Internships are essential components of any college experience, helping students apply their classroom knowledge to real-world work situations. Interns are also essential to many businesses’ operations, including the Blue Ribbon Foundation! As an intern myself in 2018, I can personally attest to the fact that this is not your typical “clock-in, clock-out, coffee-duty plus menial tasks” summer job; it is far from it! Truly, interning with the Foundation was the most valuable, versatile, and enjoyable experience I could have had.
From event planning to volunteer management, graphic design to social media, and merchandise sales to donor communications, Foundation interns take ownership of a wide variety of duties for the Corndog Kickoff and Iowa State Fair. The skills learned through behind-the-scenes planning, hands-on execution, and public-facing interactions are not only great resume builders, but also open doors to many future career opportunities. In my case, this internship directly paved the way to my role at Greater Des Moines Habitat for Humanity, where I managed volunteers, events, and sponsor programs for 2.5 years. Returning to our great State Fair as the Sponsorship Director in April of 2022, I am now responsible for securing and managing the 100+ sponsors for the Fair.
Ask one of the many former interns (including our very own Communications Manager, Drew!) and they are sure to share an unforgettable Fairtime story that you couldn’t find anywhere else. The Blue Ribbon Foundation team of five is excited to share more memorable, transformative experiences with three new interns in 2024, and I would love to pass along the same joy and value I gained 5+ years ago. If you know a hard-working college student who loves the Iowa State Fair and is looking for an internship next spring/summer, please share this opportunity! They'll truly make connections that'll last a lifetime.
Click here to learn more about this program. Applications will be accepted until December 5th.
-Julianna Curtis