Gabriella Ann Tzougros 
Senior
Arts Administration major, Strategic Communication minor
Waukesha, Wisconsin

Where are you working this summer and what are your day-to-day responsibilities?
I’m the development intern at the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra. I love that every day is different. Day-to-day I work on the database, organize contacts, and write thank-you notes. But I have also been able to sit in on meetings with the CEO, organize a golf-fundraiser, and assist the Vice President of Development with a donor lunch. 

How does this experience relate to your major?
I have always wanted to work for an arts organization, especially one as large as the ISO. I had a class on fundraising and that piqued my interest in exploring the development side of the non-profit industry. This internship has been an awesome opportunity for me to really develop that interest into something I may decide to pursue following graduation. 

What do you like most about your internship?
I love being able to interact with donors and learn why they contribute to the ISO. Donors are so important to the livelihood of the organization and it’s been a wonderful experience to hear the stories first-hand of why a person gives. 

What advice would you give another student who may be looking for an internship?
Be honest with yourself and what you want and then apply to as many jobs as you’re interested in. The Center for Professional Success office is a terrific resource for help finding an internship.