Throughout my internship at The School for Moral Ambition (SMA), I worked on several projects that advanced the organization’s mission to encourage people to orient their careers toward positive impact. Most notably, I conducted extensive research on the feasibility of creating college chapters to introduce students to SMA’s philosophy, and I helped facilitate a fundraising campaign by producing animated content explaining the importance of the US Food Systems Reform fellowship. Both projects align with SMA’s mission. College campuses are fertile ground for expansion because they are where career paths are first formed. It was rewarding to work on projects that will shape SMA’s presence and to be part of a team where my ideas were valued during a pivotal moment in SMA’s history.

As a philosophy major, I seldom apply classroom theory directly to action, but at SMA I could. SMA’s ideological framework aligns with many humanistic philosophers I have studied, such as Bertrand Russell and Michel de Montaigne, who see inward reflection as a tool for outward impact. My philosophy background deepened my connection to SMA’s mission and equipped me to explain and defend its principles when needed. This skill proved helpful when writing a grant application connecting SMA’s philosophical framework with that of a granting organization. It required precision in argument and the ability to bridge differing convictions.

During the internship I worked on projects outside my prior professional experience. One example was student outreach meetings with college students across the country to gather insight for the chapter program. In these conversations I represented SMA while interviewing peers for advice and exploring how SMA might support their aspirations. At first I found these discussions intimidating. I struggled to steer conversations without making them feel forced. Over nearly twenty meetings I became more comfortable; practice helped me embrace unpredictability and enjoy genuine dialogue.

It was a pleasure and privilege to intern at SMA. Professionally, I honed skills I will use after graduation—grant writing, copywriting, outreach—and collaborated with colleagues across SMA teams. Working on the Food Systems Reform fellowship shaped my thesis focus on animal ethics. Personally, having admired SMA from afar, it was fulfilling to be part of it and work with people whose dedication brings the organization to life. I am grateful for the guidance and support I received, and I remain committed to dedicating my working life to positive impact.