USAO students gaining real-world experience through internships
Students at the University of Science & Arts of Oklahoma are making a significant impact on their community, while gaining real-world experience, through a variety of internship programs. These hands-on experiences not only enhance the student’s professional development but also provide valuable support to local businesses and organizations.
Internships provide students with valuable experience that will aid them in getting a job after graduation.
"Internships offer our students real-world experience, bridging the gap between academic knowledge and professional practice," said Kelli Monroe, director of student success. "By participating in internships, our students develop critical skills, build professional networks and gain a competitive edge in the job market, all while contributing meaningfully to the community."
Although summer internships have just begun, they are already in full swing, with students immersing themselves in opportunities for career growth. Among them is Emily Loughridge who is currently interning at Oklahoma City nonprofit Not Your Average Joe, and Harry Cracknell who is gaining valuable experience at a local Chickasha business, Shelter Insurance.
Loughridge, a senior communications major from Union City, has been interning with Not Your Average Joe for a full month. In mid-February Dr. Rachel Jones, dean of the School of Science and Physical Education, reached out to Loughridge offering the opportunity to moderate for the Emerson-Wier Symposium. During this time, she was introduced to entrepreneur Tim Herbel, who was speaking at the Symposium. She fell in love with the nonprofit, and quickly grew excited to put her education into practice while learning new skills. During her internship, Loughridge is assisting with grant writing, marketing and event management.
“In my first month I have written four press releases and sent them out to various publications across the state,” said Loughridge. “I am constantly building and strengthening our relationships with press, neighbors, donors, and others. I recently started being trained as a barista as well!”
Not Your Average Joe’s mission is to inspire their community by including students and adults with intellectual, development, and physical disabilities in the creation of exceptional coffee in an encouraging atmosphere.
“I am encouraging all my friends and family to visit the stores, not only because we have great coffee, but because of the joy customers feel when they walk in the door. Our shops are full of energy and sunshine,” said Loughridge.
Cracknell, a senior business administration major from Brighton, England, is currently interning for Shelter Insurance, a local agency in Chickasha.
“I first found out about it by scrolling through Handshake,” said Cracknell. “I applied to many internships; however, after meeting with the owner, Gerron Smith, this opportunity was difficult to refuse. I loved Gerron's initiative and willingness to partner with USAO on educating students about not only the insurance world, but how to manage a small business—he has taken me under his wing, so to speak.”
Since the start of the internship, Cracknell has coordinated a social media marketing plan, created sales initiatives, and assisted in administrative work where needed in the office. These out-of-classroom experiences are crucial, allowing him to hone his skills in marketing, communication, sales and administration, preparing him for success after graduation.
“I'm incredibly grateful and would 100 percent recommend an internship to anybody wanting some practical knowledge to complement their degree,” said Cracknell.
USAO has now made it easier than ever for businesses to recruit and hire students. The USAO Student Success Center has partnered with Handshake, an online job/internship platform that allows employers to directly connect with students and alumni for employment opportunities at their companies.
Setup is easy and free. For assistance, contact careersuccess@usao.edu or call (405) 574-1360.
About the University of Science & Arts of Oklahoma
As Oklahoma’s liberal arts college, the University of Science & Arts of Oklahoma provides a distinctive education in the liberal arts and sciences, supporting both its interdisciplinary core curriculum and major fields of study with superior teaching. USAO fosters diversity of thought and practice to help students realize meaningful, purposeful and productive lives as global citizens in a rapidly changing world.