Part of our internship program involves each intern writing a weekly blog about a particular topic they’ve learned or discovered. Today, Claire Bailey, a 2016 graduate of Indiana State University, has tackled the blog:
As an intern, I have gained many professional skills working for a turnkey non-profit. From setting up every day on location or at events to managing and creating social media content, I have been immersed in every part of Nine 13sports. I knew that I would learn a lot this summer, but I didn’t realize that I would learn life lessons from Chris, Ashley, and Tom during the process. Honestly, they probably don’t even realize what they have taught me during these three short months. Thanks for giving me a chance to change kids’ lives by getting them to ride bikes.
Coach Chris
I don’t even know where to begin with Coach Chris. He is the Energizer Bunny who thinks he is an amateur comedian. I don’t know where he comes up with all the “funny” jokes he tells at the intern table. However, he does his job well while still enjoying himself. The life lesson that Coach Chris has taught me this summer is that I don’t ever have to fully grow up. Being silly is still allowed in the professional world.
Coach Ashley
Coach Ashley has taught me that everything happens for a reason. Her story of how she happened to join and build the Nine13 team is incredible. Everything just fell into place because she knew the right people. Also, she was brave enough to walk away from a profession that she didn’t have the passion for anymore and start a new adventure. This life lesson taught me not to waste time doing anything that I don’t love or enjoy doing. Life is too short to wake up being unhappy.
Coach Tom
Finally, Coach Tom has provided not only inspiration to me, but the whole city of Indianapolis as well. His success story did not just happen over night. He has faced his fair share of highs and lows in his life which helped to make him who he is today. Coach Tom has worked hard for everything that he has earned in his life. This fact has taught me never to give up on my dreams. As a result of his own blood, sweat, and tears, Tom has made Nine13sports a reality. Another life lesson that I have learned is that dreams don’t work unless the dreamer works too. Kids Riding Bikes would just be a vision and not a reality without the constant time and work that Tom, Ashley, and Chris put in each day.