UPIC: Research and Storytelling Intern
Spring 2024
During my internship at Clemson University’s Office of Global Engagement in Spring 2024, I worked as a Research and Storytelling Intern under Dr. Sharon Nagy to contribute to the creation of a digital magazine featuring the history of Clemson's internationalization and global engagement with Japan. The magazine featured a timeline of Clemson’s relations with Japan, as well as other pages like Corporate Foundation Relations with Japanese companies, Japanese Exchange Programs, Alumni Profiles, and Incoming Students.
My primary responsibilities during the creation of the magazine involved conducting research, interviewing both alumni and current students, and compiling stories that showcased Clemson’s global engagement efforts. I also worked with archival materials to select relevant images and documents that complemented the articles.
After the magazine was finalized, I used my remaining hours to interview graduates from the Language and International Business (LAIB) program about their career paths and international work experiences in order to provide these insights to other students in the Japanese program. These interviews provided valuable insights into job hunting and workplace culture in Japan, particularly the emphasis on company fit and networking in the hiring process.
Additionally, I managed my tasks remotely while studying abroad for a significant portion of the internship, which required strong time management and communication skills, especially when coordinating across different time zones. Through this experience, I developed my research, writing, and intercultural communication skills, all of which will be valuable in my future career in international business and marketing.
In Fall 2024, I had the pleasure of interning at Upstate International in Greenville, SC. Upstate International is a non-profit dedicated to creating a globally welcoming Upstate South Carolina by providing education, resources, and opportunities for cultural exchange. Founded in 1998, the organization serves as a hub for international programs and connections, offering language classes, cultural events, and community engagement initiatives.
Upstate International: International Programs and Marketing Intern
Fall 2024
One of my key responsibilities was assisting with outreach and coordination for international programs, such as the Beyond the Headlines Lecture Series. This involved scheduling events, communicating with speakers, and ensuring that these programs successfully engaged both international and local community members. Another significant aspect of my role was supporting Upstate International’s language and education programs. I worked closely with the Language School coordinator to help with registration, scheduling, and outreach efforts for language classes. My role also extended to assisting with programs such as the International Women’s Group, helping to coordinate activities and enhance engagement among participants. Through these experiences, I strengthened my organizational and communication skills, as well as my ability to work with diverse groups in an educational setting.
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Marketing and publicity were also key components of my internship. I collaborated with the marketing coordinator to develop outreach strategies for Upstate International’s programs, including crafting social media posts and Enews announcements to promote events and language classes. Additionally, I worked on creating and revising flyers, writing press releases, and researching ways to enhance Upstate International’s visibility within the community. I also conducted outreach to internationally owned companies, researching their corporate social responsibility goals and potential opportunities for community engagement. This aspect of my internship allowed me to apply my marketing knowledge in a real-world setting while further developing my skills in strategic communication and international program development.
Samples of graphics I created for Upstate International's Social Media:
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