It was May 2017. I had applied to several internships through the year, had many interviews, and I had not gotten an internship offer. Then one day out of nowhere, I received an email from CMT/Viacom media networks extending a Human Resources internship offer to me. I was ecstatic, especially because all that hard with my internship search paid off and was given the opportunity to work with Viacom, a well known global entertainment company. As someone who is Japanese born, New Jersey raised, has lived in Manhattan and Tokyo, I never imagined I would relocate to Nashville, Tennessee, especially since I had no knowledge of the city. But I knew that I had to learn to adapt to my new environment since it would help me what is is like to live on my own without any relatives/friends around and jumpstart my career.
When I arrived and got settled in to my apartment, I was welcomed with open arms. My supervisors were extremely helpful and gave me great advice on my field and assigned me helpful HR related work that I enjoyed. My fellow interns that participated along with an internship at CMT/Viacom in Nashville, were super nice and friendly, and I couldn’t have asked for a better group. I also got to assist backstage at the CMT Music Awards as a talent escort and got to see many country stars and celebrities such as Keith Urban, Carrie Underwood, Blake Shelton, Luke Bryan, Miranda Lambert, Brett Eldredge, Jason DeRulo, Ashton Kutcher, Rachel Bilson, Johnny Galecki and more. Interning at CMT/Viacom was a once in a lifetime opportunity and an incredible experience to be a part of, especially since I was exposed to a new city, new experiences and fantastic people. Nashville is also a great city to visit, as it includes a very laid back vibe, friendly natives, diversity, great barbecue, and will have a special place in my heart. For students on the internship search, keep an open mind you never know what great experiences you will have and don’t give up!