The three of us, Hannah, Oliver and I (Sarah-Grace, left to right in the photo), spent the summer interning at one of the best places in town, the Chattanooga Chamber.
Here, we each share our top three takeaways from an incredible learning experience at the Chamber as we head into our final year of college.
Sarah-Grace Battles, Communications Intern
* School: University of Tennessee at Chattanooga
* Major: Communication
* Minors: Political Science, Women's Studies
* Hometown: Greensboro, N.C.
1. Pay attention to details.
While I'm naturally detail oriented, I still think this is crucial. Being new to something, details can get lost and the easiest way to make sure that doesn't happen is to pay close attention and take notes.
2. Don't be afraid to ask questions.
The best way to learn is to ask questions, ask for advice and ask for guidance. It can be intimidating at first because we, as interns, don't want to look like we don't know what we're doing, but that's the point of an internship - to learn.
3. Make it count.
I've learned more during my time here than I thought possible. I stepped out of my comfort zone, and I appreciate everyone at the Chamber for working with me and helping me learn this summer.
Hannah Peyton, Marketing Intern
* School: Valdosta State University
* Major: Marketing
* Minor: Advertising and Promotions
* Hometown: Decatur, Ill.
1. Communication is key.
Communication is everything in an effective work environment. It's important to be clear and concise to minimize issues and stress while ensuring projects are completed on time.
2. Be flexible.
More than once, I was thrown into the middle of a big upcoming event or project. I learned to jump right in. Going with the flow and keeping an open mind made it more manageable to complete assignments.
3. Read your emails.
Almost daily, someone emails the company about leftover food. If you don't read it in time, it's too late and there's no food left. But really, a lot of important information is sent out via email and as stated in no. 1, communication is super important.
Oliver Beers, Economic Development Intern
* School: Covenant College
* Major: Economics
* Minor: Sociology
* Hometown: Miami, Fla.
1. Get things done for people who ask you to do things.
In this internship, even something like being five minutes late can mess up someone else's schedule a lot. I'm learning that being consistent and trustworthy is as important as any above-and-beyond work you do. Example of how I'm still learning this: I'm writing this a week after the deadline (sorry, Sarah-Grace).
2. Know your skills, and let others know.
If you're asked to do something you're unsure about, don't be embarrassed to ask for help. For example, I'm not the strongest writer. So I try to submit writing assignments before the deadline so I can get editing help.
3. Keep an extra dress shirt.
It's summer, it's hot, I sweat. Get a light sports coat that doesn't make you hellaciously hot if you're outside for more than 5 minutes. This is only applicable to summer internships, but feel free to replace "dress shirt" with "parka" for winter internships.