By Gabriella Ruvo, Sacred Heart University ‘20
My first internship opportunity came about spring semester of my junior year. One of my greatest friends and staff members, Meg Keane, worked closely with a non-profit organization called LiveGirl. I absolutely loved everything that the organization stood for and knew it would be a great place for me to utilize the skills I learned in the classroom. When I tell you this organization is amazing, I really mean it - I couldn't have asked for a better internship opportunity. Meg put my name out there and I ended up connecting with LiveGirl's Program Manager, Alison. We talked via email and I went in for an interview, the process went fairly quickly.
I not only met the amazing Alison, I also met LiveGirl's founder Sheri West (an absolutely fierce and amazing woman). I look up to Alison and Sheri so much. I never felt more confident walking into a room, they made me feel so comfortable and welcomed. I want to share their mission because it's truly amazing:
"Founded in 2014, LiveGirl, Inc. is a Connecticut-based nonprofit organization that builds confident leaders. Our mission is to empower and equip the next generation of brave, inclusive leaders with the skills, community, and connections so that ALL girls may thrive and make a positive impact on the world."
Their mission gave me so much confidence to believe in myself. I admire the leadership and mentorship I received at LiveGirl because they let me make the experience my own. They pushed me to use my skills and to always believe in myself and my ideas. Because of LiveGirl, I discovered my social media skills. I never knew that I could be creative and crafty on Instagram, but LiveGirl changed my mind. From social media, to campaign work for their summer camp, to advertising for their events, and much more - I'm beyond thankful. They basically allowed me to build my own personal portfolio from the work I did for them, it's still so amazing to look back on what I achieved.
The LiveGirl team made me feel like one of them, they gave me the confidence they preach to others, and taught me so much about myself that I didn't know. Leaving LiveGirl definitely wasn't easy, but I know that I can always count on them now and in the future.
