Intern Spotlight Archives

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2024 Summer Intern Blog

Posted on September 17, 2024September 23, 2024 by Philip Bartko Jr.

Digital Marketing Intern Joanna Sanders recaps her experience at Cheekwood.

Hello! I’m Joanna Sanders, and I had the wonderful opportunity to be Cheekwood’s Digital Communications Intern this summer. As a recent graduate with a degree in Journalism and a minor in Interactive Media from Middle Tennessee State University, I’ve built a diverse skill set in journalism, social media, and public relations. My journey has included meaningful work with local nonprofits like Corner to Corner and Craft Content Nashville, as well as a role as a Junior Publicist Intern at Music City Media on Music Row. One of my proudest achievements was seeing my story about Vietnam War veterans who are also renowned artists featured on the cover of The Daily News Journal. All these experiences have led me to Cheekwood, and I’m deeply grateful to contribute here.

Why did you want to be a Cheekwood intern?

As a Nashville native, Cheekwood has always held a special place in my heart. When I discovered this internship, it perfectly aligned with my career goals and passion for working with a beloved local nonprofit. Applying was a no-brainer, and I’m thrilled I did. This internship has not only enhanced my multimedia skills but also deepened my appreciation for nature, art, and the dedicated people who preserve them.

What is my favorite garden?

My favorite garden is the Blevins Japanese Garden. From the viewing pavilion, it reveals a breathtaking panorama unlike any other I’ve experienced. The bamboo trail and the soothing water fountain cultivate a unique atmosphere of tranquility. With a bit of luck, you might spot wildlife, including deer with their fawns or playful chipmunks roaming through the serene landscape.

What does an average day at Cheekwood look like?

At Cheekwood, every day brings a new adventure, which keeps things exciting! My routine includes exploring the gardens and Mansion to capture stories and footage, assisting with photo shoots, and photographing new items or sales in the Garden Shop and Museum Shop. I cover events by taking photos and videos, posting live stories on social media, and editing and scheduling content. Additionally, I create Facebook events, research trends, analyze digital analytics, and compile monthly social media reports.

What is your favorite part of working at Cheekwood?

I absolutely love working at Cheekwood, so choosing one favorite aspect is difficult. A standout moment for me was shadowing an artist interview during the installation of the new INTERVENTIONS art exhibition at the Mansion. Meeting the renowned British artist Ann Carrington, shaking her hand, and hearing her discuss her work in person was an unforgettable experience. Another highlight is working events like Thursday Night Out, Dog Nights of Summer, and the Under the Stars Concert Series. I was fortunate to be involved in every Dog Nights of Summer and Under the Stars concert, and I’ve seen firsthand the thought, effort, and energy that go into each event. As my time here comes to a close, I’m feeling bittersweet. The sentiment ‘Once you’re Cheekwood family, you’re always Cheekwood family,’ truly encapsulates what makes Cheekwood so special. Regardless of the role you play, big or small, you make a difference here. Thank you to everyone for your kindness and support throughout my journey at Cheekwood.

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2022 Spring Intern Blog

Posted on May 5, 2022October 24, 2023 by wordpress

Hello! My name is Nya McClain, and I was Cheekwood’s Digital Marketing Intern this spring. I started in February, and I will be leaving in May as my semester ends. I am currently a sophomore at Vanderbilt University, majoring in Communication Studies. I’m double minoring in Cinema & Media Arts and Human & Organizational Development (a mouthful, I know). In high school, I edited videos as a hobby, but my first formal introduction to editing was when I edited a biweekly entertainment news segment for Vanderbilt Video Productions in my freshman year. I have also been a member of The Marketing Group for two years, and I was recently selected to serve as president next year! TMG offers an educational and experience-oriented pathway for Vanderbilt students seeking a career in marketing. Throughout the year, we learn marketing techniques and implement them as we support a local Nashville organization’s marketing effort.

My time at Cheekwood has been so surreal. Each week, I learned new things and developed my skills in one of the most beautiful places in Tennessee. Despite my short time with them, the entire team made sure that I felt like a genuine member. Everything I did was valuable, and I learned so much along the way.

Why did you want to come to Cheekwood?

When looking for internships, I always ensure that the position will provide ample learning opportunities while allowing me to contribute my skills. Cheekwood was my first experience working at a non-profit organization and my first time marketing gardens and a museum. The nature of Cheekwood alone told me that I could expect several novel experiences. Additionally, I felt I was an excellent fit for the position. I have a few years of marketing experience, extensive writing skills, and experience with professional photography and videography.

What is your favorite garden at Cheekwood?

My favorite garden at Cheekwood is the Blevins Japanese Garden. There’s something particularly magical about it. Emerging out of the bamboo walkway and into the heart of the garden is like stepping into a new world. Every aspect of the garden is designed to elicit tranquility, so it’s my favorite place to relax.

What is your favorite part of Cheekwood?

My favorite part of Cheekwood is all the wildlife that brings the gardens to life and calls them home. Every time I’m on campus, I make sure to give the turtles in the Bracken Foundation Children’s Garden a visit. I also love to explore the art exhibits in the mansion. The displays are expansive and change throughout the year, so there is always something new to see.

What does an average day at Cheekwood look like?

One of the things I love about working at Cheekwood is that I always get to do something different. Most days, I explore the grounds looking for video inspiration for TikTok and Instagram. I also create videos to promote Cheekwood’s signature events, like Orchids in the Mansion and Cheekwood in Bloom. When I’m not making videos, I do things like graphic design, creating forms, posting event listings, and more. There has never been a dull day at Cheekwood.

What are your future plans?

After my internship, I plan to continue seeking marketing experiences as I finish my time at Vanderbilt. My goal is to experience marketing in different industries to identify the best fit for me. After school, I hope to become a marketing professional in my chosen industry.

Article and photos by Nya McClain.