Learning the Ropes as an Intern

About the Author: Kelsie Sweeney is an intern at the Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill

During my first year at Elizabethtown College, where I am studying business administration, I attended many lectures presented by local business executives, including one given by Joe Murphy, CEO of the Masonic Villages. I was intrigued with his presentation, and he was my favorite presenter by far. After the presentation, I was fortunate enough to attend lunch with Mr. Murphy, which allowed me to learn even more about the Masonic Villages. We also spoke about internships, which is where my journey began.

I live down the road from Masonic Village at Warminster, and I was interested in studying marketing there. Unfortunately, Masonic Village at Warminster does not have a marketing team on campus. However, Mr. Murphy suggested I study at Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill because of their recent expansion. Luckily, I had the opportunity to intern at both locations; two days per week at Warminster and two days at Lafayette Hill for a total of 10 weeks.

At Lafayette Hill, I was able to attend multiple marketing events, which allowed me to learn more about what Masonic Village has to offer and their commitment to residents. I also had the opportunity to work alongside Bridget Harris, director of marketing and sales, and Mary Beth Meehan, sales associate, throughout the process of the building of the new addition. I would like to take a moment to explain how amazing these women truly are. Just think, on average, Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill welcomes an average of 18 new retirement living residents per year, but between the months of August and September, 71 new residents are planning to move in. Imagine all that paperwork…Yikes! These women work so hard at what they do, and I was lucky enough to help them prepare for this influx of new residents.

During my time at Masonic Village at Warminster, I was able to have more one on one time with the residents, which enabled me to learn about their backgrounds. I often assisted Trisha Lamb, activities director, in learning about each resident’s social history. The experience of sitting down and listening to their stories was interesting and humbling. It was exciting to hear about all of the large obstacles that so many of them overcame in their lifetime. I was also fortunate enough to work alongside Camille Miller, personal care administrator. She is an all-around great person and co-worker. If you ever get the opportunity to talk with her, I suggest you do so, because she will absolutely brighten your day.

My time spent at both locations was truly amazing. Everyone I came in contact with made a massive impact on my life, and I am grateful to have had this opportunity. I am parting from this internship with immeasurable amounts of knowledge and respect for the people I worked with.

Thank you Mr. Murphy and the Masonic Villages for this life changing experience!