When I first accepted my internship with WCM, I knew that I’d be stepping into a role that I hadn’t been in since I was previously in college over a decade ago. Having spent that decade in leadership roles, I was used to being at the center of decision-making, crafting narratives that would shape my organization’s mission and—sometimes—livelihood. Now, as an intern working just 10 hours a week, I’m diving into “behind-the-scenes” tasks: data entry, researching funding opportunities, and learning the systems that keep WCM running. I’ll admit, I was a bit nervous. Would this feel like too much of a step back after leading organizations?
But what I’ve learned over the past few years is that communication is the thread that connects every part of an organization. It is the lubrication that keeps an organization’s engine running smoothly. Whether I’m organizing data or drafting an email, every task weaves into a larger story—one that lets coaches focus on helping students find their voice. Writing, in this broader sense, isn’t just about composing words; it’s about clarity, precision, and connection.
Reflecting on my transition from Executive Director to intern, I’ve come to gain a deeper appreciation for the interdependence of roles in education and nonprofit work. As a leader, I was always focused on outcomes: successful programs, happy investors, funded grants, and cohesive messaging. Now, as an intern handling tasks like data entry or researching funding opportunities, I see how small acts of communication fuel those goals. Every organized list, every clear email, every system update serves as the quiet glue binding an organization’s efforts. It’s a humbling reminder that writing isn’t confined simply to polished reports or published work—it lives in every corner of an organization.
As a Communications major, this hits home. It reinforces the idea that writing and communication are not purely academic exercises. They are practical, vital tools that shape how people learn, collaborate, and achieve shared goals—after college and beyond. Even as “just an intern”, I am still part of a non-profit’s lifeblood, supporting volunteers who help kids shine.
This work has already deepened my respect for the coaches and volunteers who pour their hearts into students. Their efforts show why communication matters: it builds bridges between ideas and people. As we head into Thanksgiving, I’m grateful for this reminder: no task is too small to shape a bigger mission. Whether you’re an intern like me, a volunteer, or a supporter, every act of communication helps a mission thrive. I’m excited to keep learning, contributing my small part to a cause that transforms lives through writing.
