With the spring semester nearing its end, Bushnell University senior Avery Lenssen is finishing an internship with One Hope, a nonprofit serving communities throughout Eugene. As a business administration major, Lenssen entered the nonprofit space for the first time and was unsure what to expect. The internship turned into something much bigger than anticipated, helping her discover a new direction for the future.
We connected with Lenssen to learn more about her internship journey and how it is influencing her post-graduation goals.
Internship Experience and Community Engagement
Lenssen’s path to One Hope came through a trusted faculty connection. “Professor Christy Silverthorne kind of attached me,” she shared, noting that after taking multiple classes with her, the opportunity “kind of just fell into place.” Entering the role came with uncertainty, though: “I didn’t really know what I was getting into when I walked in on day one. I had never worked with a nonprofit.”
That initial unfamiliarity quickly turned into a broad and immersive experience. Working in a nonprofit environment requires adaptability and a willingness to take on various responsibilities. “In the nonprofit realm you kind of do everything,” Lenssen explained. Her work has included editing newsletters, managing social media, and participating in meetings with community and church leaders across Eugene.
Through these responsibilities, Lenssen has built meaningful connections throughout the local community. “The connections I’ve been able to make with literally everyone around here is insane,” she said, emphasizing the relational nature of nonprofit work.
One of Lenssen’s most impactful experiences has been her involvement in organizing the United Youth event. Leading the event’s promotional efforts, she coordinated social media campaigns, facilitated Zoom calls with youth pastors, and worked alongside Bushnell to host the gathering. “I did all the social media… the promoting of this event,” she said. “Then to be able to go to that event and see all the kids worshiping and just praying over each other and for their schools was so cool.”
Skills, Growth, and Career Direction
Beyond technical responsibilities, Lenssen has developed strengths in communication, coordination, and adaptability, while gaining a deeper understanding of how nonprofits operate. Her experience also significantly influenced her long-term goals.
“I originally planned to go into event planning,” she said, but her perspective shifted after serving families affected by flooding in her hometown. “I was able to help families relocate… and that kind of pulled me into, like, I wanted to help people.” Drawing on her ability to speak Spanish, she found meaningful ways to support those in need.
As a result, Lenssen has redirected her career path toward disaster relief planning. Following her internship, she plans to attend EMT school and has already secured a position as head of disaster relief coordination in her hometown of Lynden, Washington, where she will respond to emergencies across the United States.
Reflection, Advice, and Looking Ahead
Reflecting on her experience, Lenssen emphasizes the lasting value of internships. “An internship gives you experience like you never had,” she said. “The connections you make are going to last you a lifetime.” She also highlighted the strong support network she has developed, noting that mentors and supervisors would readily provide recommendations for her future.
Lenssen encourages students to take full advantage of internship opportunities, particularly because of their flexibility and real-world application. “I’ve been able to balance all three,” she said, referring to her commitments as a student, athlete, and intern. “The hours are super manageable.”
Her time at One Hope has provided not only professional development but also clarity in her calling. From coordinating events to discovering a passion for disaster relief, Lenssen’s internship gave her a clearer sense of her future path.
To learn more about Bushnell’s business program and its academic offerings, visit bushnell.edu/business. To explore internship opportunities and career development resources at Bushnell University, visit bushnell.edu/career-development.