Hello, LSU Tigers! Many of us know the importance of hands-on experience, and internships are one of the best ways to dive into a potential career. Internships allow you to learn directly from industry professionals, build your network, and discover what kind of work excites you (or maybe doesn’t!). As someone currently interning with the Louisiana Automobile Dealers Association (LADA), I’ve seen firsthand the immense value these experiences bring.

Seek an Internship That Aligns with Your Goals
Internships open a window into the inner workings of an industry, and that’s certainly been true in my role at LADA. The association supports over 300 dealerships across Louisiana, advocating for their interests, providing education, and fostering professional development. Through my work, I’ve gained a unique perspective on how legislation impacts dealerships, how technology is changing the automotive industry, and how dealerships are responding to shifts in consumer behavior.

Understand the Value of Industry-Specific Knowledge
One of the most rewarding aspects of my internship is the specialized knowledge I’m gaining. I’ve learned about the significant role the automotive sector plays in Louisiana’s economy, which is insight I wouldn’t have gotten in a classroom. Industry-specific internships give you an edge by helping you build knowledge that can make you stand out in your future career.

Network Actively
Networking is one of the most crucial—and rewarding—aspects of an internship. At LADA, I’ve had the chance to engage with professionals and attend industry events. These connections are invaluable, as you never know who might influence your career or offer guidance that shapes your path. My advice: make a point to introduce yourself, ask questions, and follow up on LinkedIn or through email.

Embrace Diverse Responsibilities
In my role, I manage a wide range of tasks, from researching legislation to preparing reports and planning events that bring together dealers to discuss important industry topics. Taking on different responsibilities has helped me develop skills, clarify my career goals, and discover what I enjoy. Internships are as much about finding what excites you as they are about identifying areas that may not align with your long-term interests.

A Day in the Life of a LADA Intern
One of my daily responsibilities is managing LADA’s social media presence on Instagram, LinkedIn, and Facebook. Through our pages, I interact with dealerships by sharing their posts, celebrating milestones, and re-sharing community events. It’s a great way to build relationships with our members and show them that LADA is here to support their success.

I also track engagement metrics on Meta Business each month to see how our posts are performing in terms of reach, impressions, and follower growth. I recently launched a “Member Monday” initiative to highlight dealership achievements, which has been well-received and boosted engagement across our platforms.

Event planning is another significant part of my role. From venue scouting to setting up event materials, I help organize gatherings that bring dealership owners and executives together. I handle logistics like sending invitations, tracking RSVPs, and addressing any questions that come up. Attending these events has allowed me to network in person, oversee event execution, and capture moments for social media recaps. Each event is a learning opportunity, and I’m encouraged to bring new ideas and make improvements each year.

I also maintain our member database and ensure dues are paid, which involves a level of discretion in managing sensitive information. Additionally, I design graphics and write articles for our monthly “LA Dealers Do Good” feature, which highlights the positive community impact of our members. Through this, I’ve been able to share stories that celebrate our dealers’ philanthropic work and help LADA strengthen ties with its members and sponsors.

Advice for Fellow Interns
If you’re currently interning, don’t wait for tasks to come to you—take initiative! Dive into projects, ask questions, and show that you’re eager to learn. This approach not only helps you stand out but also builds your confidence and knowledge. For those searching for an internship, don’t hesitate to cold-email or message companies you’re interested in. Being proactive can open doors and showcase your enthusiasm to potential employers.

Overall, my time with LADA has been a dynamic, educational journey that’s given me a clearer picture of my career direction. If you’re an LSU student considering an internship, seek out one that challenges you to engage, learn, and grow.

So, whether you’re just starting to think about internships or are in the middle of one, remember that every experience is a chance to grow. Seek out opportunities, stay curious, and make the most of your time as an intern!

Cecilia Shahrdar is an alumna of the LSU Manship School and is currently a graduate student at the E.J. Ourso College of Business at LSU.