Over J-Term, I was fortunate enough to intern with Indianapolis Monthly Magazine right in the heart of Circle City. As a journalism major with four measly months left at Miami, this opportunity came at the perfect time and helped me prepare for the fast-approaching real world in so many ways. As an editorial intern, I learned to fact-check pieces from writers. My main job was to make sure that articles were factually and grammatically correct before going to print. Fact-checking can be quite tedious, but it is vital to keeping a publication on schedule. Through doing this type of work, I learned how to approach a written piece of work in an inquisitive manner and then thoroughly comb through the details. In the journalism industry, one’s livelihood depends on credibility. There is a responsibility to the readers to publish correct information; you publish one little slip-up and readers’ loyalty to your blog/column/magazine will be compromised in one way or another. So even if it wasn’t the most glamorous work I have ever done, I knew it was important so I was really excited to get the chance to contribute in this way and I definitely earned a new appreciation for magazines. Gone are the days of simply flipping through a publication without thinking of the intricate progress of meeting a deadline.
As an aspiring editor, I saw every day as a chance to practice my trade and hone my skills. Every lesson learned through a university lecture or assignment in the past came to life when I was forced to think on my feet and apply it to my work at their office. I was thrilled to also work one-on-one with the magazine’s editors in constructing my first printed magazine pieces. I was also given the chance to collaborate with the editor-in-chief, which was something I never expected but will forever appreciate. During my time at the publication, I was also assigned a mentor who assisted me with my projects and made sure that I was reaching my full potential. With this mentor, I learned so much about utilizing sources and how to pick angles for my articles.
Now, I realize that no two internships are the same, but here are a few tips that I hope you find helpful regardless of the type of intern position you sink:
Wake up and put on your game face: Okay, I’ll be honest: when I’m in a new environment, I can get awkward. Like crack-dumb-jokes-tight-crossed-arms-Jess-Day-is-my-spirit-animal awkward. So knowing myself oh-too-well, I was proactive and gave myself a little mental pep talk before my commute into work on my first day. This may sound silly, but sometimes I forget that people are just people- no matter how accomplished or wealthy or gorgeous someone is, they are just trying to do their best like you so don’t let yourself get too intimidated. It’s important to always remember this so you don’t clam up and sell yourself short in a situation that could otherwise lead to another awesome opportunity! You have to realize that the pay-off of your experience is far too great to waste time being uncomfortable in a new city or in a new office. So put on your big girl pants, leave the nerves at home, and go show ‘em what you’re really made of!
Get to know the heavy hitters: In any work environment, I believe it is extremely important to observe and take note of who does what and most importantly, who does what well. Get to know the professional whom you admire for one reason or another and learn as much as you can from them. As an intern, you are expected to be curious! Be upfront with them and ask them how they can help you reach your goals.
Ask stupid questions: In my opinion, the time spent at an internship should be treated as nothing less than precious. Therefore, you should never waste a single opportunity to learn something new. Ask questions and ask them often. Regardless of how intimidated you might be by someone, always remember that they were in your position at some point and are understanding of what it is like to be young and just starting out. So whether it’s asking your boss how to get an advantage over your competition or how to properly use their fancy printer (yep, that happened), ask confidently because it shows that you’re a go-getter and that you’re taking your experience seriously.
Explore!: While your number one priority should be to gain work experience, I found that it is also important to see your internship as more of a well-rounded adventure. Getting to know the city I was working in made my time there that much more special. After working hard all week, don’t be afraid to go full-on tourist on Saturday! Don’t forget to utilize your co-workers! I learned so much about the city I was living in simply by asking the staff about their stomping grounds. Locals are so proud of their city and will jump at any opportunity to recommend the best of the best restaurants and attractions.