Hello Blog Readers,
My name is Ava Faranello, and I am a senior at Villanova studying Communications (PR and Advertising). As I conclude my Summer 2026 Marketing Internship at Matrix Applications, I would like to share how this firm has become a major part of my career ahead.
What was my biggest takeaway?
After my time here at Matrix Applications, I’ve learned nothing matters more than the connections you make with people. Beyond the work itself, the team bonding moments — whether it was grabbing lunch together or just checking in on each other during a busy week — reminded me that culture is what makes people want to show up and do their best work. Every conversation I had, whether with a mentor, a colleague, or a client, taught me that the relationships you build today are ones that can open new doors in the future. It is clear that Matrix truly values its people just as much as its performance, and that is what makes this team so special.
What did you enjoy most about your internship?
During my time here at Matrix Applications, I was so lucky to be welcomed into such an amazing work environment. Coming into an office on the first day can be intimidating, but each and every individual made me feel included and supported throughout my entire experience this summer. The Marketing/Sales team, whom I worked with closely, always ensured I felt comfortable to ask questions, encouraged me to try new things, and included me in as many experiences possible, whether that be professional or community focused.
Through Matrix, I felt everyone wanted to hear what I had to say, and that made all the difference. Whether I was joining in on client calls, brainstorming new campaign ideas, or helping put together presentations, I never once felt like my input wasn’t valued. I was treated like a key part of the team, and that trust pushed me to work harder and think more creatively than I ever expected.
Who did you work with? Tell us about your mentorship experience.
This summer, I have had the privilege to work with the Marketing team at Matrix Applications, but more specifically, alongside Colleen Judge on a daily basis.
When I first met Colleen about a year before I started interning, she was kind, generous, and most of all, believed in my skills and potential. Her mentorship not only gave me confidence in myself, but in trying things out of my comfort zone, whether on a professional or personal level.
As a mentor, Colleen had also made a point of supporting my career path as a whole, offering advice on everything from networking to what to look for in a first full-time role. That kind of investment in my growth is what made this internship feel like the true start of my career.
To the entire team at Matrix Applications: thank you for an amazing summer. I'm walking away with more skills, new connections, and confidence I couldn't have gained anywhere else.
Thank you for reading,
Ava Faranello