Internship with Impact: How Students Help Strengthen Sundsvall’s Appeal

The tasks have been both varied and challenging. Among other things, the students worked on strategies and marketing plans related to the SAM project (Strengthened Attractiveness and Reception Capacity) or (Stärkt attraktionskraft och Mottagningskapacitet in Swedish) aimed at enhancing competence in the High Coast and Sundsvall region. They also worked with the Destination Sundsvall platform and even participated in a film shoot.

Another task included mapping the history of the Gärdehov Arena.“It was real detective work and super exciting. By searching through old historical sources at the library, the story of the place came to life — a piece of work that will be used in the storytelling of the site and help enhance its attractiveness going forward,” says Lukas.

“Being able to participate in Innovation workshops organized by the SAM project was a real hit,” says Anas, explaining that the workshops resulted in a prototype for a booth that will be used in the region’s continued efforts to attract and welcome new students and other newcomers to the city.

Lukas and Anas had different tasks during their internship but found it beneficial to be two people at the same site, as they could exchange ideas and support each other throughout the period.

Johanna Åkerlund works as a communications strategist at the municipality and was the students’ internship supervisor.

“We host a group of interns every year, and it's always equally rewarding. We get help developing ideas and projects we might not have time for in our daily operations, while the interns bring fresh insights and perspectives to our work. It’s always valuable to have an outside view — it strengthens both our work and the department as a whole.

“Moreover, it feels important to support students like Lukas and Anas in their education. Hopefully, this is a way for us as hosts to contribute to strengthening the region's future competence.”