In February we had the absolute pleasure of welcoming Colette to the Strive team as our Administrative Intern – and what an impact she’s had! From her thoughtful insights to her steady presence behind the scenes, Colette has brought warmth, wisdom, and a passion for purpose to every task she touches.
Originally from Baltimore, Maryland, Colette is a rising senior at the University of Delaware, where she’s studying Public Policy & Administration with a minor in Disability Studies. With a deep interest in nonprofit administration and a desire to roll up her sleeves and learn, she joined Strive eager to gain experience in the real-world rhythms of a mission-driven organization.
What drew her to Strive? “Its commitment to directly serving and supporting the community,” Colette shared. With past experience working with young people, she saw this internship as a natural extension of her passions and an ideal place to grow professionally. And grow she has – taking part in recruitment efforts, outreach strategies, and even strategic planning sessions.
One of her favorite parts of the experience? Getting to bring her classroom learning to life. “Being part of a team working toward tangible goals helped me connect theory to practice in a meaningful way. It really affirmed that this is the kind of work I want to continue doing after I graduate,” she reflected.
Among her many memorable moments, one that stood out was watching Coach Tiff lead a leadership class at Strive’s Middle School Clinic. “As someone who was a very shy and quiet student in school, it was meaningful for me to see how she encouraged students to step out of their comfort zones. By the end of the class, students who were hesitant to speak up visibly had more confidence and enthusiasm.”
Working with Strive also gave Colette a deeper understanding of character-driven leadership, something she now sees as “leading by example and with empathy – creating a space where everyone feels respected, supported, and seen.”
Of all Strive’s core values, the one that resonates most with her is Know Thyself. For Colette, it’s a powerful reminder that self-awareness isn’t just a buzzword – it’s a lifelong process that helps her grow both personally and professionally.
Her advice for future interns? “Be open to learning and trying new things. The Strive team is incredibly supportive, so don’t be afraid to ask questions and seek feedback. You’re there to learn, and the best way is to just jump in and try your best.”