by Kayla Park
I am extremely grateful for my experience with APIAVote as the Virginia Chen Nonprofit Executive intern. During a crucial presidential election year, I wanted to help increase civic engagement and voter turnout, especially within the Asian American community – one of the fastest growing voter blocs, but one that both main parties often neglect.
Throughout the summer, I had the opportunity to work on the Development and Operations team with two other interns. We assisted with logistics for the Leadership Summit and Presidential Town Hall as well as several other projects relating to donor outreach. Even though the tasks were tedious at times, I enjoyed figuring out new Google spreadsheet tricks and learning about the more logistical side of non-profits.
However, as much as I enjoyed developing a routine in the office, the Summit and Town Hall events in Philadelphia were the highlight of my internship. All the sessions I staffed were thought-provoking, and I learned so much from the panelists, speakers, and small group discussions. The interns also had the privilege of attending private dinners with APIAVote partners and donors. As someone who did not grow up among many Asians, it was incredible to see Asian Americans who were also passionate about politics. It was very particularly inspiring to hear stories of Asian American women who had been working to increase voter turnout among the APIDA community for decades and were recognized as important leaders in their communities.
Beyond learning new spreadsheet hacks, I have gained valuable insight into the inner workings of sustaining a non-profit and the behind-the-scenes of large events. I now appreciate the importance of a collaborative work environment and the value of in-person connection. Most of all, I am so grateful for all the staff and other interns who made coming to work truly enjoyable. Everyone on staff was so welcoming, and supportive, and immediately made us feel valued even as new members of the APIAVote team. I also made lifelong friendships through this cohort of interns, and I hope to see many of them again in the Asian American political space. This summer has made me realize that I want to continue to explore the non-profit sector, and hopefully find a work environment as wonderful as this one.
