring in psychology and spanish with a certificate in business fundamentals. As a low-income, first-generation student from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Haley initially knew little about Penn State beyond its status as her state’s land-grant institution. However, her journey to Penn State was set in motion when she was offered a full-ride academic scholarship through the Bunton-Waller Fellowship.
Philanthropy holds a deeply personal significance for Haley. Her educational experience has been profoundly shaped by the generosity and interest of others. As a high school student, she was part of the Crossroads Foundation, and at Penn State, she is a Bunton-Waller Fellow, Horatio Alger Scholar, Presidential Scholar, and Chapel Executive Intern, all opportunities created through philanthropic efforts. Haley acutely understands the power of philanthropy in higher education and its transformative impact on students, families, programs, and institutions. She credits these philanthropic initiatives for her current success and opportunities.
Haley chose the DDAR Internship program out of a desire to learn more about the University’s philanthropic efforts and to gain insight into an aspect of the institution that few students get to see or even know about. Her love and passion for Penn State fueled her eagerness to understand more about its operations and meet the people behind its success.
Throughout her internship, what Haley has enjoyed most is the opportunity to meet so many people within the division. She’s been particularly struck by the diversity of backgrounds and experiences among those working in philanthropy. Haley has found it fascinating to learn how many people in the field “fell into it” from various walks of life, and she values the privilege of learning from this wealth of diverse knowledge and experiences.
As Haley looks toward her future, the DDAR internship has opened possibilities she never knew existed. While she still has one more year until she officially becomes a Penn State alumna, she hopes to continue working with the division in some capacity after graduation. Her goal is to support and further the University’s philanthropic efforts, inspired by the impact she’s witnessed and experienced firsthand.
This internship has not only deepened Haley’s understanding of university operations and philanthropy but has also reinforced her commitment to giving back. As someone who has benefited greatly from philanthropic initiatives, she’s poised to become a strong advocate for and potentially a future contributor to such efforts.
Inspired by the 2024 DDAR Summer Intern experiences at Penn State? Please contact [relevant office] about how you can support its efforts.