Global Spotlight: Mia Aufmuth '28 Intern

Mia Aufmuth '28 (BSBA Business Management with minor in Fashion Industry Science & Technology) interned at International Institute for Active Ageing in London, UK.

If you worked on a big project during your internship, please describe what you did to help. 

One of my biggest projects was creating a full campaign for the launch of a new product, their powder health supplement Integrate 28. I designed everything from the PR event decorations to a creative brief that outlined my visuals, and overall concept for the product. It was exciting to have full creative freedom while still working within the brand’s goals. I pulled together ideas that blended wellness with a sleek, modern feel and thought through every detail from the guest experience to how the product would be positioned in the market. The most rewarding part of this was seeing it brought to life in actual props for the event and in the slogans, I developed being incorporated into the branding.

What did you find most challenging about your internship? 

The most challenging part was learning how to manage my time when I had big creative ideas that each needed individual focus. I wanted to give my all to every detail, but I had to learn to prioritize what would make the biggest impact first. Finding the balance between creativity and practicality was a real growth moment for me. It pushed me to think about projects strategically instead of getting caught up in perfecting everything at once.

What advice do you have for other students that are also considering interning abroad? 

Don’t save anything for the “right time.” Abroad will be over before you even realize it happened, and before you’re ready for it to end. If there’s somewhere you want to see, a restaurant you’re dying to try, or a museum you’ve been meaning to visit, go now. Don’t put off the things that make you happy. There’s no right or wrong way to do an abroad experience, all that matters is that you leave feeling like you truly made the most of it.

How did Eller (or your previous coursework) prepare you for your internship? 

Eller made me comfortable in who I am in a professional setting. The clubs and opportunities at Eller prepared me in ways I didn’t even expect, from mock interviews to public speaking practice. Those experiences gave me the confidence to share ideas, lead projects, and adapt quickly in a new environment. I don’t think I would have been nearly as prepared for the real world without them.