My internship this past summer was one of the best experiences I have ever had. In fact, I enjoyed it so much I plan on going back. I learned so much in just three months of interning, so here is my advice to anyone looking for an internship:
The process of applying and waiting for acceptance can be nerve-racking, but it is all a learning process. Actually, while waiting for my acceptance to this particular program, I applied and interviewed for another internship. It worked out that I didn’t get it since I was already accepted to the program—sometimes things just work out like that.
You will meet and work with people that you don’t really like. It’s a fact. However, sometimes in the work world you just have to smile and deal with it (fake it till you make it). Unfortunately, I did deal with a fellow intern that was so mean to me and a few of the other interns that I reported him. I’m the type of person that likes to handle issues myself, but it just got so out of hand with threats and name calling that I had no choice but to tell the head of our program and I’m glad that I did. If someone treats you unprofessionally they need to be punished for it, especially if it's a fellow student. I look at it as a learning experience, since in the workplace you never know who you'll be in contact with.
You will meet and work with people that are simply amazing. My supervisor is amazing. The people within my department are amazing. Two of the interns that I worked with are amazing. I was so nervous going into the internship especially because I knew I would be working with other college students, but once I opened myself up, I made two best friends--one of whom is now my boyfriend (funny how things work out). I really enjoyed working with all of the interns, however.
It’s a man's world... and you can choose to let the men rule the workforce or you can become the ultimate businesswoman and compete with them. Whether I want to insert myself in that kind of atmosphere, I'm still deciding. There are still unfair disadvantages that women face, but how you react is a test of character and will affect how you handle situations in the future.
Working in an office is not for everyone. Especially not for me. I found myself getting away from my desk as often as I could, even if it was just to take a walk. I'm definitely a hands-on person and will not be chained to a desk, if I can help it.
There’s still a lot to learn when it comes to the real work world, which is both exciting and terrifying. I was fortunate enough to work at the same place as my dad, so everyone was exceptionally friendly and already knew a lot about me. I wish I could take my dad with me wherever I work, but I know how unrealistic that is. Someday it will be my responsibility to go out and get my job on my own, and that will feel extremely rewarding. I know more about what I want out of my future from the experience I had at my internship this past summer.
