SAEM Student Bess Saunders is a Special Events Intern for Allegheny County Student Profile
Photo by photography major Natalie Lacek '22.
Meet Bess Saunders '22
- Job Title & Employer
- Special Events Intern, Allegheny County
- Major/Program
- Sports, Arts & Entertainment Management
- Minor
- Digital Marketing
- Hometown
- Bedford, Pa.; Bedford Area High School
- Now Living In
- Pittsburgh, Pa.
- Hobbies & Interests
- Reading and yoga
“With an internship like ours, it’s incredibly helpful to us for our interns to hit the ground running. Bess and other Point Park interns have done that consistently.”
"Going to school in Downtown Pittsburgh has opened so many opportunities for me. Between all the businesses that are here and the many different events that happen, there is always something to volunteer for or a job opportunity."
What does your internship entail?
I go to different events around the county, such as the Movies in the Park at Hartwood Acres, the Summer Concert Series at South Park, and other events like the Car Cruise, Band Bash, and Dog Days of Summer. I assist in setting up the Allegheny County marketing tables and doing other preparation tasks like getting food for the artists, getting supplies, directing and greeting people, answering questions and setting up equipment.
What are the key lessons you've learned from your internship?
I’ve learned that having good interpersonal relationship skills is super important. Every day we are talking to the public and answering any questions or concerns they might have. We are building relationships every day and getting people excited for these events. It is also good to have quick problem-solving skills for when issues arise. You need to be able to act fast.
Describe the SAEM faculty and coursework.
The SAEM faculty are always encouraging. You always know you have someone in your corner. They have been so genuine and understanding when something comes up and have been incredibly helpful during the past three years. The coursework challenges you in ways that help you grow as a student and as an industry professional. Through different assignments, speakers and lectures, the things that were once challenging become second nature. The coursework is also diverse. You can explore different areas of SAEM to see what you love doing the most, and that is encouraged by the faculty.
What are your career goals?
My career goals often change, but I know that my dream is to work in a venue, preferably marketing for events. While earning my SAEM degree, I have had opportunities to tour venues, learn how they work and make amazing connections that will help me reach my career goals.
What do you like about going to school in Downtown Pittsburgh?
I love it! Going to school in Downtown Pittsburgh has opened so many opportunities for me. Between all the businesses that are here and the many different events that happen, there is always something to volunteer for or a job opportunity.