Name: Dalia Ibrahim
Class Year: 2027
Major: Growth and Structure of Cities
Minor: Data Science

Internship Organization: CollegeTogether
Internship Title: Student Analytics & Support Intern
Location:  Philadelphia, PA

What’s happening at your internship? We would love to hear what kind of work you are doing!

I am currently interning at CollegeTogether, a non-profit organization committed to providing affordable education by offering degree programs that cost less than the Pell Grant. Our organization operates as a mentorship program in partnership with Southern New Hampshire University, which enables participating students to earn their Associate’s and/or Bachelor’s degrees through the completion of over 50+ projects at their own pace (or an average of 1-3 years), serving as an alternative to traditional college coursework. Upon successful completion of the program, students are awarded their degrees directly from SNHU, a well-regarded online university with national and international recognition.

Picture of the office

In my role, I collaborate closely with the Head of Academics on various projects such as consolidating and cleaning student records data sheets, analyzing trends, and compiling relevant data. I also assist in using education-focused CRM software accredited by universities to improve data management and streamline communication processes related to student records. Additionally, I develop project trackers for each degree pathway and potential career options associated with those degrees. My responsibilities also include assisting with website building, preparing student content for newsletters, and supporting basic office organizational tasks and operational functions

Why did you apply for this internship?

I applied for this internship to diversify my professional experience beyond my previous roles in working for government and historical preservation. While I am currently working for a non-profit organization, I want to broaden my professional experience as a Cities major; I previously pursued internships in government or urban planning. Additionally, I wanted to gain firsthand experience working in an urban environment for local Philadelphia communities understand post-graduate life in a city setting. Finally, I was eager to learn more about the operations of an education startup dedicated to supporting lower-income communities in Philadelphia.

Was there anything special about how you found this internship?

I learned about my internship through a friend’s connection. Isabelle Gershon ’29, who heard about the opportunity through one of her courses and shared it with me. The founder of the organization, Oscar Kirschwang, is a Haverford alum who previously gave a guest lecture in one of my friend’s education classes, during which she obtained his contact information. She mentioned this to me, provided his contact details, and I reached out via email to inquire about available positions. Typically, Oscar collaborates with the Haverford Center for Peace and Global Justice, but since the position was still vacant and the funding deadline for Haverford students passed when I applied, I was able to secure funding through my Bryn Mawr internship program.

What is something you have learned from your internship that you didn’t expect?

During my internship, I gained valuable insights into the internal operations and planning processes of a non-profit organization, including the historical context and expectations that contributed to the development of CollegeTogether. Additionally, working with a start-up CRM software provided a new perspective on how a mentorship and education-focused non-profit functions. I also learned a great deal from my colleagues, such as my supervisor, Sanya, and the most recent hire, Leslie. Both are recent graduates (within the past two years) who completed their college education through the CollegeTogether program and successfully presented their job ideas to the founder, Oscar. Their experiences demonstrate that taking initiative and advocating for oneself can lead to unique opportunities and the creation of roles aligned with one’s passions. It never hurts to ask and put yourself out there.

Name: Dalia Ibrahim
Class Year: 2027
Major: Growth and Structure of Cities
Minor: Data Science
 
Internship Organization: 
Internship Title:   Mayor’s Office Intern – Office of Civic Engagement and Youth Participation
Location:  Jacksonville, FL
 
What’s happening at your internship? We would love to hear what kind of work you are doing!  

Civil Rights Trail Photoshoot

During my internship, I’ve been involved in several impactful projects. One of those projects has been applying for Jacksonville to become designated as a Civil Rights Trail City and completing the formal application process, cold-calling for endorsements and letters of support, and ensuring the application is up to the requirements and standards. Given Jacksonville’s history, I was surprised to find it hadn’t already received this designation. I’ve also undertaken research on redlining in Jacksonville and conducted interviews with a diverse group of individuals who are advocating for justice. These interviews included voices from various backgrounds, including pastors, activists, and community planners. I have also been involved in collaborating with departments and organizations like the Neighborhoods Department, and the Jacksonville Run Club. I’ve also represented our branch at workshops and youth career fairs. Our main focus is on engaging youth aged 16-23, ensuring their voices are amplified and that they feel included in our initiatives. A few other projects I’m currently working on include What Young People Want, State of the Union, Debates, the YES Summit, our Volunteer Program, research for the Mayor’s Town Hall, and the Legacy Project

Why did you apply for this internship?  

At Youth Career Fair

Last summer, I was a Historic Preservation Intern at Riverside Avondale Preservation, which sparked my desire to explore new opportunities so I was avidly willing to branch out to work at a different level. I applied for this internship because I wanted to obtain a first-hand experience in a government-entry level job within a major city. I was excited for a unique opportunity to gain a solid grasp of the inner workings of the Mayor’s Office and its approach to community matters. Jacksonville is unique in that it is the largest city in the United States by landmass and has a total population of 1 million; Jacksonville is a hub to a plethora of communities that I was eager to represent and work with, and have been proud to be a part of.
 
Can you give us three adjectives and three nouns that describe your internship experience? 

Transformative, Dynamic, Eye-opening Innovation, Outreach, Advocacy  

What is most rewarding about your internship? 

One of the most rewarding aspects about my internship was being able to engage with diverse clients and organizations while being a part of a very close-knit team affiliated with the Mayor’s Office. The specific branch I worked for emphasized hands-on community engagement rather than executive meetings, allowing me to make meaningful connections with Jacksonville residents, particularly youth in the community. I learned a lot about out-reach and the logistics it takes to start initiatives from the government side, and understanding the process and the reasoning on how some initiatives need time and others can be dealt with immediately. I appreciated the flexible hours and healthy work environment, especially collaborating with fellow interns in my age group. The professional relationships and connections I’ve built during this experience are ones I will value long after my internship concludes.