An Unexpected Internship

Many students speak of an internship stint as a boring, mundane experience, and I for one did not want an internship that subjected me to menial tasks, like getting coffee for the boss or assigned to me the role of office boy. For those of you wondering what is an 'office boy', it is a job title for the person in an office who runs errands, for instance delivering important documents or the more complex job, collecting documents. To me, an internship was a chance to test the waters of public relations, where I will be awarded responsibilities, tasks, deadlines, and given the opportunity to express my ideas. Interview after interview, it was getting more and more probable that I was to resign to an internship that was similar to the ones my friends went through. "Why not?" I thought, I was after all a lowly intern.

Then it all changed! One bright sunny morning I mentioned to the head of the International Division, Mr. Jean-Paul Mouton that I was looking for an internship and was finding it hard to find one that complied with my requirements. After an interview he offered me an internship that was exactly what I was looking for!

I have never looked back at my decision to carry out my PR Internship at the International Division. Not only are my colleagues so supportive, the working culture has taught me so much since I started. It has instilled in me the habit of coming to work early in the morning and performing as best as I can! There are deadlines, events, and other tasks that I relish, and although the stress levels can get a little much at times, it has only served to make me stronger.

So much to do.. So little time!

So, my internship was a little slow to start, so my stress started to build. I did a few days here and there but was unsure of when I would be given a little more responsibility as my tasks to date were pretty admin based as it is an events company...

Me, being me, was worried that I wasn't learning as much as I could and asked for extra tasks... And they delivered. 

I am so excited, I am now working on the four ANZAC Day 2015 events at Kings Park and in the city! For these events I have to create a community engagement strategy, a boiler plate (information one pager), FAQ document for the ANZAC Day 2015 website, writing a letter to the local residents and organising sponsorship! While they are challenging tasks and it is completely different writing something that is going to be published and used rather than an assignment. I am really looking forward to getting these tasks underway and into my portfolio. 

For large events, the surrounding communities must be consulted and kept up to date with road closures, noise levels and parking, if the event is to run smoothly.

Hope you are all enjoying your placements! I can't wait to start these tasks and experience real deadlines! 

Montana