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 Bailey Hall, who spent her summer at Seeds of Literacy, helping their staff research, analyze and develop new strategies for reaching a broader audience in helping adults achieve their basic education and literacy goals.

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

I wanted to pursue the Cleveland Foundation Summer Internship Program because it is a great opportunity to learn more about nonprofits and organizations doing great work in Cleveland. I decided to participate in the internship program because a few of my mentors at Baldwin Wallace University told me how great the program was and that it would help me explore my interests in an immersive way. I was very excited during the application process because an important issue to me is education and Seeds of Literacy is an amazing place helping people learn and pursue their dreams.

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

The most valuable aspect of my internship experience has been going into the classroom and meeting the students that come to Seeds of Literacy. I loved talking and getting to know some of the students and helping out in the classroom a few times at their East side location. I have overall loved meeting new people throughout this internship and learning about the meaningful work going on throughout Cleveland as well.  

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

The most challenging aspect was how fast the summer went. The 11 weeks were jam-packed full of excitement and definitely flew by before I knew it.

How has this internship helped you grow professionally & personally?

I have been interested in nonprofit work for a while, and this internship provided me the opportunity to get real experience and a better understanding of what working in this field really looks like. I am passionate about my education and value it very much, so it was very gratifying to work closely with others that felt the same and wanted to help people with their education and academic goals. It has been very beneficial to me as well to continue to improve my interpersonal, communication, and research skills while working on these projects.

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

I would definitely take a friend to the West Side Market. I love going there and think it is a great place everyone should go to at least once if they are visiting Cleveland. Overall, Ohio City and Little Italy are my favorite parts of the city because you can always find fantastic food.

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

This internship is very valuable because you meet the people taking initiative and learn about the history and issues facing Cleveland. So, I would advise taking it all in and making every moment count. It is a great experience full of engaging opportunities and amazing people. I am very grateful for all the people I have met and especially the other interns in my cohort I have made connections with during the summer.

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