Student Spotlight: CU-Lock Haven’s Anna Collins Gets Hands-On Experience Through Internship with Clinton County Commissioners

By Emily Wright

LOCK HAVEN— At Commonwealth University-Lock Haven, one standout student is making notable strides in her education through work she’s completed within the Clinton County government. Anna Collins, a rising senior majoring in Psychology, will soon complete her internship with the Clinton County Commissioners. Through her internship, Collins gained a well-rounded learning experience that combined human resources, community development, and local government operations.

Collins is originally from Port Matilda, however, she mentioned that her parents recently relocated to Mill Hall. Her career aspirations are to work in human resources, focusing on community development and employee engagement. She demonstrates her dedication to both her academic pursuits and extracurricular activities as an active member of the Women’s Lacrosse team and Vice President of the Student Veterans Alliance at CU-Lock Haven University. 

Collins’ internship with the Clinton County Commissioners, which began at the start of her summer break and will end on August 9, 2024, provided her with an opportunity to gain practical experience. At the outset, her aspirations for the internship ranged from refining her communication and organizational skills to mastering computer programs such as Excel and the Microsoft Office suite. 

Much to her surprise, the internship offered considerably more than Collins anticipated. “One of the most surprising aspects of my internship has been the level of involvement I’ve had in significant projects,” Collins reflected. “I did not expect to be so integrally involved in planning and executing community events.” Collins happily reports that her internship experience surpassed her expectations in terms of the level of trust and responsibility placed on her. 

Working closely with Commissioner Angela Harding, Collins took part in a variety of meaningful projects, gaining hands-on experience along the way. “These projects have provided insights into the complexities of county government and community issues. For example, assisting in planning employee recognition events has given me practical experience in event management and employee engagement strategies,” she explained. 

Collins also had the opportunity to tag along with Commissioner Harding to various meetings, which provided her with opportunities to witness and learn about county decision-making processes. “Accompanying Commissioner Harding to meetings has been particularly enlightening, as it has allowed me to see the firsthand decision-making processes and the impacts of county government on the community,” she shared.

Collins noted that she was pleasantly surprised by the atmosphere within the county office, which she described as very supportive and collaborative– an environment that provided her with a foundation to continue to grow her skills and confidence.

Through her internship, Collins gained more than just operational know-how; she cultivated a deep understanding and appreciation for the intricate workings of local government. “My experience has given me a profound appreciation for the role of local government,” she said. “I have seen the dedication and hard work that goes into making decisions that affect the community. It has also highlighted the importance of transparency, communication, and community involvement in government processes.”

Equipped with practical experience in human resources, event planning, and much more, Collins looks to the future with a renewed sense of confidence and says she plans to apply the skills and knowledge she’s gained through her internship in her future career. “I am more confident in my ability to contribute effectively in a professional setting and am excited to continue developing my career in public service, aiming to make a positive impact on my community,” she said.

As her internship comes to a close, Collins reflects on the profound impact it has had on her professional and personal growth. “My internship with the Clinton County Commissioners has been an incredibly rewarding experience. It has provided me with practical skills, valuable insights, and a deeper understanding of the important role of local government. I am grateful for the opportunity and look forward to utilizing these experiences in my future endeavors.”

Collins stands as a testament to the power of internships in shaping future leaders. Her journey as an intern underscores the vital role that local government and community development play in fostering well-rounded, engaged citizens who are eager to make a positive impact. As she prepares for her senior year at CU-Lock Haven University, the community anticipates the continuing contributions of this promising young leader.