Eight Elon University students were accepted into the Executive Intern Program this year after undergoing an application process headed by SGA Executive President Darien Flowers and President Leo Lambert. The program was created by Flowers and Lambert last year.
According to Flowers, to be chosen as an intern for the program, a student needs an excellent application, transcript and resume.
“We created a criteria for students who excelled academically and in campus involvement,” Flowers said. “It’s for those who achieve in the classroom and outside the classroom.”
The program is designed to give Elon students with aspirations of working in higher education experience working with members of senior staff, according to Flowers. Internship placements depend on each student’s goals and range from jobs in communications, admissions, athletics, finance and advancement.
“This program is extremely competitive,” Flowers said. “We want to hone the skills across every discipline on this campus and give an opportunity for those who have thought of higher education.”
This year, 20 students applied for the program, and members of last year’s program chose eight to participate. During its first year, the Executive Intern Program had only three members because Flowers and Lambert wanted to test certain projects and strengthen the program, Flowers said.
But the pilot program inspired more students to apply. Junior Gregory Honan, an intern in the Office of the President, said he chose to apply for the position to learn more about working at a university.
“To come into the office and work with people who are smarter and with more experience than you is a great way to learn,” Honan said.
During Winter Term, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day, the interns develop projects in their respective departments. Their experience will culminate with a presentation in the spring.
Senior Shelby McKay, an intern for the athletic department, is working with Dave Blank, director of athletics, on “Night of the Phoenix,” a fundraiser for the Phoenix Club set for February.
“This is a side of Elon you never get to see,” McKay said.
Senior David Goltz, an intern for the Office of Business, Finance and Technology, is working to develop marketing programs for Lakeside Dining Hall. Goltz said he hopes to make a significant impact in University Advancement.
Senior Kathryn Knaus, who is interning in the Office of Admissions, said she aims to develop a program that will last beyond her time as a student. Like Knaus, senior Tyrice Johnson said he views this program as a way to give back to Elon.
“It’s an opportunity to learn, an opportunity to contribute,” Johnson said.