By Denise Asker
The Auburn Hills Chamber of Commerce, celebrating its 20th year of business, introduced its internship program in the fall of 2010. Recently, the organization welcomed its first Oakland University students: Migena Topi, a recent Integrative Studies graduate, and Rachael Jay, a sophomore pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Marketing. Rachael and Migena join interns from Baker College, Michigan State University and Oakland Community College as part of the Chamber’s workforce development initiatives.
While Migena has completed her internship, Rachael will continue with the Chamber for the remainder of 2011 to gain the skills and knowledge she believes will help launch her career after graduation. Due to her commitment, she has been given a large responsibility to produce two large events: the Taste of Auburn Hills and the Auburn Hills Chamber Annual Golf Outing.
When asked about her interest in volunteering to this degree Rachael replied:
“When I entered Oakland University’s Business School, I wanted to be able to incorporate business experience into my career goals. The marketing program at Oakland encouraged me to reach out and look for real world experience in the marketing field. In my search for the ideal internship I found the Auburn Hills Chamber of Commerce. I took an internship at the Chamber to sort out my academic goals and zero in on what I really wanted out of my remaining two years at Oakland.”
Rachel added, “I have received more experience than I could have imagined and have been able to try my hand at program management, sales and promotions as well as strengthening my communication skills through community networking events. Without my internship and the direction from Chamber leadership, I would still be searching for my niche in the business world. The staff have provided an open business atmosphere that encourages interns to learn, develop and experience the business world. I look forward to the many other experiences I will have in my remaining months.”
Students and employers alike are encouraged to use OU’s Career Services website for help in finding and posting internships and jobs. Visit the OU Career Link to get started.
Denise Asker is the executive director of the Auburn Hills Chamber of Commerce.