College is the best time of your life. Not only do you learn plenty about your desired career path and discover some of your own personal goals, but you meet lifelong friends that will be by your side through thick and thin. Since college is a time for personal growth, you will most likely start applying for internships during the fall semester. If you're anything like me, I love to travel so I applied for numerous internships that were as far as 12 hours away from my hometown.
Luckily, I was able to move from Michigan to South Carolina for my summer internship! I took the opportunity in a heartbeat since I knew it would be a great way for me to gain experience in my field, meet new people, and live in a different part of the country for the summer. Since it's a new experience, there are a lot of things that happen when you go on a summer internship.
1. You spend your days off exploring the new city you're living in.
Whether it means running errands, going to a historical landmark, or just driving around, the last thing you want to do on your day off is to stay at home. Nothing is better than discovering new local coffee shops and stores in your area.
2. You FaceTime your best friend and parents back home every day... sometimes twice a day.
Of course having an internship is a marvelous chance to meet new people, but no one will ever replace your best friend and your family. If you're anything like my best friend and I, we talk constantly and when we talk, conversations usually involve anything under the sun. Whether it's a serious conversation or making weird faces at each other, we always make sure we talk at least once a day. Not only should you prioritize your best friend, but also your parents. I talk to my family almost every day, just to assure them that I am safe and remind them of how thankful I am for them!
3. Going to work every day is a new adventure and a highlight of your day.
Personally, I love my summer internship and look forward to going into work every day. It's exciting to get valuable experience in your major field, and you can learn so much by being on your own in a fresh environment. It's important that making good and lasting impressions at work is one of your priorities, along with expanding your knowledge at your workplace. You never know, your internship could possibly lead to a full-time job after college.
4. You make it a personal mission to find unique souvenirs for your family and friends.
Since your favorite people can't experience your summer internship with you, the best thing you can do is bring home pieces of your summer life back to your loved ones. It will remind them that they are important, loved, and that you kept them in mind during your busy summer working.
5. You start to feel like an adult.
Not only do you have a regular work schedule, but you should start making your own meals (not microwave), going to bed early, and doing things in your free time to become more knowledgeable. Getting a good night's rest before a busy work day will make you feel extremely productive and ready for your day.
6. You develop hobbies and discover new interests in your free time.
One of my favorite things about having an internship is that you have a lot of time to start exploring other interests you may have, such as books, documentaries, or hobbies. It's important to find hobbies you have a passion for and hold onto them for life. These hobbies will be your way to unwind after a long day of work and hopefully will transfer over during the school year and after graduation.
