A Young Intern Reflects on Her Semester at EHL Consulting
by Elizabeth Schrott
I often find myself asking the question of how I can find meaning in my work. How can I, a young Jewish woman, make an impact in the Jewish community?
Interning with the EHL Consulting Group has enabled me to begin to answer this thought-provoking question. I constantly find myself inspired by the team’s dedication, commitment, and drive to make a positive and sustainable impact in the Jewish world.
There are three core aspects that have been instrumental in shaping my experience at EHL Consulting: the firm’s dedication to the Jewish and nonprofit communities, the projects I have been assigned, and the collaborative work environment that I participate in. These uniquely valuable characteristics have enabled me to see various parts of the Jewish community that I otherwise would have never been unexposed to.
I have always been passionate about Jewish culture and education, and knew that I wanted to dedicate my professional career to enhancing, advancing, and supporting these communities and Jewish life in general.
However, as I was previously engaged in direct service or ground-level work, I lacked exposure to the “behind the scenes” functions of fundraising and development, work that is critical to these organizations. This all changed when I commenced my internship at EHL Consulting in October.
At EHL Consulting, I became exposed to the demanding process of fundraising. Partaking in client conference calls and staff meetings, I learn about the time- intensive and challenging development process. I am motivated by the dedication of the consultants and clients to commit themselves wholeheartedly to this work, knowing that it is a core tenant of organizational and operational planning.
Not only do I witness the meaningful projects that the consultants complete, but I personally feel that the projects I work on further the mission and goals of EHL Consulting. Whether I am researching emerging trends in Jewish philanthropy, formatting reports for pre-campaign assessments, or compiling spreadsheets of prospective investors/donors and Board members, I am ultimately helping the firm achieve its mission of advancing a culture of giving.
Finally, I feel fortunate that my first consulting experience is at EHL Consulting, given their positive, collaborative, and inclusive office environment. Since my first day at EHL Consulting three months ago, I have been welcomed and included as part of the team, and this has compelled me to work diligently, ask relevant questions, and offer support in any way I can.
My internship experience at EHL Consulting has unequivocally enhanced my understanding and appreciation of the Jewish community. I will carry the valuable lessons I have learned and will continue to learn throughout my personal and professional career, with the understanding that with these lessons I, too, can make a positive impact in the Jewish world.