Our #SummerOfPurpose blog series follows this year’s Cleveland Foundation Summer Interns as they reflect on 11 weeks spent working with Cleveland-area nonprofit and public sector organizations. In today’s blog, we hear from Sydney Burger, who spent her summer at Starting Point working with the organization’s marketing and communications department.

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

I have always been drawn to work in the nonprofit field and have loved studying marketing/communications, so finding an internship that combined both my passions was a perfect fit! I was drawn to the Cleveland Foundation Internship Program’s cohort model, for I had previously participated in an internship program, through the John Carroll University Center for Service and Social Action, that was similar. The cohort model, where each intern was placed at a different nonprofit, is something I found myself thriving in. I love connecting with other interns and learning about the large variety of public service work in Cleveland.

What was the most valuable aspect of your internship experience?

The most valuable aspect of my internship has definitely been the Starting Point team. My supervisor, Savannah, has really taken intentional time to show me all the ins and outs of the marketing communications field. She made time to sit down with me and give me tutorials on different marketing softwares, then let me independently execute projects with the skills I have learned. I have also loved working hands-on with the outreach team. I have gotten to attend so many community events and meet many partners in our Cleveland community.

What was the most challenging aspect of your internship experience?

The most challenging aspect of my internship has been finding the confidence to use my voice. The team at Starting Point truly values my ideas and it took me a while to realize that. I was scared to give my input and feedback because I lacked experience. At the beginning of my internship, when I was asked to give my thoughts on a project, I was nervous to share my ideas. However, throughout my internship I have been encouraged to be creative and come up with new goals.

How did this internship helped you grow professionally & personally?

The Cleveland Foundation’s vast network of connections has allowed me to be introduced to a wide variety of organizations that are doing great things around Cleveland. Through programming with the Cleveland Leadership Center I got to attend neighborhood tours to learn about different offerings in the Ohio City and Gordon Square areas. Exploring different nonprofits and new community projects has demonstrated ways for me to stay involved in Cleveland and Social Justice work after my graduation from John Carroll.

Where would you take a friend who is visiting Cleveland for the first time?

I have lived in Cleveland my whole life and there are so many things to love about it. It’s so hard to pick one! I love the lake. I really enjoy walking and biking along Edgewater beach, or watching the sunset on the lake after a long day. I would definitely recommend that to a friend. I also love the flats. Dinner, music, and a lively atmosphere, what else could you ask for?

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

To someone applying to the Cleveland Foundation Internship program, I would say be open to new opportunities and experiences! Prior to this program, I had specific interests I found myself stuck in. I knew nothing about Starting Point and the complexities of child care and was nervous I wouldn’t be able to connect with the organization. To my surprise, my internship with Starting Point and the Cleveland Foundation became the most valuable professional experience I have had throughout my undergraduate studies. Not only have I learned so much at Starting Point, but I have enjoyed going to work everyday.

Learn more about spending a #SummerOfPurpose as a Cleveland Foundation intern.