It’s hard to believe that my 10 weeks with CXC and The Columbus Foundation are coming to a close tomorrow. I feel so lucky to have had this experience, and my simultaneous feeling of accomplishment and there’s more to do makes this a bittersweet ending.

My final week has been a very busy one. I have primarily been finishing up my work with the CRM Salesforce and writing up packets on how to continue the work I’ve done. I had a few meetings with various members of the nonprofit’s executive committee to determine who will be taking up what tasks. It’s very important for my time here to continue to be valuable to Cartoon Crossroads Columbus even after I’ve gone.

While preparing to leave, I’ve come to understand the stark differences between being a fellow and being an intern. I am leaving behind a legitimate impact on this small nonprofit and it feels much more rewarding than prior internships where I’ve walked out of the door and that’s that. I know that my work at CXC has been valued, which is why I’m making such a stark effort to ensure its continuation and longevity after my departure.

Working with the Columbus Foundation has been such a wonderful opportunity, not only because of my time at CXC, but also because of our learning sessions and outings as fellows. I have made life-long friends through this program and expanded my professional network. Through one of the learning sessions, I had the opportunity to later connect with a CEO of a social enterprise and now have a potential job lined up for this fall. Through this program, I have learned so much about the workings of the nonprofit sector and feel so much more confident now about working in the field. A 9-5 job is barely a job when you’re working towards something you love.