By Rebecca Ingoglia
June 13, 2012

I am a junior at Eastern Connecticut State University studying Visual Arts and Design. In my Graphic Design class this past semester my teacher, Professor Bisantz, learned about this internship at New London Main Street and asked me if I would be interested in it. I have been working with graphic design since freshman year of high school, so I was so excited for the real world experience this internship would provide. Once the school semester ended, I made an appointment to meet with Joanne Gibson and was very excited when she offered me a summer graphic design internship!

So much has changed since I’ve been interning at New London Main Street. I’ve begun to get my love for graphic design back. Before this internship, everything seemed so repetitive. I would go from class to class and do the work for no real reason but to get the grade. Doing the work for New London Main Street has been so fun and exciting though. My assignments so far have included designing nametags for two different meetings and thank you cards for two separate events. I’ve loved being able to have my work printed and sent out. It’s exciting and makes me feel like I’m really helping to make a difference.

The second thing that has changed is my view of New London. When driving through New London before this internship, I always thought that the downtown appeared kind of run down. This view has changed completely for me now. Now I am in love with this town; it has so much going on. The historic buildings are beautiful and the streets have so much character. I have had the opportunity to explore the downtown when given various assignments, so I have gotten to see New London as an amazing town. I am so happy to be able to be a part of this great organization that is working to make New London even better. I really see all the hard work that goes into promoting businesses and producing events, and it’s amazing.

I have been interning with New London Main Street for almost a month now, and I love it. Everyone in the office and all the volunteers that spend time here are so kind and welcoming. I have been able to gain not only valuable experience with graphic design, but also experience with office work, helping with events, and photography – my true passion. I’m so thankful I was able to get this opportunity, and I cannot wait to see what comes next.