Seized Opportunity

The UGM MarCom team: Dave Wall, Danielle Davis, Jessica Morgan, Elisabeth Roginski, Barbara Comito & James Bishop

As I finished up my junior year at Washington State University last April, I was frantically searching for an internship. I came across one that sparked my interest, but after three months of interviewing, I didn’t get it. Instantly, my summer plans imploded.

I had heard of Union Gospel Mission through my church and served a few meals in the past, so when my internship fell through, I inquired about volunteering. One thing led to another, and Development Director Wil Wilhelm ended up offering me an internship in their Marketing & Communications department.

Interning at the Mission offered more than just real-world work experience; it provided the chance to work with and learn from people who truly care about their community. I didn’t just come to UGM, do the work and leave; I built relationships and became close to those I worked with. The community and amazing environment at UGM is something I will cherish; the whole experience went way beyond what I expected from a summer internship.

The Mission opened my eyes to the deeper meaning of homelessness. After meeting a wide variety of people and hearing so many different stories, I realize there is usually a deeper problem than just addiction. I no longer drive by a person on the corner and instantly judge them thinking they brought it upon themselves. Everyone has a different story on why they ended up where they are. That is also the reason I am so amazed at what happens at the Mission. They treat everyone who walks through the doors as a human being. They accept them without judgment and have understanding. Although I have always known somewhat about what the Mission offers, it is an eye opener to see it in action and witness what God does here every single day.

The staff was great. I was welcomed with open arms, and I could turn to anyone for help or to ask questions. I never felt like the intern who was just given the work no one wanted to do. I was trusted with work that had deadlines, and I always felt like I could voice my opinion in any meeting.

I’ll miss walking through the doors in the morning, greeted by Shelly at the front desk. I won’t be able to pop into Jessica and Danielle’s office the millions times I do trying to figure out Photoshop. I’ll miss all the people who stop into Barb’s office just to say hi and the mints that Jerry brings by every Friday.

This wasn’t just a summer internship to gain experience for my resume. UGM is a place I want to continue to come back to as a volunteer and one day bring my kids so they can be around a healthy environment while learning to serve others.

When the door closed in my face back in April, I was in a panic. Looking back at this summer though, I wouldn’t have had it any other way. Without that door closing, the door with more opportunity would not have opened. Thank you UGM for providing me with a summer of learning and laughter.

~ Elisabeth Roginski, UGM staff writer intern