Written by Reagan Macey, marketing major at the Gary W. Rollins College of Business at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga.
As a first-generation college student from Chattanooga, I have always been drawn to opportunities that make a meaningful impact in my community. As a marketing major at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, I found that opportunity through my internship with Freedom Sings USA.
Freedom Sings connects veterans with professional songwriters to transform stories of service, sacrifice and resilience into original songs. Veterans are given a voice, connection and a chance to share experiences that might otherwise go unheard. As a marketing intern, I help by creating social media content, designing promotional materials and supporting outreach that connects veterans and their families with the mission. Being part of this work has helped me understand how storytelling can create real community impact.
Why this internship felt like a calling
I chose this internship because of the people behind it. Freedom Sings USA stands apart because of selfless individuals who give their time and hearts to veterans.
As the daughter of a Marine veteran, I understand military stories from a personal perspective. This internship has helped me look beyond uniforms and medals to hear personal stories of sacrifice, loss, resilience and hope. The compassion there is powerful. This opportunity felt like a calling — to listen more closely, lead with empathy and see people with understanding rather than assumption. It has also deepened my gratitude for spaces that encourage empathy and human connection.
What my days actually look like
As a marketing intern at Freedom Sings USA, no two days are the same. My responsibilities include creating social media content, designing marketing materials, promoting events and sharing the organization’s story. I design graphics, flyers and digital content that connect veterans and families with programs and opportunities. Through social media and event promotion, I help expand the organization’s reach. These tasks have shown me how consistency and creativity work together with professional communication.
I am especially proud of my work on the Annual 2026 Trailblazers Luncheon, where I designed programs, posters, auction bidding certificates and table cards. For weeks, they were only drafts on my computer. Seeing them used at the actual event was unforgettable.
Watching guests interact with my work gave me real joy — and a feeling I won’t forget anytime soon.
What surprised me most
Before starting this internship, I expected to feel intimidated. I was surrounded by number-one hit songwriters, business leaders and talented musicians, and I did not see myself as one of them. I thought I would feel out of place or like I had to prove I belonged. I worried I would constantly compare myself to others and feel behind.
What surprised me most was how kind and appreciative everyone is — including toward me. People choose to be here because they care deeply about the mission. Their selflessness stands out to me daily. From Don Goodman’s storytelling, to Steve Dean’s humor and warmth, to Bobbie Standefer’s business-driven leadership — each co-founder shares the same passion for veterans and treats every person with respect and kindness.
This experience has taught me that impact comes from love and passion, but also strength without harshness. I have learned that you can be driven while still treating people with respect. That balance shapes how I see marketing and leadership, and this lesson stays with me in every interaction I have.
How the Rollins College of Business prepared me
My experience at the Rollins College of Business at UTC prepared me for this internship in ways I didn’t fully appreciate until I was in the role.
My Rollins Scholars courses with Jaclyn York took me into Chattanooga businesses through tours and hands-on experiences that showed how organizations work beyond the classroom. Similarly, Public Speaking with Vincent Phipps pushed me to present with confidence and professionalism — skills I use constantly in this role.
I owe much of my growth to the Rollins College of Business, Jaclyn York, and Professor Phipps. I am especially thankful for the support and encouragement from the faculty and staff who genuinely care about their students.
My advice to future interns
This internship reshaped how I understand marketing. It is about reaching the right people and building a community. Good marketing is connection and trust — not just visibility or numbers.
Marketing is more than promotion. It is about helping important stories reach the right people.
For students considering nonprofit internships, my advice is simple: do not be afraid of the unfamiliar. You will meet incredible people, learn more than expected and grow in ways you cannot yet see. I know I have.
I have learned to lead with patience, understanding and kindness. You never know what battle someone is carrying — even small moments like a simple smile or a few encouraging words can make a huge difference in someone’s life. I’ve seen it.
This internship has shown me the power of storytelling, and I am so grateful for the opportunity to grow professionally and personally through Freedom Sings USA. It has strengthened my goals and my appreciation for marketing and community engagement while giving me confidence in the direction I am heading after graduation.
Go Mocs!
Let’s see where business will take you.
Marketing is more than promotion — it’s connection, storytelling and community. At the Gary W. Rollins College of Business, you’ll build those skills through real-world experience, faculty who invest in your growth and a program that prepares you to lead with both strategy and purpose. Apply today to begin your marketing journey.
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