Interning at Interior Graphics & Printing

Suzie Avant is graduating in May 2014 with a degree in psychology and a minor in business. She plans to continue her education in the MBA program with the intention to pursue a career in marketing.

Suzie Avant working at Interior Graphics & Printing. Photo by Todd Paris, Paris Photographics.
Suzie Avant working at Interior Graphics & Printing. Photo by Todd Paris, Paris Photographics.

Choosing Interior Graphics & Printing


Interior Graphics & Printing (IGP) appealed to me for an internship because I was familiar with the business and I knew I wanted to do a marketing internship. I have an artistic side that I’ve also enjoyed using during my time at IGP. I have also benefited from learning from business owner Michelle Maynor about running a small business and managing employees. Michelle is a great business person and leader.



Learning First-Hand


I learned so much in my time with IGP. I learned a lot from just watching Michelle work and seeing how much she cares about her business and her employees. Michelle has taught me about the significance of the culture at your workplace. We having meetings to talk about how things are going and she is always open to having her employees come talk to her. She has shown me the importance of being invested in your employees, how they are doing and if they are comfortable in their work place.

I’ve also learned the importance of community service and involvement. IGP is very active in many different businesses in Fairbanks and throughout the state including: the Breast Cancer Detection Center, Downtown Rotary, Interior Alaska Green Star, Tubby’s BBQ, Design Alaska and more. When you give back to your community, your community gives back to you. And I’ve seen that from working at IGP.

Advice for Students


The team at Interior Graphics & Printing, including Michelle Maynor (left) and Suzie Avant (third from left). Photo by Todd Paris, Paris Photographics.
The team at Interior Graphics & Printing, including Michelle Maynor (left) and Suzie Avant (third from left). Photo by Todd Paris, Paris Photographics.


My advice to other students interested in an internship would be to do your research about the business you'd be going into and be sure it’s a good fit. There are a lot of good businesses out there that may not necessarily be a good fit for you as an individual. Make sure you know what you want, what you are looking for, and that you are going into a business that will help you learn and grow as an business professional.

Best Thing About Interning at Interior Graphics & Printing


The best thing about my internship was that it was mutually beneficial for both me and IGP. At the completion of my internship I was offered a full time job. I truly enjoy my job and am happy while I’m at work. I have learned more than I ever would have imagined in my time with IGP and am very appreciative for the opportunity I have been given.