Victoria Fanibi recently completed an internship with the City of Maple Grove. This is what Victoria had to say about the experience:
Working for the city of Maple Grove has been a fun and engaging experience. I hope that this short statement can encompass all that I have the privilege to learn this summer. Prior to applying and receiving this job, I did not have much of an understanding of how economic development is employed in a city beyond my Urban Planning education. I was privy to
idealized thoughts on the simplicity of the process of attracting industry and business. Luckily for me, I was able to learn the hard work and intricate networks that make the “magic” happen. By shadowing Carie, I was able to witness business visits where the city was able to build trusting
relationships. These business visits enabled me to view certain industries differently—medical technology and manufacturing to name two. Carie made it a priority to invite me to meetings where I could gain a better understanding of how neighboring communities approach economic
development and land use. This is where I got a full picture of how the processes for cities and
development may be astoundingly similar—and different.
I did not only go on business visits—in the office, I was set to task on a series of projects
that reinforced and strengthened my skills in time management, database organization, critical
thinking, as well as oral and written communication. Carie, my supervisor, excelled in providing
assistance where it was needed and providing the appropriate space to complete my tasks in my
own time. I was treated not just as an intern, but as a fully functioning and capable member of the
team.
I am very thankful for this experience. I am happy with the work that I have done this
summer and I am hopeful that the city and Carie is pleased too.
