Navigating the internship landscape
After working full-time through the pandemic, I decided to resume my education at College of the Redwoods. While not completely sure what my career goals were, I knew I wanted to be a part of the business world. A few weeks into my first semester, a professor had sent a message informing students about a new internship opportunity with a local business, Premier Financial Group.
After researching the opportunity, I felt like it would be perfect for me. The internship, nestled in the realms of marketing within the finance industry, promised a range of learning experiences within the world of business. After a few interviews, I received the news that the internship was mine!
From day one, I was provided with the possibility to develop myself professionally and learn new skills. I gained firsthand experience with various programs, ranging from Photoshop to Excel. Networking with local professionals and small businesses created valuable connections. This journey allowed me to refine essential skills such as organization, problem-solving, initiative, and more.
It became evident how impactful and transformative internships can be. However, this revelation underscored the scarcity of such opportunities for students in Humboldt County. In larger cities, internships are considered the norm, providing crucial experience for graduates entering the workforce. This scarcity not only creates an imbalance but also perpetuates a cycle where the absence of opportunities restricts the growth and preparedness of our future professionals. This issue not only affects individual aspirations but also inhibits the community's overall progress.
The prevailing stereotype of interns confined to coffee runs and menial tasks adds another layer to this dilemma. The truth is that internships provide incredible value to not only young professionals but businesses as well. Transcending these misconceptions about internships is crucial to generating personal and collective growth in the community.
An important part of creating an internship opportunity within your business is maximizing the value. How can this be done? To start, actively involve and immerse interns in your team. This not only opens doors for the introduction of unique perspectives but also encourages the generation of fresh ideas. Contrary to the notion of mere task delegation, interns often possess a sense of naivety that fosters creativity and progressive thinking. It's this very freshness that can breathe new life into projects and contribute to the overall dynamism of a workplace.
Additionally, internships offer a chance to create a talent pipeline. By supplying a structured learning environment, businesses can play a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of professionals. This proactive approach allows for the instillation of values, the nurturing of ambition, and the prevention of bad habits before they take root.
I am now over a year into my internship at Premier Financial Group and gratitude fills my heart for the opportunities presented by both Premier and the College of the Redwoods. The culmination of this journey leads me to my next step: I have recently been accepted to Cal Poly Humboldt, where I will major in business with a minor in mathematics.
As the narrative of my internship journey unfolds, I invite students, business owners, and advocates to be part of the challenge:
• If you are a local student, seek professional development opportunities. Reach out to businesses, attend career fairs, and communicate your initiative to learn and improve.
• Business owners, nurture the potential of the next generation of professionals by establishing internship programs. Contribute to growth while introducing fresh perspectives into your workplace. Reach out to local educational institutions and initiate partnerships.
• Everyone, advocate by joining the conversation for increased internship opportunities in your local community. Engage with educational institutions, local businesses, and policymakers to foster an environment where internships are not just an exception but an expectation.
Everyone, advocate by joining the conversation for increased internship opportunities in your local community.