So, right now I’m looking for internships. I’ve applied to over 50 different companies all over the nation, I’ve talked to family members, friends, and whoever else has connections to see what strings can be pulled.

I got a call from one of the places I applied within an hour of applying. I was so excited I could barely talk, I set up an interview, planned out my outfit, and went. I was told I was to be a Brand Ambassador. I was going to work for a company and be their communication between the specific brand and the company itself. It was full time and paid, it was more than I could ask for.

I went for the initial interview and was so excited. The office was bright and colorful and the people were so nice. I was hoping and praying that I landed the job to work there. The first interview was just a personality test pretty much. He asked what I liked to do with my free time and what kind of music I listened to, it was easy and I felt comfortable. I was told I would get a call later on that day of whether I would be invited back the next day for a second interview.

I went home gushing about my day and then waited for the call. I got the call and was told I was invited back. I went back the next morning and was giddy to be there. I was brought back into an office and that was where my excitement started to die down.

At the time I had no idea these were red flags. I went home to tell my parents about how awesome of a job this could be, but they pointed out to me that I would basically be a door to door salesman. That’s when I started to rethink everything I heard and saw.

There was so space for interns to work. When a girl asked where the other interns work and he said, “Don’t worry about it, it’s a Saturday.” There was no mention of base pay, I would have been paid on commission. I was told that I would have an orientation period that I would have to learn how to talk to someone and I would need to be quizzed on AT&T facts. The things that I brushed off at first seemed to make me think differently about my exciting job.

I did end up getting the internship. When I received the call, I had one question that I needed answered before I made my decision. I asked him, “What would happen if I didn’t bring in any clients for a week? Would I still get paid?” He answered, “Well, I’ve never had that happen. Even the worst communicators bring in a few.” I then said, “But, what if I didn’t bring in any clients? Would I get paid?” He yet again said, “Well, that would never happen.”

I didn’t take the internship. I was annoyed that I had spent my time and energy being excited about something that in the end wasn’t worth it. I didn’t take the job because I don’t want to be a door to door salesman. I understand that internships are entry level and I don’t have the experience or pull to get a full time full benefits job right away, but I do still want an internship that is going to benefit me.

It was extremely hard to tell them that I wasn’t accepting the offer, but I’m glad I did. I have worked so hard to be become the Communications Major Graphic Design Minor that I am.

So, for those out there in my shoes who are trying to find an internship, remember that you don’t have to sell out. It’s okay to be picky because this is your life and your career. Do what makes you happy and don’t be afraid of what others think.