What has been the most exciting part of your internship so far?
I’ve already had a lot of really exciting experiences working at SBN this summer. It has been really enriching to attend events where you can see first hand the convergence of legislators, non-profits, and businesses across a myriad of industries. The Entrepreneurs’ Roundtable was one event that really showcased what that environment looks like, with a Philadelphia City Councilman and a number of businesses in attendance. It was so reassuring to see a positive environment where folks could have constructive conversations about policy, as opposed to the chaotic arguments we see so frequently on the news.
Another event I really enjoyed was the Policy Forum on The Business Case for a Sustainable Economy, where I got to hear about specific ways businesses can foster a deeper sense of responsibility. There was also a lot of discussion about how specific public policies can work along side these business strategies. For a policy guy, the nuts and bolts are always the most exciting part.
By the end of my internship, I hope I can say that I made a lasting mark on SBN through the work I did every day. While it’s hard for any one person to make grand social changes under the umbrella of such a broad mission, and in only 3 months, I try to make everything I do count. Even though some days I may be doing something as seemingly small as designing an email template, I see every piece of work as part of the larger puzzle. If I can make sleeker looking emails that encourage readership, then maybe I can help our members expand their businesses, and in doing so, help Philadelphia to become the B Corp capital of the world.
What do you hope to have accomplished by the end of your internship?
Where do you see yourself in five years, and how do you think the experience you have gained at SBN will assist you in achieving that vision?
In 5 years, I'd love to be in a lobbying position where I can continue to influence the kind of meaningful change that SBN promotes. Working at SBN has allowed me to gain insight into the small-scale challenges facing not only non-profits, but the business community as well. I think this experience will provide me with a far more nuanced view of critical issues than I would have adopted through schooling alone. I've also learned new and innovative ways of thinking strategically in an organizational context, which is an invaluable skill for influencing legislation. The experience and knowledge I’ve acquired at SBN have undoubtedly given me a stronger set of skills that will open up new and exciting doors for me in the future!
The Good Economist 11