I’m now two weeks in to my so-far incredible full-time
internship. I felt extremely lucky to have something lined up right out of
school, and I’m working hard to learn and absorb as much as I can. That’s why
I’ve decided to do a kind of blog post “checkpoint”. Reflect on the things I
think I’m doing well and what I can do to step up my game. I love the work I’ve
been given so far, I admire the people I work with, and I want to be a
permanent part of this community. No better way to do that than to work hard
and take stock of how I can prove myself.
What I’m doing well:
1. Taking
time to observe the agency life: Good work goes a long way, but it’s not the
only thing that gets you a job. You have to be a good fit for the environment
you’re working in. In taking time to observe the people I work with, I noticed
that they walk around, chat, and have
fun. They love what they do and it
shows. They take their work seriously, but they know that good works comes from
happy people.
2. Getting
stuff done: You work efficiently, you get things done. And that makes other
people happy. It also makes you dependable.
3. Volunteering:
I’ve been given this advice, and I’d give it to anyone who asked. Do not wait
for someone to give you work. Ask people if they have anything you can work on.
Be self-motivated.
What I can do better:
1. Socialize:
Something I always struggle with, especially when I’m surrounded by new people.
It’s in my nature to kind of shy away from conversing with people at length.
It’s the deadly combination of being both very introverted and socially
awkward. But I really like everyone I work with. They’re funny, they’re nice,
and they’re accepting. Nothing to be afraid of there. I just need to be
fearless and put myself out on the front-line.
2. Slow
down: Efficiency is important, but I’ve noticed that I sometimes treat writing
assignments like I treated school assignments. Get it done, do it well, and give
it back. But when I give myself more time, I have the chance to explore more
paths, and I end up with more (and better) options.
3. Offer
help to the account team: When I don’t have a lot of writing assignments, I can
always ask account people if they need my help. I think it’s important to prove
yourself to everyone you work with, not just necessarily the people you answer
to.
I’m so happy to have a job I love so much right of school. I’m
laughing every day, writing every day, and feeling fulfilled and excited about
what my future holds. What more could I ask for?
Other than a kitten for my new apartment . . .
