As a Cook Honors College student at Indiana University of Pennsylvania and emerging media producer, Eynmarie has been busy with her summer internship in Washington, D.C. From grant research to cinematography, she’s diving deep into the world of film and media production, and her work at Anna Seed Productions via The Washington Center proves that internships aren’t just about learning; they’re about doing.
We sat down with Eyrinmarie to hear about her journey; her most impactful project and how real-world experience is shaping her career.
Tell us about your internship and a project you worked on that stood out.
I’m currently an Office Production Assistant for Anna Seed Productions, where I handle everything from filling out production deliverables and grant research to coordinating event photography, videography and video editing. I’ve worked on several meaningful projects, but my favorite so far was producing content for the Smithsonian Folklife Festival.
I had the honor of interviewing members of the Mohawk Nation and documenting their stories, culture and practices. It was powerful to connect with people so rooted in tradition, and it reminded me why storytelling – especially through a cultural lens – is such sacred work. I also got the chance to shadow industry-level cinematographers, editors and colorists, seeing their creative process up close and learning how they bring stories to life with precision and intention. That behind-the-scenes exposure really sharpened my eyes and deepened my commitment to the craft.
What are some of the specific skills and networking opportunities you’ve gained, (also challenges you faced and how you overcame them)?
I sharpened my creative eye, especially in production and visual storytelling. Networking with big industry professionals that work with companies like National Geographic, Discovery, PBS and TLC helped me see how the pros move, and it pushed me to elevate my own approach. I also learned how to put myself out there and network with confidence. Being in those rooms reminded me that I have something to offer too.
The biggest challenge in my internship? Imposter syndrome. Coming from a small university, walking into high-level spaces can make you feel invisible. But instead of shrinking, I leaned into what sets me apart from my vision, my values and the stories I want to tell. And the positive feedback I got? It affirmed that I do belong in these spaces.
What were things that you were concerned about when applying for the program, and what did you do to overcome those concerns?
Finances were my biggest barrier. Coming from a low-income background, the idea of living in D.C. felt impossible. I also worried about feeling isolated in a new city with no safety net. I overcame these concerns by applying for every scholarship and grant available and thankfully received an arts scholarship from TWC. I also made the decision to treat discomfort as a teacher, not a threat. Once I got here, I found community fast by staying open, present and intentional. This whole journey reminded me that fear can’t stop faith and passion.
What was your most exciting experience while at TWC?
The most exciting part was simply being in a completely new environment. Being surrounded by art, culture and creative professionals opened my eyes to just how much is out there and how much is possible. It reminded me to keep feeding my vision and continue pushing forward, even when the path isn’t clear. This experience gave me a real glimpse into the kind of life I want to build after this program...one rooted in creativity, connection and purpose.
If you received a scholarship, how did it exactly help you with the opportunity?
The scholarship I received made this experience possible, point blank. It helped cover my housing and gave me breathing room to focus on my growth instead of survival. Without it, I wouldn’t have been able to show up fully, much less thrive. It wasn’t just financial support; it was an investment in my voice, my craft and my future.
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