Emily Weider, a third-year student at Penn State Schuylkill, has always been drawn to business, growing up involved in her family's trucking company. Her Co-Op experience at Northeast Pennsylvania Manufacturers and Employers Association provided valuable hands-on learning, from managing databases to enhancing marketing efforts with Canva. The welcoming environment and the skills she gained have solidified her confidence in pursuing a future in business.
Editor’s note: This story is part of a series profiling internship experiences of undergraduate students participating in Penn State Schuylkill Co-Op. For more stories like Harper's, visit schuylkill.psu.edu/co-op-stories.
SCHUYLKILL HAVEN, Pa. — Emily Weider, a third-year student at Penn State Schuylkill, has always had business in her blood. Growing up in Friedensburg, Pennsylvania, she was immersed in the operations of her family's trucking company, M. Weider Trucking Inc., from the time she was just a year old. Naturally, Weider chose to major in business management with a marketing option and a minor in corporate communication.
When Weider first learned about the Schuylkill Co-Op program during her new student orientation and through social media, she knew it was the right fit for her. The program offered a practical, hands-on approach to learning that resonated with her upbringing.
"I decided to head into the Co-Op program because I felt it would open a lot of doors for my future career," Weider said.
Her decision paid off as she embarked on an internship that would not only enrich her skills but also shape her career aspirations.
This past summer, Weider interned at the Northeast Pennsylvania Manufacturers and Employers Association, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping its members stay competitive in a dynamic economy. During her time there, she took on various tasks, from organizing data in the organization's Access database to preparing for its summer golf outing. One of her notable contributions was introducing the NEPA MAEA team to Canva, a tool that significantly enhanced its marketing and social media efforts. Weider even hosted a training session to ensure everyone could utilize the platform effectively.
Reflecting on her Co-Op experience, Weider was pleasantly surprised by the warm welcome she received from the NEPA MAEA team.
"I was not expecting to be taken in and accepted like I was. Everyone made me feel welcome and at home. They became like family to me, and I feel I have made great connections that I want to have forever," she said.
The skills Weider gained during her internship are invaluable. She learned how to manage and input data into a database, gained proficiency in using an electric typewriter, and developed a deeper understanding of office operations and process improvements. These experiences have solidified her confidence in her chosen career path.
"This internship has helped me tremendously when it comes to figuring out what I want in a career. I really like NEPA MAEA’s mission, and I feel that I want to be passionate about what I am doing when I obtain my future job," she said.
The Co-Op program at Penn State Schuylkill has played a crucial role in Weider’s journey, making her more open to new experiences and confident in stepping out of her comfort zone. It has also provided her with the tools to engage with employers effectively. Weider is grateful for the support of Kate Zimmerman, who has been a constant source of encouragement throughout the program. Looking ahead, Weider is excited about the future, armed with the knowledge and connections she has gained through her Co-Op experience. She is confident that she is on the right path and eager to see where her passion for business will take her next.
Describe a specific project/event/experience that made this internship memorable:
Weider: When I first met with Darlene and Eileen at NEPA, they expressed a desire to improve their social media and marketing procedures. I mentioned that I frequently use a design platform called Canva, which I believed could make designing flyers, social media posts, and similar materials much easier for them. They were immediately interested and eager to hear more about what I could offer the team. I ended up training the team on how to use Canva and helped improve some of their processes. This experience was particularly memorable for me because I was not only able to learn from them but also contribute something valuable that made a difference. I loved being able to use my creativity and having the support of everyone in the office.
Advice for those interested in joining the Co-Op program:
Weider: Go into the program with an open mind and be willing to try new things. Embrace all the experiences and don't hesitate to reach out to your mentors when you feel lost or need support — they are there for a reason. The members of the Co-Op program genuinely want to help you succeed. Also, attend all the events! This gives you the opportunity to connect with many professionals who can help you build a valuable network.
