Jenna Salhab, a fourth-year information science student, spent her summer as a visual communications intern at the National Coalition for Community Capital (NC3).
As a member of the communications committee, she played a key role in supporting policy advocacy by displaying the benefits of community capital across political spectrums and contributing to efforts to build coalitions around relevant legislation.
“My day-to-day work involved creating visuals for social media and the newsletter, promotional content for events like an entrepreneurial finance workshop and conducting research to plan for the upcoming 2025 event aimed at guiding community capital contributors of all experience levels,” Salhab said.
A highlight of her internship was the opportunity to collaborate with Katharine Gilman, the director of NC3, and her network. Through this, she had the chance to meet and learn from individuals like Nairuti Shastry, an educator and strategist committed to the advancement of racial and economic justice.
“[Shastry’s] extensive experience in supporting antiracist and anticolonial movements and her work on initiatives like Beloved Economies provided me with invaluable insights,” Salhab said. “Engaging with such accomplished professionals reinforced my commitment to using technology and communication to drive positive social change.”
Working closely with the communications committee and engaging with thought leaders, Gilman and Shastry have shaped Salhab’s perspective on how technology and strategic communications can advance social change.
“It has also helped me realize the importance of collaboration and advocacy in creating meaningful, lasting impact,” Salhab said. “This internship has solidified my aspiration to work in a role where I can use my skills to empower communities and contribute to broader societal progress.”
Salhab encourages interns in any field to take advantage of opportunities to grow and expand their skills.
“One piece of advice I’d give to someone pursuing an internship in this field is to be proactive and take initiative,” Salhab said. “The more you immerse yourself in projects, ask questions, and seek out opportunities to contribute, the more you’ll learn and grow.”
By Olivia Austin