Internship Title: Development Communications
Hometown: Miami, FL
Major: Journalism
Watch Amanda talk about her internship!
Why were you interested in the Development Communications Internship?
I’ve always been passionate about the arts and pursuing a career that encourages creative expression. Throughout my time at UF, I’ve gained valuable skills and well-rounded experience in broadcast and print journalism, but I’ve also become increasingly interested in public relations, branding, and membership development. As an intern, I knew I’d be able to further explore this interest while strengthening my passion for writing and storytelling, contributing to both my personal and professional growth. Much like art, communications combines creativity and storytelling to convey meaningful messages to an audience. My internship allows me to do just that, and I look forward to amplifying the Harn’s mission and highlighting the artwork, stories, and people that make it so special.
What excites you about interning at the Harn?
It’s very rewarding to help build strong member and donor relations at the Harn and to promote arts education at the University of Florida and in its surrounding community. When I arrive at work each day, I look forward to walking through the contemporary gallery just to get to the office or taking short breaks from work to explore new exhibitions. It’s truly motivating to be around such beautiful works of art, and I’ve gained an even greater sense of appreciation knowing the time, effort, and care that goes into an exhibition behind the scenes.
What’s your favorite work of art in the Harn?
Whenever I explore the Harn, Claude Monet’s Champ d’avoine (Oat Field) always catches my eye. I’m very fond of Monet’s works, particularly his Water Lilies series and his role in pioneering and popularizing the Impressionist movement. In Oat Field, I’m especially drawn to the techniques he used to create such a dreamy landscape. His distinctive brushstrokes add texture while his strategic use of light and shading add depth, creating a peaceful illusion of natural daylight. It feels surreal that Gainesville is home to a work by one of the most celebrated artists in history, and it’s become one of my favorite pieces on display!
What does a day in your internship look like?
As an intern in the Development department, I create content for the Harn’s eNewsletter. Each month, the Development department introduces a new exhibition, highlights a piece of artwork on display, interviews a staff member, or recognizes another museum. I get to select one of these topics to research and feature in our newsletter, and I love that I get to learn something new every day! I also help maintain member relations through birthday emails, which feature a piece from the Harn that was created by an artist born that same month. Both programs are updated monthly, so my main project involves keeping up with new content. When I have spare time or a break in my workday, I walk through the galleries and check out new exhibitions!
What’s something you like to do for fun in your free time?
Being from Miami, my favorite thing to do is go to the beach! I also love spending time with friends and family, trying new restaurants and coffee shops, working out (especially yoga and pilates classes), and I’ve recently gotten more into reading too!
Visit the Harn’s website to learn more about internships and application deadlines. If you are interested in supporting paid internships at the Harn, please consider making a gift of any size to the Expanding Student Possibilities Fund. For more information about supporting paid internships or other ways to give, please contact the Development office at development@harn.ufl.edu.
