As a fifth-year psychology major with minors in both sociology and chemistry, Nicole Briggs is combining her academic passions with real-world experience in an internship that combines education, community engagement, and non-profit development all into one summer position at the Learning Disabilities Association of New Brunswick (LDANB). 

Designing her own opportunity 
 
Briggs's journey to her internship began with a conversation.  
 
“I know Rebecca in experiential learning really well,” she explains. “I was talking to her about wanting to work at LDANB and she told me about the ‘design your own internship’ program.”  
 
Also inspired by a close friend who had worked at LDANB and found tutoring deeply rewarding, she reached out to the organization’s executive director, shared her resumé, and scheduled a call to discuss potential roles. From there, she crafted her application and was thrilled to learn she’d been accepted. 
 
Exploring future career options 

Internships are a great way for students to get a real-world experience in the type of work that happens after graduation, which includes taking on new challenges and learning new skills. 
 
Originally, Briggs's internship was set to include tutoring, a natural fit for her psychology background and her interest in potentially pursuing a teaching degree. However, plans shifted and she is now focused more on fundraising and social media. 
 
While the change was unexpected, Briggs embraced the new direction.  
 
“Stuff like that happens in life and you just kind of have to roll with the punches,” she says. 
 
Making an impact 
 
One of the most meaningful parts of her internship so far has been planning a major fundraising event.  

“Knowing that I’m working toward something tangible and that the funds raised will help provide tutoring for kids who can’t afford it, is really rewarding,” she shares.  
 
The experience has also given her insight into the non-profit world, aligning with her sociology studies and expanding her understanding of community-based work. 
 
An interdisciplinary experience 
 
Briggs appreciates the interdisciplinary nature of her internship.  
 
“I get to do a little bit of everything — tutoring, fundraising, social media, event planning,” she says. “It’s really cool to be involved in so many aspects of the organization.”  
 
Advice for future interns 
 
To students thinking about an internship at MtA, Briggs is enthusiastic. 
 
“1,000% do it and if you need help, talk to anyone in experiential learning, they’re all so sweet and helpful.”  
 
She encourages students to explore the ‘design your own’ internship program.  
 
“If there’s something you wish you could do, design it yourself. As long as it’s connected to your degree and you’re passionate about it, you have a good shot.” 
 
A valuable opportunity 
 
Reflecting on her experience, Briggs is grateful for the support and flexibility offered by the Experiential Learning Office at ������Ƶ Allison.  
 
“It’s a great way to gain work experience, try different jobs, and figure out what you want to do.” 
 
 Learn more about ������Ƶ Allison's Internship Program: mta.ca/internships