Meet the University of the Peloponnese Department of Performing and Digital Arts Intern

Guest post by Demi Proutsou

During my fourth academic year in the Department of Performing and Digital Arts in Nafplio, I made the decision to pursue an internship. With the assistance of our professor, Mr. Alexandros Efklidis, I was connected with an internship opportunity at CHS Greece in Nafplio, marking my first visit to the organization.

Upon arrival at CHS Greece, I received a warm welcome, and my request to intern with them was graciously accepted. Eager to learn and contribute, I embraced this new experience lying ahead of me.

With a focus on digital arts in my academic studies, I had already acquired the necessary skills for photo and video editing. As a self-taught artist who has been sharing my artwork online for over a decade, I also have a solid understanding of how to leverage social media effectively. This unique background equipped me well for my internship at CHS Greece. Working closely with Ms. Christina Lafi, the Projects and Content Development Manager, I collaborated on creating engaging content for the organization's digital platforms. Together, we brainstormed and implemented ideas to enhance the Center's online presence and promote its identity across social media platforms. This active involvement in shaping the organization's digital footprint was a valuable learning experience for me.

During my internship journey, I had the opportunity to integrate my skills and interests with the Center's content, aligning my individual aesthetic with the organization's profile by creating image and video content for their programs and special events, honing my video editing skills by producing videos for the CHS Greece Spring Break programs and incorporating new techniques to enhance social media presence and aesthetics in line with the demands of 2024. Additionally, I undertook the task of captioning video footage from the Center's events, contributing to Harvard University's commitment to accessibility. Captioning two-and-a-half-hour events allowed me to gain practical experience and sensitivity in ensuring inclusivity and creating engaging digital content that aligns with both my personal values and professional aspirations. Furthermore, participating in staff meetings provided me with the opportunity to contribute ideas for advancing the Center's commitment to accessibility. My role at CHS Greece expanded to include working with their digital archive and leveraging the Digital Library for my thesis work.

Reflecting on my internship, I can confidently say it was a transformative and rewarding experience that facilitated both professional and personal growth. I wholeheartedly recommend this opportunity to fellow students seeking inspiration and development. From the supportive team to the enriching work environment, interning at CHS Greece offers a platform for meaningful learning and contribution. I encourage all students to seize the chance to intern at the organization and embark on a journey of learning and development that will leave a lasting impact.

Demi Proutsou

Demi Proutsou is a senior undergraduate student at the University of the Peloponnese Department of Performing and Digital Arts in Nafplio. She is a self-taught artist who specializes in portrait and more generally in realistic and semi-realistic artworks in both digital and traditional forms. In addition to her artistic talents, she has a passion for graphic design and video editing. In conjunction with her studies in the Department, she’s also currently working on her thesis, titled “Video Game Character Design: From Idea to Creation in the Digital World.” You can see Demi's work on her portfolio website.

Performing and Digital Arts Department Internship in Nafplio

As of 2022, the Center begins working with the Nafplio-based Department of Performing and Digital Arts of the University of the Peloponnese. Interns work together with CHS Greece staff on CHS's digital projects to further enhance their academic and professional skills by being exposed to Harvard's and CHS's resources and overall agenda. Additionally, interns work with the DPDA supervisors and CHS Greece staff in carrying out thesis research and other course projects while preparing a complete bibliography on a subject, which is made available to fellow students and professors to further support teaching and research in the department. Learn more about the Performing and Digital Arts Department Internship in Nafplio.