We’re delighted to introduce our 2022 summer intern, Carolyn Parmer!

Carolyn will be involved with operations, accounting, marketing, studio sessions as well as our archives. We asked her a few questions about her education and background. Here’s what she had to say.

Where do you attend school and what do you study?

I’m a rising junior at UT Austin, and I have a major in journalism and minors in history and global communication.

How are you hoping to use your degree once you graduate?

I would love to report for a print publication while pursuing concert photography on the side. Eventually, I hope to host my own podcast.

What led you to an internship with Gittings?

When I interviewed with Greg, he was very welcoming and showed his passion for the company. I also wanted an opportunity to learn more about portrait photography.

What do you hope to achieve or get out of this internship?

I hope to strengthen my portrait photography skills, learn about the behind-the-scenes aspects of running a photography business, and learn how to better connect with clients so they’re comfortable and excited when taking their pictures.

Coffee is kind of a big deal around here, how do you like your coffee?

I love a flat white with foamy milk where I can really taste the coffee!

What extracurricular, social clubs or volunteer activities are you involved in, and what have you gained from them?

I’m a photo editor for a music magazine called Afterglow, the co-director of new member experience for my sorority and a writing coach at the Moody College of Communication. I wrote for the Life&Arts section of The Daily Texan for two semesters, and I hope to return as a writer or a member of the podcast team!

Serving as a leader has helped me refine my delegation and organization skills. Through Afterglow, I’ve gotten to photograph some amazing artists, like Louis Tomlinson! Working for The Daily Texan helped me realize my passion for hearing and sharing people’s stories, something I hope to continue in my future jobs.

How do you like to spend your days when you have no plans?

I like to start my day with a workout and then enjoy a nice breakfast and coffee afterwards, maybe with a friend. TikTok consumes more of my time than I’d like to admit, but I also love to read! I also love to listen to podcasts and music!

Share something that’s particularly unique about your life or college experience thus far.

Last semester, I participated in UT’S Normandy Scholars Program where I took five classes about World War II with 17 other students. I got to write a research paper about Americans objecting to women serving in the war and learned about the wartime experiences in the US, Russia, France, Germany and Britain.

In May and June, I traveled throughout France and Germany with the professors and other students. That was my first time going to Europe, and I loved it so much that I’m already looking for internships there for next year!