More than the possibility of molding college students into the next generation of professionals. More than the knowledge that projects that have been on the back burner can get new lives. More than the grunt, yes, grunt work, that will get done, I love my lemonade interns because they help me think about my business in new ways. They help me strategize on how to get things done and allow me to test new ideas. More importantly, their energy motivates me.

My internships are two-way streets. My goal is to get them excited about marketing, explain my marketing philosophy and get them jazzed about marketing’s role in companies. For me, I get to learn the latest and greatest trends and have a team that can put them in action.

My interns. My energetic, creative, and motivated need guidance, structure and management. So I have to remember to BE PRESENT. I have to take the time to answer any questions they might have and to BE THERE.  Being there is to give then attention when needed, praise when deserves and constructive criticism when they make mistakes. While they are working for me, I am working for them and great managers create employees who want to be part of the team forever.

I recommend all small business hire interns. It is a good time to grow your business and your abilities.

Yingying Gu, John Hopkins University Major: Marketing

Imani Flowers Villanova University, College of Arts, Major English

Elizabeth Raber Ohio University | Scripps School of Journalism Major: Strategic Communication