Attention College Students!
November 16, 2015
The Blue Ribbon Foundation is accepting applications for our internship program. The description is only a brief overview of what an intern can accomplish during a summer with the Foundation.
Interns are tasked with managing multiple communication materials including writing newsletter articles, ENews messages, blog posts, and other social media. There is an opportunity to creatively design marketing materials, merchandise and promotional pieces. The interns will organize more than 400 volunteers, donor relation events, the Iowan of the Day program, Fairgrounds 5K, 1854 Society brunch, Woodcarver’s Auction, Fair Squares sales, and the list goes on.
If an intern has a special skill, we utilize it. If an intern wants to learn more about a specific aspect of our organization, we give them the tools to gain a better understanding while continuing to accomplish the Foundation’s overall goal. I can’t express enough how important the interns are to our organization. The work they do is just as important as our full-time staff. Any internship is an asset to a college student’s resume but I think working with the Blue Ribbon Foundation gives an even bigger step in the right direction toward starting a career. I may be a tiny bit partial to our internship program as a Foundation employee and past intern myself.
Below is what previous interns had to say about their experience with the Foundation:
"My summer at the Foundation gave me the experience needed to excel in the future. The people I met and projects I worked on were invaluable. Having a variety of large projects allowed me to take ownership of my work and collaborate with a close-knit and fun staff! When people ask me what I learned during my summer at the Foundation, I truthfully reply with, "what didn't I learn?" – Molly Schmitt, 2015
“The Iowa State Fair has always been a passion of mine. As an intern I was challenged to be creative and think outside the box. I was able to go "behind-the-scenes" and learn hands-on with the staff. It was a summer I will never forget.” Paris Schnepf, 2014
“My experience at the Blue Ribbon Foundation helped me grow both personally and professionally, all while having a blast and spending time at my favorite place, the Iowa State Fair. This internship is a great opportunity to just jump right in and take ownership of projects. Interning with the Foundation gives you the opportunity to learn and grow by doing. Now, I have a full time job in marketing and communications. The skills I learned at the Fair are all things I use on a daily basis whether it's presenting to a group, interacting with clients or day to day office work. On top of all of the experience I gained while interning with the Foundation, I made lifelong friends and continue to plan my summers around the Fair!” Maddie Boswell, 2012
“Interning for the Blue Ribbon Foundation was a great opportunity to prepare me for my professional life. Throughout the summer there are so many learning opportunities to take advantage of. Working with fellow interns and staff was fun and challenging. It was so important to work together like a well-oiled machine, and that is a skill you will take with you for the rest of your life.” Kristen Anderson, 2011
For more information about what we offer and how to apply, check our our website. If you have any questions regarding the process, please contact me (Drew@BlueRibbonFoundation.org or 515-262-3111 Ext. 375). We look forward to receiving your application and hopefully in person for an interview. Applications are due December 31...don't miss out on this great opportunity!
