The growth and success of this summer’s Applebaum Internship Program (AIP) was due to great leadership and collaborative partnerships, diverse experiences, special professional development programing, and a dedicated cohort of amazing students. We are extremely proud of the incredible work of our 10 host organizations, 17 Applebaum Supervisors, and 18 Applebaum Interns.
The Applebaum Internship Program is an eight-week, paid internship program for students enrolled at a college or university in Michigan. Students have first-hand experience working at designated local nonprofit and cultural arts partner organizations, while building a cohort and taking part in professional leadership development training programs.
Great Leadership and Collaboration
Arts & Scraps, Coaching Detroit Forward, College for Creative Studies, Detroit Historical Society, Detroit Institute of Arts, Detroit Public Theatre, Detroit Symphony Orchestra, Detroit Zoological Society, Motown Museum, and the University of Michigan Museum of Art were this year’s participating organizations. In partnership with these organizations and their exceptional professional staff who supervised the interns, students gained professional training and hands-on work experience. Supervisors were deeply engaged and supportive in helping the interns advance their professional knowledge and development for future success.
“I thoroughly enjoyed my time with my host organization (UMMA), and I felt that the program really allowed me to explore museum marketing from a unique lens.” – Katherine Hattersley, Applebaum Intern, University of Michigan Museum of Arts (UMMA)
Diverse Experiences
The Applebaum Internship Program is intentionally designed to expose students to the nonprofit industry and deepen their understanding of the variety of career opportunities within the sector. Internships included positions in development & fundraising, strategic marketing, human resources, as well as community engagement. The ultimate value is the opportunity to share the diversity of their experience as a collective cohort. By the end of the eight-week program, students not only gained a real perspective of their host organization and job responsibilities, but also the chance to learn together in dialogue as a peer-group.
Professional Development Programs
A program requirement is the participation in four cohort professional development and network sessions.
R E S P E C T at Motown
One of the cohort experiences included gaining a new “respect” for the many ways the Motown Museum departments come together to advance the mission of the organization.
The Applebaum Interns had the opportunity to meet with Chairwoman and CEO, Robin Terry and eight department leaders from the Motown Museum. Each department leader shared their professional journey, the importance of their respective department, and how a diverse team unites in working together for a common purpose. The group had the opportunity for a private tour, learning Motown’s unique history and its invaluable contribution to our community’s continued enrichment.
Entrepreneurship Speed Networking
Another key professional development session took place at TechTown, where the Applebaum Interns and their Supervisors had the opportunity to meet with the CEO, Ned Staebler, and learn about what TechTown is doing to support and advance Detroit’s entrepreneurs. The group participated in “Entrepreneurial Speed Networking Sessions” where interns engaged in candid rapid-fire dialogue with the cohort supervisors, diving into their to experiences and expertise on a range of key professional and leadership topics. The discussion groups led by supervisors provided keen insight into their professional journey and how their current roles play a part in their organization’s mission.
“Talking to each mentor really solidified my interest and passion for this work and it was refreshing to be around so many like-minded, passionate individuals.” – Ava Dobos, Applebaum Intern, DIA
Cultivated Cohort Experience
Beyond the internship and professional development experience, it was the cohort connection which made this summer’s program ultimately successful. Students from the College of Creative Studies, Eastern Michigan University, Grand Valley State University, Kalamazoo College, Michigan State University, University of Michigan, and Wayne State University shared learning and built relationships with one another. They now have a valuable peer network to support their journey as they head back to school or onto their next leadership endeavor.
The energy & enthusiasm was unparalleled from this group of students and supervisors. We thank them all for their commitment to the program and look forward to building on this success next summer.
“Thank you very much for letting me be a part of this experience! I felt like I took a lot out of it and have really enjoyed getting to know the city of Detroit better as well.” – Ashley Poulin, Applebaum Intern, Detroit Public Theatre
