The Network is pleased to share reflections from Molly Ziskind, a sophomore at Princeton University from Atlanta, GA, who joined us this summer as an intern. Molly supported projects that strengthened member resources, advanced grant research, and contributed to marketing initiatives. Along the way, she gained a firsthand perspective on the power of networks and the impact of our collective work.

Below, Molly shares her thoughts on her experience with The Network this summer:

Hi! I’m Molly Ziskind, a sophomore at Princeton University from Atlanta, GA. This past summer, I had the incredible opportunity to intern with The Network, an organization dedicated to building a global community of Jewish non-profits.

Before my internship, I thought I understood the value of networks, but I now realize that I hadn’t fully grasped their depth or the many forms that their support could take shape.

Over the course of my Internship, I contributed to projects that deepened both my view of this organization and my idea of a network. I organized the member directory and resource library, making this information more accessible for both staff and member agencies. I conducted research on grant initiatives across the network, discovering resources that could directly enable growth and impact. I also helped brainstorm marketing strategies for Project EM, an initiative providing comprehensive career support, and attended many of their sessions myself, giving me a firsthand look at how the network can empower individuals.

I’ll always remember how palpable the energy was across this virtual team, especially when I was included in monthly staff meetings held over Zoom. I was inspired by hearing the staff updates on current events, discussing how they could best support member agencies, and strategize about the organization’s future. After I saw their passion in action, I wanted to contribute meaningfully to their mission even more because I learned the power and potential that comes with being part of a supportive network.

As I’m reaching the end of my internship, I can see how much my perspective has evolved. I now see The Network as more than a series of connections. It’s a source of empowerment, opportunity, and growth. I could see that even the small contributions I made were a part of a larger effort that impacts member agencies and the people they serve.

This summer has been a powerful reminder of just how important community is. When organizations, resources, and people come together, the impact is far greater than just the sum of its parts. I’m so grateful to have played a role in The Network’s mission this summer and want to thank my supervisor Robin Farabee-Siers for all her support and kindness. It was such a pleasure getting to interact with so many members of the staff, and I know I’ll carry the invaluable lessons I’ve learned from them with me moving forward.

We thank Molly for her dedication and contributions this summer and wish her continued success at Princeton and beyond!