English and history major spends APEX Fellowship planning events for Columbus’s Center of Science and Industry

Emma Shinker ’24, an English and history major at The College of Wooster, stepped out of her comfort zone this summer during her APEX Fellowship with the Center of Science and Industry (COSI) in Columbus, Ohio. Though she knew she would enjoy working in a museum or non-profit environment, she was unsure about whether event-planning would be a good fit, so when the opportunity presented itself, Shinker applied for the position. Under the advisement of Rebecca Williams, assistant professor of biology, Shinker learned how to communicate with different departments to coordinate events. She enjoyed the culture she experienced working for an organization that emphasizes the importance of education and accessibility. 

“My favorite part about the internship was getting to work for an organization with a mission I believe in. I really love working towards something larger than merely profit.” 

—Emma Shinker ’24 

How did you learn about the internship opportunity for your APEX Fellowship? Why was the position a good fit for you?  

“I found the position on Handshake, a job searching website the College gives students access to. I had been looking for an internship at a museum or non-profit, and had great memories of COSI from my childhood, so I was excited to apply. I was still trying to figure out what I want to do post-graduation, so I thought it could be interesting to try out event planning.” 

What interests you most about the work you did?  

“My favorite part about the internship was getting to work for an organization with a mission I believe in. My job mostly consisted of administrative tasks related to all steps in the event planning process, from brainstorming and researching to making sure other departments knew their role in events after they had been planned. I also helped with the set up for events, and shadowed coworkers in other areas of the museum, such as philanthropy and marketing and communications.” 

What are some skills you’ve learned that you see yourself carrying forward in your career? 

“This was my first time working in an office, so I learned a lot of basic skills regarding communication online and in-person in a professional setting, as well as how to attend meetings and the structure of a nonprofit.” 

How has the internship helped you to see what’s next for you? Has this internship experience changed your expected career plans or altered the way you look at your field of study?  

“This internship has affirmed my desire to work in a non-profit or a museum. While I don’t see myself doing events as my career, I really love working towards something larger than merely profit. Overall, I’ve gained a lot of confidence that will help me immensely as I begin to apply for jobs next year.” 

Posted in Experiential Learning, Showcase Stories 2023 on August 11, 2023.