Last Night in Town

Today is my last day as an Intern at Keating Magee and second to last day in New Orleans. I have to say that I am genuinely sad to be leaving both KM and the city. It's going to be hard to leave New Orleans and everything I love about it. I would guess that for most people, they're lucky not to trip on their own shoelaces as they sprint out the door in haste on the last day of their jobs.

In an attempt not to be too sappy, I can say that my work experience here has been phenomenal. I couldn't have asked for more in an internship. I have managed to get hands-on experience in so many aspects of marketing, and also contribute my own unique skills (like wrapping this ADORABLE sea turtle) in a meaningful way. Keating Magee really is a team and I feel like I got to be a real, valuable part of it, which is more than what most people I know can say about their experience.

My personal experience in New Orleans has also been amazing. This city is incredible, and even after four full years I still feel like there is so much to see. I'm sure that I will visit every chance I get. As far as my last day in NOLA goes, I have some plans, but inevitably they will be foiled because of all the packing I am going to have to do. BUT - come hell or high water I will have an oyster poboy tomorrow, oil spill or no oil spill, because as I have found out from experience, there is really nothing like a fried oyster.

A Few Tips on Getting the Most Out of Your Internship...

So you've landed your first internship. You are probably feeling a variety of emotions - You're excited, a little nervous, and perhaps feel completely unprepared. But do not worry, because I have left you with a few things I have learned to ensure that you have the best internship experience.

1. Do your best work on all projects, no matter how big or small they are: Everybody has to start somewhere, and if you are starting out with your hand permanently attached to a file cabinet, that's okay! It's important to learn that even the most menial tasks can lead to big results. As you get more comfortable doing the simple things, it's very likely that your employer will become more comfortable giving you more important projects.

2. Always ask what else you can do to help: Once you're finished with a task, ask what else you can do to help. You should be looking for things to do, that way you can take full advantage of the learning opportunities you have been given.

3. Don't have a panic attack if you make a mistake: It will happen eventually. There is no need to get upset because you are expected to make a few mistakes down the road, and it's these mistakes that will help you learn. So when it does happen, take a few breaths, and learn how to fix your mistake.

4. Ask questions: If you don't understand something, ask for some clarification. You're new at this and although you may think you know all there is to know, chances are - you don't. So don't be afraid to admit you don't understand something or may need more explanation.

5. Get to know your coworkers: Getting to know your coworkers makes the workday a lot more enjoyable. After all, if they are working in the same industry as you, chances are you may have similar interests. Also, forming good relationships in the office can lead to future business contacts down the road.

Hopefully these tips will help all those internship-seekers out there to have a better understanding of what to expect and how to react in different situations. It's been a great summer for me at Keating Magee - I've learned a lot and am leaving with a better understanding of the business I hope to one day be a part of.