My Summer in Wichita: A Koch Intern Experience

I’m convinced that the people who claim, “there’s nothing to do in Wichita” have never actually been.

I moved to Wichita for a summer internship with Koch Industries. While I was busy innovating and creating value during the day as a business systems analyst intern, my evenings were spent with fellow interns exploring the city. During my time here, I’ve found numerous hidden gems that you can find only in Wichita.

First, my friends and I discovered the Wichita Sports Forum. I grew up playing sports, so I’ve seen a variety of practice fields and gyms, but nothing like this. This place is athlete central. There are large practice areas for almost every sport you can think of. Plus, there were sand volleyball courts, giant trampolines and an obstacle course - if being the next “American Ninja Warrior” is more your thing.

We also got the chance to hang out with interns from other local companies at Riverfest, the largest and longest continuously running festival in the state. Though the rainy weekend put a damper on our paddle boat competition on the Arkansas River, we enjoyed good food, live music, helicopter rides and a scavenger hunt downtown.

Celebrating my 21st birthday here also exposed me to more unique aspects of Wichita. I was treated with arguably the best donuts in the city, Hurts Donut, where they have crazy and fun toppings like Fruity Pebbles, Oreos, M&M’s and cotton candy – my inner five-year-old loved every bit! I ended my celebration with some friends showing off my non-existent cornhole skills at Chicken N Pickle.

Even something as simple as going to the movies turned into a unique experience. The Warren Theatre has a comfy vintage vibe with classic velvet curtains and light jazz music playing before the show. There’s even a reserved 21-and-over area with heated recliners!

Next on my Wichita bucket list? Visiting the Starlite Drive-In, seeing a live Music Theatre Wichita show, trying out the new Splash Aqua Park and so much more. The best part is, almost everything is within ten minutes of each other and it only takes about 25 minutes to get from the far east side of town to the west. One thing’s for sure, Wichita’s keeping me busy all summer long, and I love it.

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