Blog 8-Final Reflection

As this project has come to an end, I have experienced and learned a lot more than I initially thought I would. Before the project, I had no idea what to expect, but I can confidently say that I was pleasantly surprised by this experience. As written in blog 1, my inspiration for this project was to, as a Browns fan, see the inner workings of the Browns organization, learn how the team impacts the community, and learn how I can become more active in the community to make an impact. I set these goals because, although I am not going into sports as a career, I have been a lifelong Browns fan, and I wanted to learn more about the organization. I would say that these expectations and goals were not only met but exceeded.

Through the three parts of my internship, learning, events, and research, I was able to experience many things, and expand my understanding of the Browns organization and the Northeast Ohio community. This was a great internship where always felt engaged. Instead of observing the processes as I have in past internships, I was able to do things with the people who work there, and also independently. The side research project, as discussed in blog 4, allowed me to spend multiple hours over the course of a few weeks doing my own research, and immersing myself into the topic of community relations and youth football. This allowed me to always have something to do during this internship, and learn in many ways. I was taught many things by my mentor throughout the internship. She explained many processes that the team conducts, I got extensive tours of both facilities, and I learned a lot about the department she works in. I felt that my mentor went above and beyond to make sure I was constantly learning and understanding more about the Browns organization. The events that I helped set up and operate was my favorite part of the internship. This was a hands on experience were I was able to help set up, interact with people from different organizations, volunteer, and more. This was an immersive experience unlike any I have had before, and I had a lot of fun and learned more than I could have imagined going into this internship.

I learned a lot of things during this internship, and I wanted to highlight the main things. I learned just how many people are employed by the Browns, and the wide array of jobs. Even in the middle of the offseason, so many people are working in order to keep the organization running during the offseason. Another big thing I learned is how many partners the Browns have in the community. The Browns partner with countless organizations in various ways including branding, events, and helping the community. Many of the other programs and organizations in partnership with the Browns are constantly working to positively change the community and help others. Through my side research project, I was able to research many of these programs within and outside the Browns organization. It is incredible how much work the Browns do in the community throughout the season and especially the offseason. Over the past few years, the Browns have consistently been ranked in the top five amongst the league for youth football and work in the community. After doing my research, it is evident how dedicated the Browns are to helping the greater Northeast Ohio area, and beyond.

One thing I feel that I missed out on during this internship is the big events during the summer. I was a couple weeks too early, where I missed the peak season for community relations and youth football. Many youth football camps and leagues all start in June, and these would have been great events to observe and work at. However, I was able to be a part of many great events throughout the month of May.

Some advice I have for rising Juniors and Seniors about Hawken projects is to do something that you will have fun with. Even though I learned a lot during this internship, I never felt disengaged. Doing something that brings you joy will help you learn a lot more, and have an overall better experience. I think it is possible for Hawken to partner with Browns in the future as they are always looking for student interns across their many departments.

My most important takeaway is that anyone and everyone can make a positive impact on the community through volunteering. There are so many programs throughout the whole years that a lot of people can help with. In addition, when volunteering with an organization that you are passionate about, every event is extremely fun and engaging.

I would like to thank my mentor Hannah Lee, and others that I worked with including Romie Graham, Zack Blase, and all of the other people I had the pleasure of meeting.