Senior Viktoria Savvidou, a senior business major from Cyprus and member of the Holy Cross College women’s tennis team, spent her summer gaining hands-on experience as a marketing research intern at Thor Industries, which is headquartered in Elkhart and one of the nation’s leaders in RV manufacturing.
The tennis star and defending most improved player in the ITA East Region, shares insights from her internship and how Holy Cross prepared her to thrive in the corporate world.
Q: Why did you choose this internship?
Viktoria: I was drawn to Thor because of its reputation as a leader in the RV industry and its focus on innovation and customer experience. The internship aligned perfectly with my interest in marketing and my career goals.
Q: What was a typical day like?
Viktoria: My days combined creative and analytical tasks—conducting social media audits, researching industry trends, and collaborating with various teams. The team was friendly and approachable, which made the fast-paced environment exciting rather than overwhelming.
Q: What was the most challenging part, and how did you overcome it?
Viktoria: Adjusting to a corporate environment was the biggest challenge. I learned to communicate clearly with the team and confirm expectations before starting each task, which helped me work more effectively.
Q: What was the most rewarding or memorable moment?
Viktoria: Volunteering with Thor at Hannah & Friends was unforgettable. Engaging with the community gave me a new perspective on the company’s values and impact.
Q: How has this experience prepared you for your future career?
Viktoria: It taught me to balance deadlines and collaborate across departments. I sharpened my communication skills and gained insight into how a marketing department operates in a large corporation—knowledge I’ll carry into my business career.
Q: What advice would you give another Holy Cross student starting their first internship?
Viktoria: Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Curiosity helps you learn, engage with people, and build relationships that could be valuable in the future.
Q: How did Holy Cross help put you in this position personally and professionally?
Viktoria: Holy Cross provided a strong foundation in both personal and professional skills. My classes prepared me for the marketing concepts I encountered, and the college’s emphasis on collaboration and communication gave me the confidence to work effectively in a corporate setting.