Sujata Article

What I Learned from a Internship at LocAlley (That No Classroom Teaches You) (May 2026)

By: Sujata Thakur

When I joined LocAlley as an Executive Assistant Intern in May 2023, I thought I knew what to expect. Like many students starting their first startup internship in Toronto, I imagined structured tasks and a steady learning curve.

Instead, I stepped into a fast-paced environment where I was contributing to digital marketing, analytics, and business operations from day one. What surprised me most was the level of ownership, I wasn’t just learning, I was actively making an impact.

At LocAlley, I worked on projects involving marketing campaigns, website optimization, and content strategy. One key skill I developed was data-driven decision-making, learning how to analyze performance and refine strategies based on real insights. A project I’m especially proud of involved improving website content using SEO and marketing analytics, helping increase user engagement and overall performance. Through this experience, I learned that growth comes from stepping outside your comfort zone and being willing to try new things.

A highlight of my internship was supporting the Startup Investor Drinks event this past February, attended by LocAlley. I helped with event coordination, logistics, and engaging with attendees, ensuring a smooth and professional experience. Being part of a startup networking event in Toronto strengthened my communication, organization, and adaptability skills. I learned how to think on my feet, manage unexpected challenges, and contribute in a high-energy environment, showing me that the best opportunities come from taking initiative and staying open to new experiences.

My experience at LocAlley taught me that real growth comes from trying new things and embracing challenges. Through hands-on work in digital marketing, analytics, and startup operations, I’ve become more confident, adaptable, and proactive. If you want to read more about student experiences like mine, check out the Experience Ventures Interview here.