Major: Cognitive Science, Film & Media Studies
Term of Internship: Summer 2024
Position Title: Coach Development & Education Video Editor Intern
Institution Name: US Figure Skating
Internship Location: Colorado Springs, CO
Career Community: Good & Green

What did you do during your internship, (projects, duties, responsibilities, etc.)?

• Filmed and edited educational videos for coach education, creating instructional content that taught figure skating coaches specific techniques. 
• Gained experience in eLearning design, content flow, and translating technical skills into clear, engaging digital lessons. 
• Shadowed department meetings focused on coach development strategy and seminar planning, as well as the CEO and teams across social media and community engagement, giving insight into cross-department collaboration and organizational decision-making.

How did you find this opportunity?

I am on Dartmouth’s Figure Skating Team, which is sanctioned via US Figure Skating. I reached out to the headquarters and asked if they would be willing to do an unpaid internship

What skills did you employ and develop the most at your internship?

Video editing, content planning, athlete excellence, and overall non-profit strategy

Did this internship change or reaffirm your plans for the future? If so, how?

I wish to continue working for US Figure Skating after I graduate [from] college. I did not expect to want to stay, but it was one of the best experiences.

What academic, extracurricular, and/or professional experiences at and outside of Dartmouth prepared you for this experience?

As a figure skater myself, I brought in a lot of important perspectives. I am also captain of Dartmouth Figure Skating Club, which helped me to learn leadership.

What was your biggest takeaway from this internship?

My biggest takeaway was how interdisciplinary the workforce is. This job combined my love of cognitive science and film perfectly.

What advice do you have for other students looking for internships in this field?

Don’t feel like you already have to have expertise before the internship. I had never done anything like this, and they taught me while I was there. Focus on what is interesting and trust yourself. You got into Dartmouth; I’m sure you can figure out a few things once you arrive at an internship.