I remember being on-boarded for my internship opportunity the same way I remember my first day of college: excited, anxious, and a bit out of place as if I didn’t belong. I know many students do not have the opportunity to intern with startup ventures in Detroit, which means a lot to me because of my roots to the city. This is what actually what drew me to apply for this internship with D&R Marketing. This experience gave me the opportunity to network, engage, and learn a lot about myself and other’s character, which is why I inserted the quote above!
From the very first day with the Human Resources department, where I was helping onboard high school interns, everyone welcomed me as a member of the team and genuinely expected me to make an impactful contribution. I hit the ground running, working with eager high school students, some who are currently attending the high school I graduated from.
The experience helped me better understand the incredible reach of just one start-up agency in Detroit and made me realize that the work interns do at startup companies is not trivial – it is integral to the planning, development, and innovation of such an entity.
But the work—meaningful as it was—was only a small part of what made my experience so special. The networking opportunities, the marketing exposure and the social impact the agency has made this a once in a lifetime experience.
There are many reasons to consider interning with start-up agencies in developing urban areas, but perhaps none is more worthwhile than being a part of something bigger than yourself. The important work done changes the lives of all the individuals involved.
It has certainly changed mine.
Take Care,
Ken!
lsa summer vocation 2016 