Bella's London Internship Adventure Whets Appetite for Career Growth
By Richard Burnett
After she finally cleared the red tape, packed her bags, and crossed the “big pond,” Bella Renshaw landed amid the wonders of London, England. But this was more than a sightseeing adventure for the Beacon College senior. She was there for business.
Bella was selected for an internship with Harmony House, a charitable organization that provides food, clothing, educational support, computer assistance and other services to children, families and older adults in one of London’s most economically challenged communities.
During the eight-week internship in June and July, she immersed herself in the organization’s work, distributing leaflets to residents, assisting with event planning, preparing meeting spaces, organizing paperwork, managing email communications and helping maintain community spaces. Along the way, she forged close bonds with colleagues and supervisors.
“Everyone worked so hard and cared so much about the population they were serving,” Renshaw said. “And they were such super-friendly people. They were so welcoming, helpful, and supportive. The whole time I was there, I felt like I belonged in London.” Rather than focusing on the routine aspects of the work, Bella instead was energized by the people, their dedication, and the opportunity to observe a well-run organization serving its community.
“This opportunity was really just a dream come true,” she said.
The opportunity began last year when she discovered the Harmony House position through Beacon’s Handshake platform, which connects students to available internships and jobs. After seemingly endless paperwork, she was approved to work in the U.K. Then she had a final interview with Academic Programs International, the firm that listed the internship.
“I felt like that interview went well that morning,” Renshaw recalled. “And sure enough, later that same day, I was going to an afternoon class and got the email from API saying I got the internship. I was so excited.”
The experience did not disappoint, strengthening her enthusiasm for event planning and reinforced her career goals. A Business Management major in Beacon’s hospitality and tourism track, she hopes the internship will serve as a steppingstone to a career in the field. The odds are on her side: International internships strongly boost a college graduate’s employability and salary potential in the market, according to research by Sage Corps, an internship development firm.
“The experience has added another valuable credential to Bella’s growing professional portfolio,” said Darryl E. Owens, Beacon College’s associate vice president for communications and engagement, who works closely with her as a student ambassador for the Beacon Salon Speaker Series. “Bella embodies the curiosity, composure and intellectual drive needed to thrive in today’s global marketplace. She brings thoughtfulness, professionalism, and a genuine concern for others to everything she does. I have no doubt those qualities contributed to her success as an intern and will serve her exceptionally well throughout her career.”
After graduation, Bella is considering several options, including applying for the Disney College Program internship or pursuing a master’s degree in hospitality and event management.
Whatever road she chooses, the London internship adventure will always be a memorable part of her story, Bella said.
“The biggest takeaway from this experience has been that I can definitely see myself in the event planning industry,” she said. “It has given me the confidence that I can really do this, including the networking and making connections with people in the business community that is part of that career.”
For students considering similar opportunities, Bella emphasizes the importance of taking initiative: “If I were to give any advice, it would be just to go out there and get your hands dirty. Don’t be afraid, put your name out there, make a good first impression, and be confident in yourself.”
