Elizabeth Williams

Spring is the time of beginnings and endings. The warmth brings a sense of growth and newness as the cold and stalemates fade away. In previous years, I’ve only remotely noticed this season of change, blinded by my excitement for summer to start. With my high school graduation quickly approaching, this spring feels much more surreal.

Instead of succumbing to the famed “senioritis” as many of my peers have, I have been able to gain invaluable real-world business and nonprofit experience in the last semester of my senior year.

My internship here at the Greater Ishpeming-Negaunee Area Chamber of Commerce has flown by. It is hard to believe that it was 18 weeks ago that I began. I have accomplished quite a bit in that time frame, from researching the 200+ member businesses to physical office work. The GINCC has started to feel comfortable and familiar, especially with some adjustments to turn it into a welcome center of sorts for the West End this coming summer.

It was fascinating to discover the depth and variety of business in the area. I can confidently say that I am more passionate about our local businesses and better understand the positive impact they have on our community. The Chamber is a fantastic resource for those businesses, both thriving and struggling, to get involved in the West End and help and expand their business.

I have only one regret this past semester, the lack of community interaction during my time here, but that is something we all would appreciate more of in these times. To the future interns of the GINCC, I wish you luck as you navigate the Chamber and community environments and I hope you get hands-on with the West End!

I would highly recommend seizing internship opportunities to any high school or college student. Internships allow students to gain job experience, make professional connections, and meet and work with wonderful people who would otherwise be strangers.

Goodbye, high school and the GINCC. Have a great summer!

EDITOR’S NOTE: Elizabeth Williams interned at the GINCC this past winter and spring. She currently resides in Ishpeming with her family and three dogs. She enjoys cooking, reading, running, swimming, and going out for ice cream.