Leading EDGE | The Student Perspective: What Two Summers Have Taught Me About Work

Want to learn more about the younger generation and prepare for future employees? Leading EDGE presents The Student Perspective blog series! In this installment, hear from Camille Koslo, Graphic Design major at George Mason University, on what she learned from two years of internships through Leading EDGE.

Being in TNPA’s Leading EDGE internship program twice has been such a valuable part of my journey. The first year set a foundation, and the second year expanded it, giving me more confidence and assurance in myself. It’s been great having not only mentors and managers to guide me, but also TNPA, opening doors and showing me what’s possible. When I reflect on where I started, it’s encouraging to see my growth. I remember being so anxious and unsure of myself during my very first project at my first job. Looking back now, I wonder why I was so worked up about it, but it shows me how much I’ve grown as a young professional.

Nerves Are Normal

Walking into an unfamiliar environment can feel daunting. It can feel like stepping into a tunnel with only a flashlight shining two feet ahead. That’s exactly how my first internship felt in the beginning.

And going into my second internship, I thought I’d be less nervous. But when the first day came, I was just as nervous sitting at my desk. At first, I questioned why. But then I realized even though I was carrying my past experience, there was still uncertainty. There were new people, new dynamics, and new challenges.

However, now I see that nerves aren’t a bad thing. They mean you care. They mean you want to do well. And that’s nothing to be ashamed of. But the trick is learning to channel that energy into excitement, looking forward to new experiences, and meeting new people.

You Won’t Get It Right Every Time

Sometimes I can be a chronic perfectionist. And as a graphic designer, that can mean obsessing over moving something a few pixels left or right, or even scrapping entire projects I spent months on. Sometimes it leads to work I’m proud of. Other times, it just leads to stress.

However, what I’ve realized is that the biggest obstacle is usually myself. I convince myself the work has to be flawless and the next best thing when really, it just needs to be my best. And my best grows over time.

Now, when I start to feel overwhelmed, I try not to look up at the peak of the mountain. I just focus on the next step in front of me.

Asking for Help Is Not Weak

This is something I still struggle with and always have. Even in my personal life, I’m very independent and handle things myself. However, it’s created a habit where I can spend so much time trying to figure things out by myself when I could’ve just asked for help. My questions could’ve been answered in five minutes, versus three YouTube videos and many Google searches later, had I just asked.

But over time, I’ve learned that asking for help doesn’t make you look incapable. It actually builds efficiency and relationships. You learn faster, and you build trust with colleagues and mentors.

There is no doubt I wouldn’t be here if it weren’t for my teachers, professors, supervisors, parents, and even friends. It’s those people in your corner that give you grace, their patience, and understanding that lead to growth. And not just growth in technical skill, but real growth. I owe so much to the people around me, and simply asking and reaching out has led to those relationships.

Making a Difference Is More Fulfilling Than You Think

I used to think “making a difference” sounded cliché. But after two summers in the nonprofit sector, I get it.

Even though I’m “just” a graphic designer, I’ve realized I’m also a communicator and connector. I love creating beautiful work, but there’s something much deeper about knowing that design can support causes I believe in. And I’ve noticed that people in the nonprofit world bring so much heart. Everyone wants to help and support each other. It doesn’t feel competitive; it feels like we’re moving toward a shared goal. Being part of that is motivating in a way I didn’t expect.

Looking back, I know I’m still learning every one of these lessons. I haven’t mastered them by any means, but that’s exactly what makes me excited for what’s ahead. I’ve grown in confidence and clarity, and I know I’ll keep growing. With each step, I’m becoming not just a better designer, but a better communicator, teammate, and person.

I’m so grateful to The Nonprofit Alliance for opening doors and possibilities I would’ve never imagined, to K2D Strategies for allowing me to see that there can be purpose in my work while laying a strong foundation for me as a young professional, and to TrueSense Marketing for giving me space to keep learning and connecting with amazing mentors. The people I’ve met along the way have made a huge impact on me.

The people are what make this field so special. And I can’t wait to keep learning, growing, and making a difference together.

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For Employers: Read more about how to work with Leading EDGE students.

For Students: Writers needed! Contact Shelby Truxon, Vice President of Internship Experience, at struxon@tnpa.org to write for the “Student Perspective” blog series. Read more about Leading EDGE internships and other programming.