As part of her requirement to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Gardner-Webb University, Isabella Karabelski spent her last college semester as an intern at Steps to HOPE.

Internships give students the opportunity to gain professional level experience in the area of their studies while allowing them to test career options and develop skills for future employment in that or a similar field or for higher education.

For Karabelski, working for Steps to HOPE provided a good opportunity to work with people who need help. She learned that “being vulnerable in one part of life can often lead to vulnerability in other areas and that domestic violence and sexual assault can happen to anyone.”

Karabelski received experience working in a professional office setting and learned a great deal about how a nonprofit organization operates. She gained confidence in herself that she did not have before, she said.

Steps to HOPE officials are grateful to Karabelski for the work she did as an intern and for her genuine interest in their mission to end domestic violence and sexual assault in the area. Officials know that she is headed for great things and would like to extend their best wishes for her bright future and say congratulations on her Dec. 15 graduation from Gardner-Webb University.

– Submitted by Paula Ravan