Interning at the Workhouse: Fun and Unforgettable

Hello Patch readers! My name is Jia, a current intern at Workhouse Arts Center here to share my experiences from being with the organization this spring 2013. Sadly, my internship is coming to a close, but I am happy to say that in this short period I have learned a lot about the Workhouse, as well as discovering more about myself.

Here are the top five perks I experienced while interning at the Workhouse:

1. Rare learning opportunity. One of the greatest aspects about the Workhouse is that I am given assignments tailored specifically to my interests. As someone who studies marketing and has a passion for performing arts, the Workhouse allowed me to work in both the Marketing and Performing Arts Departments, enabling me to take part in theatre production and operations while also learning the secrets to success in the Marketing Department.

2. Meaningful work. Interns at the Workhouse are always hands-on.  From writing blog posts to creating research deliverables, I am regularly producing output that contributes meaningfully to the department and helping them with the big picture.

3. Well-respected and integrated with departments. Having a healthy work environment is personally important to me for motivation and dedication to a company. The Workhouse cheerfully welcomed me right from the beginning and the staff provides a comfortable, trusting atmosphere.

4. Starting from the ground up. Working with a small staff definitely has its positives. Joey Wallen, Director of Performing Arts, once said to me that he feels so accomplished when he’s completed a project from the bottom up. This is 100% true - by interning with Joey I’ve helped programs from behind the scenes to seeing them thrive on stage, and I’ll even have the opportunity to take more responsibility in our upcoming show.

5. Giving back to the arts community. My internship at the Workhouse came full circle when I wrote a blog post about my former high school band teacher and his ensemble. Being able to share local talent and covering honorable community events makes me feel thankful knowing that I am helping to make a difference in the arts community.

Interested in interning at the Workhouse? Workhouse Arts Center is currently seeking summer interns for the following departments: Development, Education, Marketing and Public Relations, Performing Arts Programming, Performing Arts Technical and Visual Arts. For more information, visit our website at http://workhousearts.org/about/internships.

THIS WEEK AT THE WORKHOUSE

• Annual Congressional Art Competition, April 12-May 26 in the McGuireWoods Gallery.
• Standing Room Only, April 20-June 16 in the Vulcan Gallery.
• Our Natural Places, aka OUTDOORS, April 13-June 16 in the Vulcan Gallery.
• Workhouse Farmers Market, every Thursday 3-6pm on the Workhouse Quad.
• Dinner & a Movie Nights: Mamma Mia!, May 3 at 8pm in the W-3 Theatre.
• Mason Cabaret presents: The Millennials!, May 4 at 8pm in the W-3 Theatre.
• May exhibitions in all seven studio buildings, Vulcan Gallery.
• Workhouse Prison Museum in Building W-9.

Stop by and visit us! 

The Workhouse is open Wednesday – Saturday from 11am – 7pm and Sundays from 12 – 5pm.  The Workhouse Prison Museum is open Wednesday – Friday from 12 – 3pm and Saturday – Sunday from 12 – 4pm.  Visit www.WorkhouseArts.org for more information, to purchase tickets or to register for classes.