Thomas Beeby, a senior Paterno Fellow and Schreyer Honors Scholar, is double majoring in economics and political science. Last summer, Beeby interned for the Penn State Division of Development and Alumni Relations (DDAR).
As a member of the DDAR summer internship program, Beeby worked in the volunteer programs office Monday through Thursday, and on Fridays, he participated in professional development workshops and trips. While working with the Volunteer Programs office, Beeby learned how to communicate with and plan events to recognize Penn State volunteers, as well as helping with the development of the Volunteer Programs website. “The skills learned in this internship apply to almost every field and are not limited to just careers in development,” said Beeby.
Beeby is thankful for the funding from the Career Enrichment Network in the College of the Liberal Arts as it played a major role in making the experience as rewarding as it was because it enabled him to focus on the internship. He did not have to get a part-time job to provide money for housing and weekly groceries. Beeby also credits the Career Enrichment Network with challenging him to achieve his potential both academically and in extracurricular activities.
“The best part of the experience was gaining a greater appreciation for different components of the University by seeing the impact of philanthropy firsthand. The people of Penn State are truly what makes our institution as great as it is, and I am proud to say I was able to interact with them this summer,” said Beeby.
The personal and professional development opportunities available through the internship helped Beeby clarify his career goals. Prior to his internship with DDAR, Beeby planned to go to law school and become an attorney. However, now Beeby hopes to stay in Happy Valley and get his MBA from the Smeal College of Business after graduation. Beeby then plans to go on to pursue a career in consulting or finance.
Anyone who would like to help Liberal Arts students pursue internships, study abroad, research, and other enrichment experiences, may visit the College of the Liberal Arts’ Giving Tuesday page and give to the Liberal Arts Edge Fund on Tuesday, Nov. 27. Graduates of the last decade can double their impact because the University will match their gifts up to $100 on Giving Tuesday.