A taste of everything at WIHE.(Women in Higher Education )

Upon graduating from the University of Wisconsin-Madison last fall, I asked my English advisor Grace Krewson to recommend possible internships to pursue this spring. She immediately suggested Women in Higher Education. "They are great at what they do!" she said. "They will push you, but the experience will be rewarding. I think it would be a good fit."

When I met Mary Dee and Mary Helen in January, I knew I'd enjoy working with them. They were down to earth, passionate about their newsletter and advocating for women in higher education, and interested in finding a steady balance between work and pleasure. I could tell they were tremendous leaders and would be role models for me.

Although we got off to a slow start as I suffered the loss of my mother in February, they were flexible and accommodating, finding ways for me to participate from a distance. It was not until I started coming to the office once or twice a week, however, that I really got a feel for the intricate process that continually brings this newsletter to life. I never knew it was possible for two women to accomplish so much month after month, year after year!

With the help of their valued writers, designer and mailer, they continue to produce quality articles for women in higher education. Becoming a part of this process, I had the opportunity to see and assist in every aspect of the final product.

While I became an expert at stuffing envelopes, photocopying and organizing the office, I also had the unique chance to work with HTML for the official WIHE Web site, write published articles, proof the issue before it went to print and sit in on important financial decisions. Throughout my six months with Women in Higher Education, Mary Dee and Mary Helen also taught me many life lessons I hope to carry with me into whatever profession I choose.

Have a passion

Working with them, I found inspiration in their rage at the inequalities facing women in higher education and their wish to raise awareness of these disparities. They use their newsletter as a vehicle for bridging the gap between women and men. They want to see women succeed and they delight in publicizing women's promotions, especially those of subscribers and contributors. Their desire to see a change in society drives their work and their success.