Each year, Blue Ribbon Foundation interns compile insights from their experiences to support the next group of interns. This may include a list of projects they worked on, lessons they learned, or things they wish they had done differently. The goal is to help future interns make the most of their own internship experience.
Here is a letter written by a 2025 intern to the next.
Congratulations on your internship with the Blue Ribbon Foundation! This summer will be a great learning experience and a lot of fun. The Iowa State Fair is so much more than just eleven days out of the summer, it’s a yearlong event. With this job, you’ll see all that goes on behind the scenes and have the opportunity to make your own impact.
On my first day, I remember feeling overwhelmed and unsure where to start. But don’t be nervous, you have a ton of great resources at your disposal to help you have a rewarding summer. Start by looking through my binder and my file under the Past Interns folder. My file will probably be more helpful than my binder, but I used both from past interns. Here are some more tips for having a great summer:
- When you have questions, try to figure out the answer yourself first, but don’t be afraid to ask someone else in the office if you need. I felt like I was asking a million questions at first, but once you get the hang of things, you’ll learn to trust yourself more.
- Don’t be afraid to answer the phone! I never liked making phone calls, but now it feels like second nature. You’ll get there!
- There is ALWAYS something to work on. I have never once had a day where I felt like I was scavenging for projects. Keep chipping away at everything on the Master To-Do list and, if you need, ask Drew or Robin what else you can do to help.
- Make daily To-Do lists, block out your time, and keep your stuff organized. I would also recommend using the phone message tracker notebook to keep track of every phone call you make and receive. I didn’t take full advantage of that resource and ended up wasting time digging through my notebooks to see if I had written down important information somewhere.
- Get to know the other Interns. They will become your lifeline when things get crazy!
- HAVE FUN! You will have days that feel long, but don’t forget to just slow down and make the most of your time here.
Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or want some more tips. Enjoy the summer, it’ll go fast!!!!
Our internships offer more than just a summer job, they’re a chance for students to grow professionally and build valuable connections for their future careers. If you know a college student looking for a summer internship, please share this opportunity with them. Applications are due by November 30.
2026 Blue Ribbon Foundation Internship Information
