Megan Korte

Responsibilities

I had the opportunity to take part in multiple events that ISU 4U Promise holds. I have been in charge of assisting with the organization and filing of RSVP information sheets, attending meetings in Des Moines, preparing parking passes, being a point person the day of events, creating and preparing event attendee name tags as well as schedules, and assisting with set up and tear down of each event. I had the opportunity to create marketing material for the events, especially their College Night. Working at the events, I have gotten to communicate with sponsors, caterers, and vendors, hired security, and managed estimates. Among other responsibilities, I also have been in charge of recruiting, communicating, and assisting with organizations and volunteers.

Accomplishments

My greatest accomplishment from my experience working with ISU 4U Promise would be gaining self-confidence in my abilities as an event planner. I feel I have created a trusting relationship with my internship coordinator and this has allowed me to take on more unique opportunities in the field. I have grown in my problem solving abilities as well as coming up with different ideas to present to the ISU 4U Promise team. I believe this growth in my self-confidence has really allowed me to excel in both my professional internship as well as personal life.

Learning experience

One of the greatest lessons I have learned from my experience at ISU 4U Promise is that as an event planner, you need to remain flexible and adaptable to new situations and tasks. Especially as events begin to get closer, time management to be flexible is key in order to fit in a last minute meeting, phone call, or unexpected task. Tasks will start to pile up if you are not willing to contribute as much as possible and the success of the events as well as the organization depend on your ability as an individual to adapt to any event planning situation that may come your way.

What advice would you give?

Internships are meant to help you get experience in the field, so you should try to make the most of anything that is involved. Try to take part in as much as you can and don’t hesitate to speak up if you need help, have suggestions, or want to experience a task that was not assigned to you at the time. Each member of the organization will love for new perspectives and they really want to see you thrive as a professional in the field due to some of the experiences and knowledge they have given to you. Just remember your goals for the future and enjoy each moment as they come about!