For a long time, I was under the false understanding that an internship only seemed impressive if I was working for an extremely well-known company. Like working for a larger, established organization would be the way to be taken seriously in the entertainment industry. I’m not sure where this idea spurred from. Maybe it was my high school career counselor saying nobody can make it in the industry, perhaps it was the waves of voices that told me majoring in English was an employment death wish or it very well could have been my self-doubt.
All are wrong.
I wish I could have told my first-year self how vital internships are to a college experience. Because of this negativity, I was reluctant to work for companies that were smaller and less known.
In doing so, I was depriving myself of tremendous opportunities to explore an area of work that excites me. By taking my internship with a smaller literary agency, I have overcome these negative emotions that were holding me back. Script coverages, research, negotiations, client meetings, the tasks I get to learn vary from day today. A smaller company allows me to wear more hats and appreciate different parts of the business. This freedom to pursue multiple roles gave me space to fall in love with what I’m doing this summer and is molding my future career plans.
So, if you have a passion for something, step out of your comfort zone and try and pursue it on a professional level. Don’t let anybody, including yourself, hold you back from an opportunity that could make you happy. Don’t wait as long as I did to take the next steps to find your path.
I have learned a lot over this summer. This summer, in particular, I have learned the importance of communication. Due to the virtual nature of this role, clear and concise communication has become immensely important. I have learned to give and receive constructive feedback, enjoy creatively brainstorming research strategies with my fellow interns, and help writers find their voice. Overall, my internship has been rewarding in the work I have completed, the relationships I have made, and the fresh perspective I have on my future career goals.
Through my work, I have grown to value internships because they provide real-world experience. They allow you a glimpse into the working world of a career you may want to pursue. The learning experience will help you grow on a professional and personal level. My parents have always said that every experience is a learning one. Every person has the power to teach you something you don’t already know. Keep an open mind and heart when applying to and working in an internship. You never know who or what will change your life forever.