Intern Testimonials

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Sales and Marketing

"I was extremely fortunate to have the opportunity to work with the staff at HI-Chicago. My apartment-like accommodations were wonderful and I loved living downtown.

My position as the sales and marketing intern allowed me to learn more about how a not-for profit organization operates. Working directly with the Sales and Marketing Director taught me about marketing to different audiences. My duties included: contacting potential clients; researching how to best market to groups with different demographics; tracking the success of past marketing efforts; and fulfilling action steps for HI-Chicago’s marketing plan. In addition, I was able to create an advertisement, make a flyer, take pictures, coordinate a photo shoot, write for the website, and design my own marketing program.

I had a wonderful mentor who included me in company and business meetings, and brought me to events in the city that taught me a lot about the Chicago tourism scene. I am very thankful for this wonderful internship at HI-Chicago. I love this organization’s mission and this internship has given me more confidence for my future job search."

Kristin Sanders Public Relations Major Valparaiso University Summer 2003 intern

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"Interning at Hostelling International was one of the best experiences I ever had. I learned so much about marketing that I never could have learned anywhere else. This was due to the size of the organization and HI’s key position in the tourism industry for Chicago.

The size of the organization allowed me to learn about a wide range of areas such as basic analysis, reports, and customer service. I also was able to make a difference by attending and participating in staff and marketing meetings.

HI’s key position in the tourism industry also let me see an aspect of Chicago that I would not have seen anywhere else. Since a main part of marketing is making contacts, I was able to attend numerous events that were the highlight of my internship. Attending these events gave me the confidence to build relationships with strangers and to see how they can become beneficial for the organization."

Dave Vanderwoude Bachelor of Arts in Business/CAS Bachelor of Arts in Spanish Calvin College Spring 2003 intern

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Education and Youth Outreach: Cultural Kitchen

"Interning at HI-Chicago was an exceptional experience. Working specifically with the Cultural Kitchen program provided opportunities to help inspire a global perspective in youth. It was great to encourage students to broaden their world view and see them get excited about learning about other cultures and traveling in the US and abroad. HI-Chicago is an exciting and dynamic environment!"

Melodee Walker Elementary Education Major University of Northern Iowa Summer 2003 intern

Interns Index:
Interns Main Page
Intern Application Requirements
Intern Testimonials