Stories
Internships are often hailed as essential stepping stones for students, offering them real-world experience and a chance to make lasting connections in their chosen fields. For Candace (Cotton) Garry '78, also known as Candy, internships were more than just career-building opportunities – they were life-changing experiences that helped shape her passion for government, media and journalism.
During her time at the University of South Dakota, Candy seized the opportunity to complete multiple internships, including two at the South Dakota State Capitol and one with the South Dakota Division of Tourism and Economic Development. These experiences allowed her to put theory into practice and build valuable skills in writing, photography and government relations.
"Internships do something unique for students," said Candy. "You're not just reading about how the legislature works; you're experiencing it firsthand. That kind of real-world experience makes everything you learn in class feel more meaningful and relatable."
While Candy was able to pursue these internships, her husband, Dan Garry '72, had a different experience. Because he worked to support himself through college, Dan couldn't take part in internships. However, Dan came to deeply appreciate the value of internships later in his career.
"I never had the chance to intern, but I saw how invaluable they were when I was Governor Richard Kneip's chief of staff," said Dan. "We always had college or high school interns during the legislative session. They brought energy, fresh ideas and a strong work ethic, which made them an essential part of the team."
For Candy, those early internships sparked a lifelong passion for her career. "My internships ignited my interest in government and media. I gained confidence, learned from professionals, and developed a deep respect for the inner workings of government institutions. These experiences gave me a strong foundation that has enriched my life," said Candy.
"Internships are a win/win situation," Dan added. "Students get a taste of the real world and are better prepared for their careers, while organizations benefit from the creativity and energy that interns bring."
For both Dan and Candy, internships were key to bridging the gap between academic learning and career readiness, something that they believe is vital for all students.
Bridging the Gap: Ensuring Access to Internships for All Students
Whether they be academic or experiential internships, these experiences help students stand out in the job search; according to the National Association of Colleges and Employers, roughly 95% of all hiring managers factor in experience level when making their decisions. Unfortunately, financial limitations often prevent students from accessing these opportunities.
Candy remembers how challenging it was to balance internships with the need to work. "I had to take time off from my job and put in double shifts just to afford the chance to intern. It was a huge sacrifice," she said. "I don't want current students to have to face that same challenge."
This understanding of the financial burden associated with internships motivated the Garrys to act. They established the Daniel and Candace (Cotton) Garry Government and Public Service Internship Endowment and the Candace (Cotton) and Daniel Garry Media and Journalism Internship Endowment – two funds aimed at providing financial support to USD students pursuing internships in government, public service, media and journalism.
"I believe internships give students real-life job experience that cannot be taught in the classroom," Candy explained. "For many, these experiences provide clarity and insight into their career paths, while also building the confidence to navigate the job market."
By creating these endowments, the Garrys hope to remove financial barriers that might prevent deserving students from gaining this critical experience.
Empowering the Next Generation
The Garrys' commitment to internships is validated by the success stories of current USD students who are benefiting from similar opportunities. Jordan Christensen, a former intern on the Appropriations Committee under Sen. Jean Hunhoff and current senior at USD, shared how her internship opened her eyes to the legislative process. "You can learn a lot in class, but nothing compares to being part of the legislative session firsthand," said Christensen. "It's been a transformative experience, and I'm grateful for the resources USD provides to help students pursue internships in Pierre."
Actively pursuing a double major in political science and criminal justice, the impact of her time in Pierre is not lost on her. She emphasized the significance of learning from legislators. "I would have never gotten to know the insight and knowledge they share if I wasn't here in Pierre actively being part of this experience," said Christensen.
From making connections with mentors to providing firsthand experiences, internships have the power to shape careers and transform lives. The Garrys' endowments are just one example of how USD is fostering an environment where students can thrive, both in the classroom and the professional world.
Through their endowments, Dan and Candy Garry aim to make internships more accessible to all students, ensuring that financial limitations do not prevent anyone from pursuing these life-changing opportunities. Their passion for internships reflects their belief in the power of real-world experience to enrich education and open doors to a brighter future for the next generation of Coyotes.
"Admittedly I'm biased, but the hustle my wife, Candy, showed in getting both unpaid and paid internships during her college years is a testament to the value of state and government internships," said Dan.
"It's true," said Candy. "I feel fortunate and extremely grateful to USD for helping make these experiences possible."