Dear future interns,
I’m Emily, and I had the honor of being part of the 8THIRTYFOUR intern dynasty.
It was one of the best experiences in my college career, and gave me more real-world experience than a class ever could–plus it looks great on a resume!
Nothing will match the unique experience of working at 8THIRTYFOUR as an intern. Trust me, it’s not every internship you get flown out to Washington D.C to help with an event only to be back in accounting class later that day.
As I graduate and move on to the next phase of my professional life, I am here to pass on all the wisdom I gained while working at 8THIRTYFOUR.
The Intern Mindset
There was nothing more exciting than receiving my first desk and space in the office as an intern–even if it was next to the printer for my first month.
Scoring your first internship is the greatest feeling, but when you get to the office it’s no longer about you–it’s about the team.
The best mindset to have as an intern is “how can I be helpful today”. Sure you are there to learn, but you’ll quickly find that time is the greatest currency for any agency. There will be plenty of time to laugh and have fun, but foremost you are a team player so be ready to work.
Lessons Learned
As a daughter of small business owners, I have always admired the grit and determination of small business owners like Kim Bode. It’s a tirelessly rewarding situation to be in and I can look at and say, one of the most admirable.
Even as I depart from 8THIRTYFOUR, the skills and ability to be resourceful will stay with me. In this regard, being resourceful is its own form of creativity–that means bringing your “whatever it takes mentality” to challenges along the way. At 8THIRTYFOUR we like to call this being “scrappy”, and even when I depart I promise to be scrappy (not the dog…he’s pretty cute though).
(Me and scrappy)
Accidents Happen
Internships are a time for growth and often an opportunity to make mistakes … and let’s be honest, you will make one or two along the way.
Accidents happen and as Kim says “We’re not saving lives here”, but be ready for the feedback that comes with those mistakes and take accountability when due. Companies that take on interns are well aware of the risk of having young professionals involved in business affairs, but also the reward of being able to train the next generation.
Just.. try not to delete too many company assets and you’ll be off to a great start!
Stand Out
And no I don’t mean with just really cute outfits.
It means volunteering for things you’ve never done before, like refilling the coffee machine (I actually have never figured this one out).
Even checking in with your fellow coworkers offering to take something off their plate. No need to sit idling at your desk waiting for a task–get up and ask how you can make their day a little easier.
And Most Importantly…
Be you.
You may not be in the office all day, but your coworkers are. If you’re good at cracking a joke or making someone laugh, do it. A positive attitude, a little bit of humor, and excitement to help others will shape the culture beyond just your experience.
Soon your coworkers will look forward to seeing your beautiful face walk through those doors, and may I even say…miss you when you graduate or move on to a new role.
Best wishes future 8THIRTYFOUR intern,
Emily Feikema
