Student Internship Spotlight: Bridget Clark

Class of 2024

Major:

Interior Architecture and Design

Internship:

Office of Administration for the Executive Office of the President of the United States

Location:

Washington, D.C.

What were your primary duties and responsibilities?

Much of what I did dealt with personnel and spaces, particularly the Eisenhower Executive Office Building where many White House staffers work. I was part of the team that oversaw office moves, helped design new office spaces and surveyed buildings on the White House grounds to ensure everything was maintained well. From a design perspective it was really cool, because I got hands-on experience in signing contracts and putting together finished design layouts. It was a really cool experience — when do you ever get the chance to work this close to the White House? 

How did Marymount help you secure this internship?

I owe my internship experience completely to Marymount. I found out about it and was encouraged to apply by Jessica Bonness, who had emailed me about the opportunity. The reason the internship was even available was because the hiring team was led by two Marymount grads who had gone through the Interior Architecture and Design program, and they wanted a well-trained student who could come in and be a real asset to the team. It was thanks to that connection and Jessica’s nudge that I was able to get the internship. 

How did Marymount prepare you for this experience?

Marymount prepared me in many ways to take on a job like this. Design-wise, there wasn’t a single project thrown at me that I couldn’t solve. And thanks to my Marymount education, I never felt out of my depth. Marymount also taught me how to build meaningful relationships, which is really the foundation for working with others in professional settings.

What advice would you give other students looking for internships?

Don’t be afraid to start small. Getting a part-time job while at school or getting involved in networking events can give you some context about what the professional world is like. When you learn to communicate well and build relationships, people will feel more comfortable around you and think you are a natural fit in a professional setting. Also, remember that how you treat people is just as important as the quality of your work. So make it a point to learn how to treat others well and people will notice.