The article, found here http://www.usatodayeducate.com/staging/index.php/career/your-bad-internship-could-be-the-best-thing-for-you, speaks a lot about the fact that no internship is perfect. However, I noticed that I once had a bad internship just by reading this article.
It was my first internship, actually. I worked for a radio station. I thought it would be a great deal of fun, and would provide me with experience to gain other internships. However, nothing went according to plan that summer and I felt like a work horse/slave most of the time. This just wasn't the job for me. I had friends from that internship that LOVED their experiences, and I am glad they did; I found out radio just wasn't for me.
Some things that stuck out to me from this article were:
- "A bad experience can help you identify your needs and preferences so you can avoid toxic positions...in the future." Yep. Did that. I have had nothing but amazing experiences since this internship.
- "Consider alternative occupations." I hate journalism. Found that out while interning there.
I have to say, it did provide great things for me. I have since landed some of the most sought-after internships in Des Moines all because of my start here. While it wasn't a "go get me coffee" kind of internship, it was far from what I wanted. Any internship experience can provide valuable information for the future. I now know my way around Des Moines because of all the travelling. I met pseudo-celebrities. I spent hours at the Arts Festival and the Iowa State Fair, two of my favorite places. I learned to drive a huge radio station van. I met some amazing other interns. I realized anything you say or do can be held against you and I should bite my tongue when the opportunity arises.
I wouldn't accept that internship experience again, even if in dire need. I also wouldn't take that one away. I am glad I went through such an experience. I learned more about myself than anything.
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