Intern Insights: Reflecting on a Semester of Growth at getGFTD

Each semester, getGFTD hosts a group of interns dedicated to the marketing and writing aspects of the company. Covering everything from Instagram posts, day-in-the-life TikToks, weekly blogs, and website copy, each aspect of work reflects the getGFTD brand voice, style, and values. For a final reflection on the semester, I, a writing intern, asked other interns about their goals, learned experiences, most successful projects, and what advice they would pass on.

From a user’s perspective getGFTD is the perfect app for secure, online, and personalized gift giving. It is just that, but it is also a community of people dedicated to sustainability, shopping local, women business owners, and personalized gifts. The opportunity to work for a startup fintech business offers a unique insight into brand building and development. Internships grow and develop personal, professional, and civic realms, giving anyone concrete experience into a field. Research from National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) identifies internships as routes to job and a glimpse of talent from the employer end. Work-based experiences expand skills, networks, and social capital. 

In celebration and reflection on the spring of 2024, I’m here to share some accomplishments of our interns across a variety of class years. Emily (‘24) developed the trending items page on the app, a feature that highlights local businesses. Marty (‘26) worked on a website demo throughout the semester, culminating with a class presentation. Sophia (‘25) highlighted her art skills with specialized blueberry watercolors for cards and marketing materials. Leo (‘26) designed and produced wood-cut pins for the Relay for Life event. Emma (‘24) designed over 100 cards to be uploaded to the app platform to pair with gifting. Tianna (‘26) and Sam (‘25) produced comedic and lighthearted Instagram reels reflecting the five emotions of getGFTD. Catherine (‘24) drafted and published fourteen blogs. Each member of the team successfully gained experience in their respective roles, aligning with NACE internship goals.

For future interns, here's some advice. Here’s to another semester of interns and great success, building out brand ads and increasing awareness!

• Voice any idea you have; supervisor and founder Nina Guise-Gerrity wants to know your visions.
• Dedicate time throughout the week to work on short term assignments and long term projects; smart planning will pay off at the end of the week and the end of the semester.
• Seek feedback on work and be open to criticism.
• Welcome challenges!! You never know what you’ll end up mastering until you truly try. 
• Socialize and communicate with your fellow interns.
• Set goals to ensure you’re getting everything out of this internship that you possibly can.
• Be proactive about other opportunities outside your role. Be open to volunteering and expanding awareness.