Contributed by: Devrielle Stokes
A year ago, I found myself at a crossroads, unsure of how to connect my technical skills and academic background with my deeper passion for making a meaningful impact in my community. I knew I wanted to do work that mattered, but I wasn’t sure where to start or how to align what I was learning with who I wanted to become. My internship with IT4Causes became the bridge that brought all of those pieces together.
From the very beginning, IT4Causes provided a space where I could learn, contribute, and grow with purpose. I was surrounded by people who not only believed in the mission of using technology for good but also believed in me. Through this experience, I was given opportunities to connect with inspiring professionals, collaborate with nonprofits, and develop skills that extended far beyond the classroom.
One of the most impactful moments during my internship came when I was invited to attend a technology conference through IT4Causes. It was there that I met the very person who helped open the door to my new role at Markel as a Business Systems Analyst. That single opportunity, made possible by IT4Causes, completely shifted the trajectory of my professional journey. The connections I made, the confidence I gained, and the sense of belonging I felt all stemmed from that initial exposure.
I also had the chance to attend the Code and Cloud Conference, where I met incredible individuals who later invited me to join the conference’s planning committee. Being able to contribute to an event that brings together technology, innovation, and community impact is both humbling and empowering.
Throughout my internship, Tom and Andy consistently poured into me with encouragement, wisdom, and trust. They nurtured my skillsets, challenged me to think critically, and gave me opportunities to lead projects that helped me see what I’m truly capable of. Their mentorship reminded me that growth happens when you’re supported, but also when you’re trusted to step up.
Looking back, this internship did more than strengthen my technical and professional skills; it helped me find my place. It helped me see that I can combine my passion for helping others with my knowledge of technology to create lasting, meaningful change. Every connection, every challenge, and every project contributed to that realization.
I’ve learned that you truly get back what you put in, and IT4Causes is a perfect example of that truth. I gave my best, and in return, I received guidance, opportunity, and a sense of direction that I’ll carry with me throughout my career. I am deeply grateful to IT4Causes for believing in me and for showing me what it means to use technology with purpose.