Internship Experience at Main Street Business Alliance: A Journey of Learning and Growth

I recently completed an enriching two-month internship with the Main Street Business Alliance (MSBA) in Hackensack, New Jersey. The MSBA is a public/private partnership formed as an alliance between the business community on Main Street and the city of Hackensack. Its mission is to address the issues facing the business community with the goal of improving the local economy and the overall business climate on Main Street in Hackensack. During my internship, I worked closely with John Peters , the Executive Director of MSBA. I chose this particular internship because of MSBA's dedication to fostering community development and economic revitalization. This mission aligns perfectly with my passion for supporting local economies. My primary goal was to gain hands-on experience in community leadership and strategic planning while contributing meaningfully to the organization's mission.

Tasks and Responsibilities

As a Business Development Intern at MSBA, I undertook a comprehensive research project analyzing over 80 Special Improvement Districts (SIDs) across New Jersey. My responsibilities included collecting data on their websites, services, offerings, events, and initiatives for their communities, business owners, and residents. I then compared these elements with those of MSBA and formulated proposals on how MSBA could better support the economy of the district. I created a presentation containing these proposals, which would be presented to the Board of Directors. One of the key proposals was a gift card program designed to boost the local economy. Through this program, people of Hackensack could purchase e-gift cards that can be utilized at all participating businesses on Main Street, thereby encouraging local spending and supporting small businesses.

Additionally, I assisted in organizing and facilitating the "Small Business Meetups on Main" at the Johnson Public Library. These meetups aimed to support local small business owners by providing marketing insights, social media strategies, and grant opportunities to enhance their storefronts.

Overcoming Challenges

One of the primary challenges I faced during my internship was synthesizing vast amounts of data from various SIDs into a coherent and actionable set of recommendations. Initially, the diversity and volume of information were overwhelming. However, I overcame this challenge by developing a structured approach to data collection and analysis, breaking down the task into manageable segments. Regular feedback sessions with John were instrumental in refining my approach and ensuring the quality of my final presentation. This experience taught me the value of perseverance, organization, and seeking guidance when necessary.

Working with John Peters : A Transformative Experience

Working directly with John Peters, the Executive Director of MSBA, was a highlight of my internship. John has a rich background in luxury travel, hospitality, media, and technology, with a focus on digital transformation. His entrepreneurial spirit, passion for leadership, and ability to build winning teams have driven him to success in various industries.

John's mentorship had a profound impact on me, both professionally and personally. He shared his professional journey, insights, and experiences, which broadened my understanding of strategic partnerships, digital strategy, and business development. His guidance and willingness to roll up his sleeves and get involved in the details taught me the importance of adaptability and continuous learning. Working with John not only enhanced my skills but also inspired me to approach challenges with confidence and creativity.

Achievements and Impact

I am proud to highlight several achievements from my internship. My analysis and recommendations received positive feedback, and some of my suggestions, such as the gift card program, are set to be implemented soon. These initiatives are designed to better support local businesses and enhance the overall business environment in Hackensack. The successful organization of the "Small Business Meetups on Main" also demonstrated my ability to contribute to community-focused initiatives, providing valuable support to local entrepreneurs.

Gratitude and Guidance

I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to Dr. Anita Rivers, Ed.D. , the Executive Director of Community Engaged and Experiential Learning at Fairleigh Dickinson University , for her invaluable guidance and support throughout my internship. Dr. Rivers not only helped me secure this incredible opportunity but also provided ongoing mentorship and encouragement, which greatly contributed to my growth and success.

First U.S. Experience and Future Goals

This internship marked my first professional experience working in the United States, and it was incredibly impactful. The exposure to a new cultural and business environment broadened my perspective and provided me with unique insights into community development and economic strategies. This experience has reaffirmed my passion for working at the intersection of economic development and community well-being. Moving forward, I plan to leverage these skills and insights to contribute to similar initiatives in my home country, Pakistan, and to pursue further studies and professional opportunities in this field.