A student in the Public Administration program with a minor in Nonprofit Management, Kirsten Hanes completed her internship with the United Way of Davidson County in Lexington, North Carolina. As an intern, she was able to work with her site supervisor to bring together community resources to identify and meet the human service needs in Davidson County through responsible leadership. Kirsten had this to say about her internship experience:
"There were so many great things to take away from my internship, but if I had to narrow it down, I would say I most enjoyed working with the partner agencies and networking with leaders in the community. I met with almost 29 different nonprofits in the community and gained so much hands on experience in the workplace. My site supervisor was such a great influence and ensured that I had the best and most beneficial experience. She set up times for me to meet with the Mayor, City managers, Executive Directors, Candidates running in law enforcement campaigns, and more! I could not have had a better experience with United Way! I plan to enroll in ASU's MPA program in 2020. My career plans include working in the field of nonprofit and working my way up to an Executive Director position. Long term I would like to start my own nonprofit that would provide aid and services to third world countries. After I graduate in May, I will be heading to South Africa to fulfill a 6 month stay at a small nonprofit orphanage. I will live and work at the orphanage providing care for the infants, learning how to coordinate with volunteers, and seeing the resources it takes to build relationships across the globe. I look forward to my experience and know that it will contribute towards my future goals and career!"