Reimagining Intern Engagement
Via Virtual Experience Design
Overview
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic and a shift to remote work, I designed and launched Cadence’s first global virtual intern experience, driving 3,800+ video views, 600+ likes, and 400+ comments—setting a new standard for digital engagement across 13 global sites during remote operations.
Role: Associate Program Manager II
Focus Areas: Event Marketing · Digital Experience · Program Innovation · Internal Communications · Leadership Engagement · Remote Culture · Content Strategy
Challenge
When COVID-19 halted in-person events, Cadence’s flagship Intern Showcase—a highly visible, culture-rich experience that brought together interns, staff, and executive leadership—was no longer feasible. Traditionally held as a live, science fair-style event at headquarters and satellite offices, the showcase gave interns a platform to present their summer projects and connect with employees across the company. Without an in-person alternative, there was an urgent need to preserve the core value of the experience: visibility, recognition, and connection. The challenge was to quickly reimagine the event as a scalable, engaging digital experience that could serve 300+ interns across 13 global sites—all while maintaining the high standards of a program rooted in innovation and community.
Strategy
To adapt for a remote world, I designed an integrated digital experience from the ground up, centered on accessibility, engagement, and brand continuity:
Built the first-ever global Intern Showcase portal where interns could submit video presentations and share their summer work with the broader company.
Developed a streamlined communications plan to drive participation and awareness across global departments.
Collaborated with executive leadership to host a live virtual intern mixer and panel, ensuring face time between interns and C-suite leaders.
Led cross-functional coordination with design, video, HR, and IT teams to ensure a seamless, branded digital experience.
Created scalable documentation and frameworks for use by international sites in future remote program planning.
Results
The virtual showcase achieved record-setting reach and laid the groundwork for future digital engagement models. Interns were recognized, celebrated, and seen—despite the physical distance.
3,800+ video views, 600+ likes, and 400+ comments on intern presentations.
Participation from 300+ interns across 13 global sites.
Executive roundtable and live celebration event featuring intern awards, trivia games, and leadership Q&A.
Strengthened executive-intern relationships and cross-regional visibility.
Established a new digital standard now used for intern engagement across Cadence globally.