This summer, I had the privilege of serving as a Digital Communications Intern at Martha’s Table through the Frank Karel Fellowship. What began as an opportunity to gain professional experience quickly became one of the most meaningful learning experiences of my college career.
Throughout the summer, I contributed to a variety of communications projects, including accessibility initiatives, storytelling efforts, blog writing, and the organization’s digital archive project. I also had the opportunity to volunteer in the Market and at Healthy Happy Hour, allowing me to see firsthand the impact Martha’s Table has on the community. These experiences showed me that communication is about much more than creating content. It is about connecting people to resources, opportunities, and each other.
One of the people who made this experience so impactful was my supervisor, Ashley Koon. I am incredibly grateful for her mentorship and for the trust she placed in me throughout the summer. By believing in my abilities and giving me ownership of meaningful projects and deliverables, she helped me grow both professionally and personally.
I am also thankful for my fellow Frank Karel Fellows. Over the course of the summer, they became more than colleagues. They became friends. Their support, encouragement, and passion made this experience even more rewarding, and I am grateful for the relationships we built along the way.
The greatest lesson I will take from Martha’s Table is that communication is about people first. Whether through storytelling, accessibility, or community engagement, effective communication has the power to make people feel seen, informed, and valued.
As I return to Xavier University of Louisiana, I carry with me new skills, lasting friendships, and a deeper understanding of how communication can be used to create meaningful impact. I am grateful to Martha’s Table, the Frank Karel Fellowship, Ashley Koon, and everyone who invested in my growth this summer.
Thank you for an unforgettable experience.