Sharing the Intern Experience
WAICU summer intern Abigail Prudlow
Our 2025 Summer intern was Abigail Prudlow. Abbey joined us through a program called WAICU—Wisconsin Association of Independent Colleges and Universities. She is a rising senior at St. Norbert College where she studies Political Science and History. On campus, Abbey is in charge of programs such as the school's Mock Trial Team and the SNC Law Club. Abbey hopes to attend law school after she graduates and enjoys the process of collecting evidence to make a compelling argument. Below is a recap of Abbey’s intern experience:
My summer as an intern for the Manitowoc County Historical Society has been incredible and I am grateful for all those who made it possible. During my ten weeks at MCHS I learned what it takes to work in a non-profit and completed projects which built important skills I know I will use for years to come.
My summer included a personal interest project which was tailored towards my plans of attending law school, creating tools for diverse learners so that all might have the chance to enjoy the museum, organizing programming for various types of groups, and so much more.
Before starting this experience, I remember wanting to embrace it fully and I am so glad that I did. For me this looked like trying new things and saying yes to every opportunity that presented itself. Engaging in activities or conversations that I never would have considered before helped me build relationships and opened my eyes to new perspectives. One of these experiences that stands out is the work I did in interpretation. Dressing the part of a person from the 19th century and engaging with groups, especially younger ones, was something very unfamiliar but I am so glad I gave it a full chance. Interpretation has become one of the most memorable aspects of my experience and strengthened not only my skills in communication but gave me a greater understanding of the period.
Thank you again to everyone who made this summer possible, especially the volunteers and staff who helped me every step of the way. Thank you to WAICU and the West Foundation as well. Without their support this experience would not have been possible.