I began my career as an unpaid intern at a startup web design company, I had no idea where the journey would take me. But with hard work, dedication, and the willingness to learn on the job, I became a director. That opportunity was invaluable, and I've never forgotten it. It fueled my belief in the importance of internships as a way to prove yourself, gain practical experience, and grow within an organization.
Ever since that moment, providing others the same opportunity became my goal. At every organization that I've been a part of, I've worked to establish a program to give others the same chance to learn and thrive. However, I learned that not only it's a chance for a student to shine, but the organization gains a fresh outlook. This additional perspective is also a catalyst for innovation and retrospective into your team operations. The experience also allows team members to mentor other team members and rediscover the core values of an organization.
If you are planning for an internship:
- Attend a college job fair
- Find a mentor online
- Reach out to others who had internships
- Review local companies' websites for job postings
- Join a professional group to network
- Start looking early (the fall of the summer before the internship)
- Talk to your college counselor
Internships matter. They are an amazing opportunity to shape a career path and inspire a lifetime of learning. The value of internships goes beyond just work experience—it opens doors for both the individual and the organization. I am thankful for my internship opportunity and I'm excited to support others on their journey.
