I have learned SO much here in such a short time, but what I have learned as definitely helped prove to me that I've chosen the right career path. It helps that I work with such awesome people too. Everyone up here at Appleton's has welcomed me and made me feel a part of the team which is something that a lot of interns don't get the chance to experience. I decided the best way to let you all know the key things I'm learning is to do a "top 5" list.
- Planning is everything. To my APSU PR friends, I know we hear this all the time and we think we grasp the concept but it really is such a huge help. The more you can plan ahead the better. The thing I've found that helps me the most up here is to type up any notes you take from the beginning, that allows you to make a more permanent check list when the event comes up. I'm a pretty visual person so when I can look at a list and check things off I feel a lot more accomplished.
- Research! Of course this is another thing we hear in class all the time but I've learned how important it really is. First, make sure you research the organization or company you are working for. You don't want to be presented with a question and have no possible answer. Not only does it help to research the organization, take it a step further and research things related to it. You never know what you can learn that will help you.
- Don't be afraid to ask questions. Ever heard that phrase "the only dumb question is the one not asked?" well, it's pretty much true. If you are unsure of something, just ask. It is better to take the initiative to try to find something out than it is to just slide it off or give a wrong answer. The people you are working for want you to represent their brand just the way they do and aren't going to mind if you need to ask a question to do that properly.
- Take notes! There is so much to learn that the best way to retain information and remember what all you are doing is to just write it down. I've kept a notebook the entire time and make a page for each day I'm here that way I don't forget anything. You might learn something the first month and not have to get around to it until weeks later but you are expected to remember it. This is just a way to make your own life easier!
- Always go a step further. If you are interning for part of your schooling like I am, don't just look at it as "okay I need to just log my required hours and be done with it". Be an active participant, if you can make the time to volunteer to help with more events or whatever is needed not only are you helping our your organization, you are helping out yourself. The more you can learn, the better. I know a lot of us had the mindset that we have learned all we need to in class but once you get in this position you quickly learn that is not true. You are preparing yourself for a professional career in this field and this is the best way to do that. If you get the chance to do more than one internship, DO IT! As a senior graduating in May I really wish this is something I would have had more time and more experience with.
xoxo :)
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