Life at The CHOP Foundation
Hello! My name is Sophia Soto, as I wrap up one of my final semesters as an undergrad, I’d like to reflect on my experience as an Event Marketing Intern at The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia Foundation. During my time at The CHOP Foundation, I’ve learned so many valuable lessons both to better my professional life, and my personal life.
I remember the first time I felt like I was actually part of the team rather than just another intern. I remember getting applauded and celebrated for my little victories from my managers, and then being cheered on by my coworkers. I noticed soon after I started working there that my coworkers stopped being just my coworkers, and soon became my very close friends. Though this may seem silly, I truly learned so much about how a to properly attack a project or problem with a team, and how to effectivley move forward with that plan of action. I think my team blended so well together and they welcomed me with open arms so it was easy for me to transition in and jump to work on projects. Additionally, I got full creative freedom in my projects and though for the most part, it was more of a trial and error process to find the perfect design/flyer/marketing signage, I really got the chance to put my best foot forward with my skills and impress my teammates!
My internship experience at CHOP was the first time that I felt valued as an employee, and I knew I was working so hard towards something that would reward so many sick children. The first event I worked on, we raised over $615,000 for CHOP’s Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes! That was when everything hit me, this team, the donors, and volunteers are so passionate to help these kids in any way possible. I found it to be very motivating, especially when we would take trips to the main hospital and see some patients, which just pushed me to show up everday and do my best possible job. Though I didn’t have any money to donate like the rest of the attendees at our events, I would love my little interactions with patients to help brighten their days.
My team at The Foundation was constantly helping me improve in my skills and would always motivate me through my work. This team and entire organization will be missed deeply, but I cannot wait to see where else I go in my career.
Hi Sophia! I thought that it was very insightful and interesting how you were able to learn a variety of valuable lessons during your time at the CHOP Foundation and were able to improve both your professional and personal life from that experience! I thought that it was very interesting how you were able to raise so much money from your first event, and was able to become close with your coworkers and other employees, enhancing your work experience and being able to feel like a true employee rather than just a simple intern. I also think it’s a valuable experience to have creative freedom and hands-on experience with projects as it helps you grow as a person while also having the chance to include the work you’ve done in your own portfolio. As someone who has also worked at CHOP but in a more research-based department, I find it very motivating when you are able to help the livelihood of the patients and employees in this type of field. Overall, it was very interesting to read about your time at the CHOP Foundation and I hope you continue to work with meaningful organizations that help others!