Working Together Toward Success

As presentation day drew closer, interns dedicated the day to refining both their consulting projects and their professional skills. Through career-focused workshops, meetings with their Nigerian business partners, collaborative work sessions, mentor guidance, and time spent together outside the classroom, interns continued building the confidence and experience needed to deliver their final recommendations.

The day began with Justin Smith's presentation on Effective Elevator Pitch, where interns learned how to confidently introduce themselves in professional settings. Justin shared strategies for making strong first impressions, communicating experiences clearly, and presenting themselves with confidence and authenticity during networking opportunities and interviews.

Following the session, interns reconnected with their Nigerian business partners during another round of Business Partner Calls. Teams shared project updates, asked final questions, and gathered valuable feedback before putting the finishing touches on their recommendations. Using their business partners' suggestions, interns refined their research, strengthened their proposals, and prepared their presentations for the following day.

The morning continued with the Industry Standup, featuring Andrii Marchak, Anthony Annan, and Scott Rezendes, who reflected on their professional journeys and shared lessons learned throughout their careers. They encouraged interns to embrace new challenges, remain adaptable, and continue seeking opportunities for growth while answering questions about leadership and career development.

To conclude the professional development sessions, Marshall Bailly introduced interns to Leadership Initiatives' International Internship Program (IIP). He explained how the year-long program allows students to continue working with international entrepreneurs and nonprofit organizations while expanding their leadership, consulting, and communication skills through global collaboration and mentorship.

Following lunch, interns spent dedicated time with their consulting teams putting the final touches on their presentations. Teams reviewed slides, practiced their delivery, organized speaking roles, and incorporated feedback received throughout the week from business partners, mentors, and program staff. The work session allowed every team to feel fully prepared before presentation day.

Later in the afternoon, interns had the opportunity to explore Washington, D.C. and Georgetown, enjoying time with fellow participants while visiting local shops, cafés, and nearby landmarks. The outing provided a chance to relax and strengthen the friendships that had grown throughout the program.

Before the day concluded, teams met one final time with their mentors, who reviewed presentation slides, listened to practice runs, and offered personalized feedback and encouragement. Their guidance helped interns make final adjustments while building confidence ahead of their presentations.

By the end of the day, interns had polished both their presentations and their professional skills. With the support of their business partners, mentors, and program staff, they were well prepared to showcase a week of hard work while celebrating the collaboration, friendships, and leadership development that made the experience so meaningful.