3 Things I’ve Learned from Running an Internship Program
By Chelsea McCarty
Marketing Manager, Westfield Washington Township
When I set out to build the Westfield Washington Township Marketing Internship Program, I knew I wanted it to be more than just busy work. I wanted our interns to leave with real, hands-on experience and a portfolio they could proudly showcase. Most importantly, I wanted them to walk away with a meaningful connection to our team and their future careers.
What I didn’t expect? How much I would learn in the process.
Over the past year, I’ve had the privilege of working with some truly incredible interns. Each one has brought something unique to the table, challenged me to grow as a leader and made a lasting impact on our marketing efforts. Here are three lessons that have shaped the way I run our program, and honestly, the way I approach leadership in general:
1. You’re Not Just a Manager, You’re a Mentor
I quickly learned that my interns don’t just need direction or a list of daily tasks to check off. They need guidance, encouragement, and a safe space to ask questions. Interns come in eager but often unsure. Some hesitate to speak up because they don’t want to seem inexperienced. That’s why I’ve made it a priority to create a culture of mentorship, where no question is “silly” and growth is the goal.
I also walked into this program with the mindset that I’m not working above them, I’m working beside them. I may be their “manager” by title, but I’m their mentor by choice. Watching them grow in confidence is one of the most rewarding parts of my job.
Another important lesson I’ve learned? Being approachable and available are not the same thing. You might be available on your calendar, but that doesn’t automatically make you feel approachable. That’s why I also make it a point to get to know my interns personally, not just professionally. I genuinely want to hear about their lives, their goals, and their wins because I’m not just investing in the work they do for us, I’m investing in them as people.
2. Every Intern Brings Something Unique to the Table
No two interns are alike. They each have different strengths, fresh perspectives and creative ideas that can enrich the work we do – if we give them the chance.
Some of the best social media content we’ve produced didn’t come from me, it came from giving interns the space to explore, brainstorm, and try new things. Of course, there’s structure and strategy involved, but when you trust interns with creative freedom, you might be surprised at what they come up with.
One of my proudest moments? Last summer, my interns pitched a video idea that I never would have thought of. We ran with it, built the storyboard together, and it became one of our highest-performing posts of the year. It was so much fun to celebrate that win with them! Moments like that remind me exactly why I love this program.
3. Teaching Is Also Learning
Explaining strategies forces me to rethink why I do things a certain way. Seeing social media through fresh eyes keeps me adaptable and honestly, my interns always bring ideas that challenge me to think in new, even more creative ways. Don’t be afraid to be a sponge – learn as much from them as they do from you!
At the end of the day, mentoring interns isn’t just about helping them grow, it’s about growing together. Internship programs, when done right, aren’t just a pipeline for future talent. They’re a powerful way to invest in emerging professionals while evolving as leaders, teams and organizations. I’m proud to be building this program right here in Hamilton County – helping students grow organizations evolve and our community thrive.