One of the goals of RLF’s internship program is to offer students unique opportunities that are beneficial to their professional development. Since networking can be a great asset to young professionals, we recently developed a new program called “Mentoring with Monty.”
During each semester, our interns get the chance to have a one-on-one lunch with RLF’s CEO Monty Hagler and pick his brain about anything from current industry trends to skills valued by employers. Building connections and learning from seasoned professionals can help students tremendously as they begin their job search.
This spring, we are welcoming back former intern Amanda Limoges as a communications specialist, and introducing three new interns to the team: Carolyn Kuzmin, Marina Panagopulos and Erica Martin.
Let’s first meet Carolyn.
Carolyn Kuzmin
I am a senior marketing major and communications minor at Elon University. I am originally from a small town in Connecticut where I have lived the majority of my life. After I graduate in May, I hope to work for an integrated marketing communications agency, although my desired location is still TBD. In my free time I enjoy spending time with friends, riding horses and trying new things!
What is something new you have recently tried or experienced?
Elon offers winter term classes during January where students take one class every day for three weeks. It’s a great opportunity to explore something new, so I am currently taking “Dance in Worship.” I have no prior experience dancing, especially in a religious setting, so this has been totally outside my comfort zone. The class has focused on the history of dance in worship and the way it is used today. We dance every day and even have to choreograph some of our own dances. It has been a really interesting and eye-opening experience!
Do you have any hidden talents?
Although not hidden to those who know me well, I have been competitively horseback riding since I was six years old. I basically grew up in the barn around horses, and I have continued my passion into college where I am the captain of Elon’s equestrian team.
What food could you eat everyday and never get sick of?
I could eat breakfast sandwiches for almost every meal. There is something so satisfying to me about a bacon, egg and cheese sandwich on a bagel.
Tell us two things most people don’t know about you.
Most people don’t know that I played the clarinet through my senior year in high school. I was in my high school’s wind ensemble, state honor bands and I took private lessons for a while. The few friends that do know about this like to tease me about my “band geek” days.
Most people also don’t know that I hate soup. I always have and I’m not sure why. Even when my mom makes homemade chicken noodle soup, I refuse to eat it. I always have to remind her that it’s not personal!
What is your favorite thing about living in North Carolina?
My favorite thing about living in North Carolina is probably the people. Coming from Connecticut and previously interning in New York City have made me appreciate the friendliness and welcoming attitudes most southerners have. Southern hospitality is not a myth!