Internship Story: Sadie Works at Spurwink

Sadie Works, a rising senior from Waterville, Maine, is turning her passion for mental health advocacy into meaningful, hands-on experience. As a Wellness Advocate at UMaine’s Student Wellness Resource Center, Sadie is no stranger to supporting others. This summer, she’s expanding that work through an impactful internship with Spurwink, a nonprofit serving people across Maine with behavioral health and substance use support. Sadie is gaining real-world skills while making a difference in a field that deeply matters to her.

Why did you choose to intern at Spurwink?

I hope to work in the non-profit sector after graduation. This internship allows me to apply those values and skills in a professional setting and gain experience in a field I care deeply about. 

What are your internship tasks?

My first two weeks coincided with the end of the fiscal year, and I spent time researching and placing a large company swag order. I worked with two different vendors, comparing prices and quantities for the best value. I have also been writing blog posts for the company newsletter, The Spurwinkian. The topics of these blogs have ranged from volunteer/employee spotlights to foster family highlights. I am also working on the development, research, and application of two grants. My favorite task has been working with the Director of Development, Emily Williams, to create corporate partner gifts and the company’s Summer Donor Impact Report. In this report, I am highlighting statistics of populations and demographics Spurwink serves through the generous donations received and share a story of the Prom that was held for students with developmental disabilities. 

What do you like most about your internship?

I particularly enjoy the cohort days that are held weekly on Thursdays throughout the internship. These days are spent listening to guest speakers such as COO Bart Beatie and traveling to different Spurwink sites in southern Maine. Brian Thill, the internship coordinator for Spurwink, encourages us to make connections with each person and place we visit to help with the creation of our final capstone reflection project. 

What are the biggest challenges you face as an intern?

One of the biggest challenges was learning to be confident in myself without the structure of traditional academic grading. In a classroom, there’s often a clear rubric and constant feedback, which makes it easier to gauge how you’re doing. During my internship, I am supported by the Advancement team, but without grades or formal evaluations throughout the weeks, I’m learning to trust my instincts and believe in the value of my work. This is pushing me to become more self-assured, take initiative, and develop a stronger sense of independence and accountability. 

What things are you learning during your internship that you can’t learn in the classroom?

I’m learning how important small, day-to-day interactions are. How you ask questions and how you present yourself in meetings are not things you can study in the classroom. 

How will this experience help you as you move forward in your career?

My experience interning with Spurwink has allowed me to explore a career path I had never considered. Working for a non-profit was never on my radar. I always pictured myself being in the corporate world behind spreadsheets and numbers. Spurwink showed me that it is possible to do meaningful work while still staying true to what I chose to major in and my interests. 

Any advice to share with other students considering an internship?

My advice would be to say yes to everything! If you have the means, take any opportunity you are given. There is no substitute for real-world experience, and you’ll learn more than you expected. Also, make sure to always present your best self. Show up on time, be professional, and dress for success. Lastly, don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Looking for an internship can be an intimidating process, but once you’re there, take initiative and connect with as many people as you can.

Name: Sadie Works
Hometown: Waterville, ME
Class: 2026
Major: Marketing
Internship Title: Administrative Advancement Intern