The Arts Internship Program connects Arts students with exciting BC employers. Interns gain valuable work experience through positions tailored to Arts students. Read about Kim Peterson’s experience to see what an Arts Internship can do for you:
Major and Year: Anthropology, 4th year
Current Position: Intern with the David Suzuki Foundation (DSF)
Why did you apply for an Arts Internship?
During the final leg of my bachelor’s degree last fall, I began looking for an entry-level job in the cultural or non-profit sector. Most of my recent experience was in retail and customer service. So, I was frustrated to find that many of the interesting positions required more professional experience than I had. I realized that I needed to bulk up my skill-set before I started my career.
Tell us about your internship. What are your responsibilities? What do you like about it?
I admire the dedication of the David Suzuki Foundation to environmental and sustainability issues. Working in its Vancouver office, I’ve found that the people here are just as passionate, talented and creative as David himself.
I’m working with the community engagement team, which provides outreach to the general public and organizes the hundreds of DSF volunteers across Canada. One of the newest projects here is the David Suzuki Foundation Book Club. My main task has been to work with my AIP advisor to plan and develop a launch event, which will be taking place during Earth Week (April 19-24). In these early stages I’ve had the opportunity to draw up proposals, address the entire DSF office at a staff meeting, work with volunteers to produce promotional material, recruit book swap venues and volunteers, and communicate with participating public members.
It’s been fabulous. I love it.
What are you getting out of the experience? How does it fit in with your future career plans?
I’ve had many opportunities to take my ideas and turn them into something real. This is my first experience event planning, and I am lucky to have access to the resources and reputation that comes with working for such an iconic Canadian organization. I’ve gotten my first taste of volunteer management and have been able to put my communications skills to good use. Once I graduate, I hope to work for a similar organization with a mission that aligns with my own values and goals. The experiences I continue to accumulate at the David Suzuki Foundation have reinforced my desire to work with communities, volunteers and dedicated members of the public toward a better quality of life for all Canadians.
