For Davenport University student Elizabet Lopez-Lopez, an internship at the Literacy Center of West Michigan has become more than a requirement; it’s the foundation of a promising career in human resources (HR).

Currently serving as a human resources intern, Lopez-Lopez has spent the past several weeks immersed in real-world HR responsibilities that extend far beyond the classroom. From recruiting and interviewing candidates to onboarding new hires and contributing to organizational strategy, her experience reflects the kind of applied learning Davenport strives to provide.

“During my first few weeks, I worked closely with leadership to update a job description and help recruit candidates,” Lopez-Lopez said. “I was able to schedule interviews, develop questions and even sit in on the hiring process. That gave me a deeper understanding of how important it is to find the right fit for both the organization and the employee.”

Her role quickly expanded. By week four, Lopez-Lopez was collaborating with the finance director to draft offer letters and learning the nuances of employee benefits and nonprofit HR policies. She also contributed to onboarding processes, completed background checks and supported payroll operations—experiences that have given her a well-rounded view of HR functions.

“What I really like is seeing how HR works in a nonprofit setting,” she said. “It’s different from a large corporation. There are fewer staff, so people wear multiple hats, and everything is focused on the mission. I’m learning something new every day.”

Lopez-Lopez has also taken advantage of professional development opportunities, including attending regional HR events and joining organizations like the Society for Human Resource Management. At a recent conference on workforce trends and artificial intelligence, she gained insight into how the HR field is evolving.

“These experiences are helping me understand how HR professionals need to adapt to changes in technology and the workforce,” she said. “It’s exciting to think about being part of that future.”

Her supervisor, Diedre Deering, says Lopez-Lopez has made a strong impression.

“Elizabet came to the Literacy Center well prepared to step into the HR internship role,” Deering said. “She is quick to follow through on assigned projects, knows the right questions to ask when needed and shows genuine curiosity about the organization and her role within it.”

Deering also highlighted Lopez-Lopez’s enthusiasm and growth mindset.

“Elizabet enjoys a challenge and brings an eagerness to learn new things every time she walks through the door. We are so fortunate to have crossed paths with her and are excited to see her grow and make the position her own.”

Faculty member Rob Spohr, who connected Lopez-Lopez with the opportunity, sees the internship as a model for student success.

“This is a great example of how internships can benefit both the student and the organization,” Spohr said. “Elizabet is gaining meaningful, hands-on experience while making a real contribution to the Literacy Center.”

Lopez-Lopez will graduate in August with a bachelor’s degree in Human Resource Management and begin her permanent position with the Literacy Center of West Michigan in September.

As her internship progresses toward a full-time opportunity, Lopez-Lopez is already envisioning her future in HR, one grounded in purpose, adaptability and continuous learning.

“This experience has confirmed that I chose the right career path,” she said. “I’m excited to keep growing and making an impact.”