Written by: Yzabella De Los Santos
Going into anything without expectations is hard, and Intern Pursuit is no different. I spent hours researching employers, hoping for my dream internship, and after the big day, I heard nothing back. But it’s not all bad; just attending Intern Pursuit is an accomplishment, no matter the outcome. After attending two Intern Pursuits and now preparing for my third, these are five things I’ve learned.
- Rejection is not the end of the world.
I went into my first Intern Pursuit a mess. I was late, nervous, and altogether unprepared. I had just switched majors and had no idea what to expect. After everything, I was disappointed when I did not hear back from any employers. But rejection is part of the process and helped me get to where I am now. Soon after that, Quotes had open positions for the executive board. I applied on the last day, not expecting much, but I got an interview, which led to me becoming a board member. One of the best things to happen in my academic career came after being rejected. There is so much room to grow after a setback, and the world doesn’t end when it happens. It is just a sign to try again.
- Networking is everything!
Making connections is a huge part of the advertising and public relations industry. Intern Pursuit is a great place to meet people, whether it’s employers, peers, or professors. Opportunities can come from anywhere; you just have to be open to them. Talking to employers, even for positions you weren’t initially interested in, can open doors you never considered. Connecting with classmates can also be valuable. They know about great opportunities and want to help you succeed. I got my current internship after a classmate recommended me for a role at the company where they intern. We had only worked on a group project together, but I made the effort to connect further, which led to a great opportunity. Lastly, professors are excellent resources. Going to their office hours and asking for advice can lead to learning about ways to get involved. I have done this with a few professors and have gained so much experience.
- Any experience is valuable.
Starting is the hardest part, but getting experience, whether it is from a club, internship, or personal project, can be added to your portfolio to showcase your hard work. Personally, most of my experience has come from the organizations I am a part of. Even if it is not an internship, it is still a great way to show employers the skills I’ve developed. When it comes to not getting your dream internship, securing any internship is an achievement. It’s about the skills and experience you gain in the long run. Don’t be discouraged from joining clubs and attending events, because these can lead to valuable experience.
- Confidence and preparation make a huge difference.
Earlier, I mentioned that I was anything but confident or prepared for my first Intern Pursuit. Being ready is crucial, and Quotes has you covered with three prep events to ensure you’re well-prepared. However, there are some things you need to do on your own, like creating a standout resume and portfolio, preparing questions, and knowing how to sell yourself. Confidence is key, and presenting your best self makes a big impact. It’s natural to be nervous, but pushing through can go a long way with employers.
- Opportunities are everywhere
Lastly, opportunities can be found anywhere. Missing one doesn’t mean another isn’t right around the corner. Stay open-minded and persistent because you never know what is in store for you.
Intern Pursuit has so many great employers, and networking events happen all the time, so don’t feel disappointed if Intern Pursuit doesn’t go your way. The best things that have happened to me were unexpected. Stay consistent and work hard!
Even though I didn’t get the internship I originally wanted, I have gained so much experience and learned a lot this year, so don’t give up.
