Ella Womacks

Responsibilities

During my internship, I was responsible for helping plan, organize, and lead a variety of youth and children’s ministry events. I played a key role in coordinating and running activities for Vacation Bible School (VBS), a multi-day youth camp, youth group nights, Sunday Kids Church, and special outreach events. I often led group discussions, introduced lessons, and helped create age-appropriate content. I regularly interacted with youth and children before, during, and after services to build meaningful connections and make them feel seen and supported. I also worked closely with church staff and volunteers—checking in regularly, communicating details, and using group messaging to keep things organized. At camp and other large events, I took on more leadership by managing small groups, guiding games and devotionals, and helping ensure things ran smoothly. On top of all that, I reflected weekly on my experiences and sought feedback to continue growing spiritually and professionally.

Accomplishments

One of my greatest accomplishments during my internship was taking the lead on organizing several events and youth camps. I was responsible for planning activities, coordinating schedules, and making sure everything ran smoothly. It was really rewarding to see the kids engaged and having fun, and I enjoyed building relationships with them through these experiences. Being able to manage these responsibilities gave me valuable hands-on experience working directly with youth and developing my leadership skills.

Learning experience

One of the biggest lessons I learned during my internship was the importance of flexibility and adaptability when working with youth. Every day brought something new, and being able to adjust plans while keeping the kids engaged was key. I also learned how crucial clear communication is, not just with the kids but with other team members, to ensure events run smoothly. Finally, I gained a deeper understanding of how building trust and positive relationships can really make a difference in helping young people feel supported and confident.

What advice would you give?

My advice for future students in Human Development and Family Studies is to get as much hands-on experience as possible. Whether through internships, volunteering, or practicum opportunities, working directly with people helps you apply what you learn in class and develop important skills. Also, be open to learning from every experience, even the challenging ones, because they teach you resilience and adaptability. Lastly, build strong relationships with your peers and mentors; having a supportive network makes a big difference in your personal and professional growth.