Ball State University senior Zoë Yergler, journalism and telecommunications major, spent the summer at Kankakee Valley REMC as an intern working with Communications/Marketing Director Amanda Steeb. We asked her about her summer with us.

What were some of the opportunities you had?

I didn’t really expect to do as much as I’ve done. I was able to practice photography at company events and out in the field, professional writing through the monthly magazine, document design through promotional materials, and social media marketing and management. I truly enjoyed learning the ins and outs of what it means to be a member-owned cooperative. And I got to see firsthand every day how the REMC puts their member-consumers first.

How do you think your time with KV will make you a better professional?

I think my time here has really taken the fear out of growing up. Before I started, I questioned if I had the right skills to do well. I placed a lot of doubt in myself in the beginning and now, after having done the internship, I realize I’ve far exceeded my own expectations. The only thing I ever lacked was the confidence to get started. 

What’s the funniest story from your time with us? 

There are too many to count, but the funniest was when I decided to take a boat ride in the pond behind our office. I had never worked a rowboat before, but I figured it couldn’t be all that hard. I floated to the center before realizing I didn’t know how to row a boat. There I was, in my office clothes, floating toward a giant water fountain in the middle of the pond. Lucky for me, one of the men in the metering department spotted me struggling and coached me to steer back to shore. 

What advice would you offer other students about internships?

Even if you’re unsure about it, give it a shot. Always give 100 percent and don’t doubt your abilities. Everyone must start somewhere.