Our #SummerOfPurpose blog series follows this year’s Cleveland Foundation Summer Interns as they spend 11 weeks working with Cleveland-area nonprofit and public sector organizations. In today’s blog we hear from Jordan Kerr, who is working with Group Plan Commission, coordinating the free “Summer Splash” programming on Cleveland Public Square.

Why did you initially decide to participate in this internship program?

I wanted something that would challenge me, while also providing opportunities for me to network and learn. The Cleveland Foundation seemed to have the same goals and also included a clear plan to achieve them.

What has been the most valuable aspect of your internship experience?

So far, the most valuable aspect has been the freedom to make my own choices and learn from the outcomes that I’ve experienced. I am really looking forward to meeting all of the staff and other organizations to learn more about the nonprofit world and Cleveland itself.

What skills are you hoping to develop through this experience?

The skills I hope to develop are networking and relationship building, as well as leadership skills.

How has this internship helped you grow professionally? Or, how do you hope it will help you grow professionally?

This internship will give me the opportunity to put a lot of my class notes and textbooks into practice. I am practicing leadership styles and also marketing my skills and my program. Learning firsthand what the professional world is actually like, instead of just reading about it, will be a really good experience.

What are your career goals after college?

My general goal is that I want to help people. I haven’t narrowed down the specifics, but I am really enjoying program management so far and I am excited to see where that goes. I hope to be able to work somewhere with the same amount of heart that the Cleveland Foundation has.

When you’re not working, what do you enjoy doing around Cleveland?

Since I am not from the area, I enjoy simply getting lost in the city. Wandering around and getting to know different areas has been really fun.

What is your favorite public space in Cleveland?

Luckily, my favorite place in Cleveland is Public Square. I love where I work because I am right in the heart of Cleveland and get to spend all day with the community.

What advice would you give to someone considering applying for the Cleveland Foundation Summer Internship Program?

Jump in feet first! This program can demand a lot, but in the best way possible. Also, you can handle it.