I began the application process for the CAPS fellowship by working on a personal statement which took me days – even weeks – to complete. Coming to Valparaiso University, I had struggled trying to simply decide what I wanted to study. Now I found myself sitting in front of a blank page on my computer screen struggling to discuss what my interests were or what possible career endeavors I hoped for in the near future. The only thing I have been certain of since childhood is my desire to help others. Throughout my life, numerous things such as hobbies, sports, and extracurriculars have pulled my attention in various directions. However, the one thing that threaded everything together was my desire to help people.

It was not until nearing the end of my internship experience and having an intellectual conversation with a mutual friend of mine that I discerned what it is I am called to do. Over coffee, this woman and I were discussing my current internship with Water to Thrive and the work I was doing. One of the things that I mentioned was how much I loved that I was working both in the field of communication doing community outreach, but also fundraising, which is more related to the field of nonprofit. I explained that I was experiencing the same amount of fulfillment as I had assumed only came from the types of helping professions that work hands-on with others, such as doctors, counselors, or teachers. The epiphany I had when my coffee date responded to this totally changed my viewpoint on a profession in fundraising.

Just because I was not providing hands-on help or services to others this summer does not mean I was not doing anything of benefit. Raising funds in order to allow these opportunities to occur genuinely was and is the root of all positive outcomes for an organization. At Water to Thrive, the work I did directly impacted the way that the business could run and to what extent their organization can help those in need. Just because this career field is one that is more business-focused does not mean that it is any less important and in alignment with the mission of the organization. Working at Water to Thrive was so eye-opening and only furthered my interests and desire to fundraise for a non-profit organization post-graduation. I have already begun applying for job opportunities since I am graduating in December, and without this summer internship, I would have never known how to narrow down this search.