Q&A with the School & Community Programs Intern

College: Eastman School of Music

Major/Minor: Music Education Major with Psychology Minor

Arts Background: I was a theater and choir kid growing up. I absolutely loved being in musicals and singing in choir concerts! In 8th grade, I transitioned to primarily playing the piano. I knew if I wanted to study classical music at a conservatory I had to focus my energy on one instrument. My hard work paid off as I now study music at the Eastman School of Music. I still, however, take advantage of every opportunity I can to direct and be in shows.

Why did you pursue an internship with the Kennedy Center?

As an educator, I have been able to help students on a smaller scale within the classroom setting. I was drawn to an internship with the Kennedy Center because I would have the opportunity to help schools and students on a larger scale through the work I achieve with the education department. I was also excited by working at the Kennedy Center because the education department’s main objective aligns with my mission: to increase access in arts education and make it a greater priority for students across the nation.

What do you do in your internship placement?

My primary focus has been working with the Changing Education Through the Arts (CETA) team to prepare for the annual arts integration conference. Prior to the conference, I helped to create and produce materials for teachers and administrators to use throughout the conference (i.e. tickets and maps). During the conference, I got to act as staff. I would help teaching artists run their session, gather necessary materials, and stock the classrooms among other tasks. The conference called for long hours, but I got to do fun activities and meet a diverse group of teaching artists. Truthfully… the experience was ABSOLUTELY AMAZING!

In regard to upcoming projects, I will be working closely with the Kennedy Center teaching artists to redevelop the teaching artist strategy. This project will include creating a database for teaching artists to measure the impact of programs. I will also be helping the education department to create programs for the REACH. The goal is to find innovative ways to engage the public and attract students and young people to the REACH.

What is your favorite project you have worked on?

I loved being involved in the annual arts integration conference! I got to be fully incorporated as a staff member at the conference, interact with the teaching artists A LOT, and even participate in sessions.

Favorite thing to do in the Kennedy Center: My favorite thing to do in the Kennedy Center is go out on the terrace to eat lunch with the other interns. I also like walking outside at the end of the day and seeing the tour groups and people trickle in for performances.

Favorite place to go in Washington D.C.: Explore anywhere and everywhere! My favorite place to walk around Georgetown. I highly recommend the path from the Kennedy Center to Georgetown because you get to walk along the waterfront.

Advice for prospective Kennedy Center Interns: Be confident when you walk into a room. The Kennedy Center may seem intimidating at first, but I promise that everyone loves interns here.

#KennedyCenter #KenCenInterns #Internship #Education #School #Community