This academic year Aislynn connected her Beloit College education to the world off campus, engaging with real-world challenges that set an excellent foundation for future employment.

Aislynn used tools from introduction to sociology and design thinking because they helped her look beyond her own experience to examine problems from social and environmental perspectives. A sustainable cities course was especially useful when she worked on the city’s climate action plan. She also emphasized how her writing courses were “tremendously helpful since so much of the internship consists of writing in some form.” 

With the City of Beloit, Aislynn worked on a variety of projects — social media, a climate action plan, and an upcoming bike rodeo — which enhanced her creative and communication skills. She appreciated how this internship allowed her “to get out of the ‘Beloit bubble’” through exposure to different departments like City Management, Emergency Management, and Communications.

This internship provided insights into career possibilities and emphasized the importance of thoughtful communication and adaptability in a professional setting. Aislynn remains interested in a career in the nonprofit world, and would consider working again for a city after witnessing the positive partnerships the City of Beloit has formed with local businesses and nonprofits. Overall, the Community Fellowship offered a safe environment to learn and make mistakes, preparing Aislynn and other Fellows for diverse career paths.