Where Mission Meets Media
Taline's Internship Experience
Taline Qutub
My name is Taline, and I am a Strategic Communication major at The Ohio State University, working toward my bachelor’s degree. I am passionate about using media to connect with people, inspire change, and make a meaningful impact. Storytelling and community engagement are central to my work, and I am driven by the power of authentic communication to move both ideas and people forward.
I began my internship with Arab Student Aid International (ASAI) in May 2024. From the start, I was welcomed by a supportive team that introduced me to the nonprofit world and encouraged me to explore communication beyond traditional roles. This experience confirmed that I thrive in mission-driven environments, and I immediately knew ASAI was the right fit.
At ASAI, I have focused on developing my skills in public relations and social media—tools I plan to carry into my future career. One of the most rewarding aspects of my internship has been working directly with students in the LIFT crowdfunding program. I helped them craft their stories to raise funds for their education and built strong relationships along the way. I also led virtual crowdfunding workshops through Microsoft Teams, creating presentations to guide students in strengthening their narratives.
This work has also been personally meaningful. As a Palestinian American, collaborating with Arabic-speaking students allowed me to reconnect with my culture and improve my language skills in a supportive environment.
Being part of the nonprofit space has been one of the most valuable experiences of my academic journey. It prepared me for my Communication Campaigns course, where I partnered with a nonprofit client. I applied what I learned at ASAI to help the organization grow its reach, increase engagement, and strengthen its community connections. This experience went beyond a class project—it was a real opportunity to make an impact.
I believe strategic communication is a powerful force for good. I am passionate about helping students overcome financial barriers and using storytelling to amplify voices, build bridges, and spark lasting change. My goal is to continue working in spaces where communication drives action and stories create meaningful difference.