The Andrée Collective Experience

I began interning at Andrée Collective at the start of the current semester. I heard about the organization through connections within my church, and my experience is nothing like I though it would be. When I think of interning, I think of grabbing coffees for the team and maybe assisting with a project. Overall, I have tried my hand in so many different projects because from day one, my supervisor showed immense faith in my work, which has been such an empowering experience.

Since the beginning of the semester, I’ve learned so much about the strength community can truly bring. Andrée Collective is a non-profit wedding planning organization that uses proceeds for employment and therapy for women that have experienced intimate partner violence. From the moment I heard their mission, I knew that it was something of which I wanted to be a part. I work on an entirely women team, and from day one I learned Andrée Collective’s tenacious drive to support women.

Since my internship began, it helped me to recognize that I have a sincere passion for non profit work, especially within topics of domestic violence and intimate partner violence. I get to work alongside other survivors and supporters and know that through our work we are working toward the liberation of women from abuse, which is so uplifting. The women I work with inspire me, and I hope I’m lucky enough to find a company post-grad that inspires me similarly.

We recently held Andrée Collective’s annual Celebrations for Freedom gala, where tens of thousands of dollars were raised in the name of their mission, which is so admirable. I see how hard each woman on the team works and everything that she contributes to the team, as well as all of the qualities that are crucial to hold as a woman in a leadership position.

I did not think about how my femininity could be impacted by interning, but whenever I am in-office, I can’t help but love being a woman while working with incredibly strong women. Affirmations are a daily occurrence from each person on the team, and I have just adored every moment of interning.

My best advice to anyone looking to intern – look for the meaning that resonates with you! If a company works alongside a philanthropic cause, make it mean something to you. If it’s a non-profit, make it for a cause to which you feel personally connected. It gives me a sense of internal strength and excites me for the work I do. Andrée Collective carries a message that I will carry with me in every job interview, career fair, or business meeting I attend, which is worth more than anything I could’ve anticipated.