Community, Coffee & Chalk Dust: An Intern's Story
Over the past two months, Miles has gone the extra mile in more ways than one. From community events and office projects to discovering everything that goes into supporting local businesses, he's experienced a little bit of everything during his internship. Join us as we look back on his summer through his own reflections, favorite moments, and the lessons he'll take with him.
1. Before your internship, what did you think a Chamber of Commerce actually did?
Before my internship, I honestly thought the Chamber mostly focused on marketing and networking. I quickly learned it's so much more than that. The Chamber is constantly working behind the scenes to bring people together, support local businesses, and help keep our communities moving forward.
2. If you had to describe your internship in just three words, what would they be—and why?
Busy. Rewarding. Eye-opening.
Borderline Chalkfest kept us moving almost nonstop, and even after the big events, there was always something happening behind the scenes. It was really interesting to see everything that goes into running the Chamber year-round.
3. Borderline Chalkfest is no small event! What was your favorite memory or "wow" moment from the weekend?
My biggest "wow" moment was seeing how smoothly everything came together. After spending weeks helping prepare, it was exciting to watch thousands of people enjoy the event and see all the hard work pay off. (And after being outside in the July heat... stepping into the air conditioning was a pretty great memory too!)
4. What's one behind-the-scenes thing people would never realize goes into planning community events?
I never realized how much preparation goes into even the smallest details. There was a lot more cutting, laminating, organizing, and prepping than I expected, and it really showed me how much work happens long before an event begins.
5. What's a skill you've learned here that you'll take with you wherever you go next?
I learned a lot about social media—how to build web pages, create posts, and what kinds of content get people to interact and engage. It's something I'll definitely use in the future, especially for my business Forged Mobile Detailing!
6. Was there a project or task you were nervous to take on that ended up becoming one of your favorites?
Definitely social media posting. At first, I was nervous I'd mess something up, but once I got the hang of it, it became one of my favorite responsibilities. It was fun seeing posts go live and knowing I helped share what was happening around the Twin Towns. I'd also have to say the Spotlight for my Business, I was nervous for that one and really wanted it to go well and when it did it was really awesome!
7. Looking back on the last two months, what are you most proud of?
I'm most proud of all the connections I made. Meeting local business owners, volunteers, and community members helped me better understand everything that goes into making the Twin Towns such a great place.
8. What's your favorite photo from your internship, and what's the story behind it?
My favorite photo is me holding the dog at Creative Stitches. Let's just say the dog wanted to be part of the meeting too, so I volunteered to keep it company.
Also when Katie & Jordan gave me a gift at the end of my internship, because they were going to get me movie tickets for the new Spiderman movie up in Fargo, and I came in the very next day and told them I bought tickets for opening day! It was really funny when they told me that story!
Bonus Questions:
- Coffee or energy drinks—which fueled the internship? Dr. Pepper!!
- What's one thing you'll never look at the same way again after working at the Chamber? A Laminator.Â
- If someone handed you the keys to plan one new community event, what would you create? A movie event, or something like a drive in movie event.
- What's one thing you'll miss most when your internship ends? Learning from Katie & Jordan.
