Anyway, I compiled a short list of how being an intern can be a neat experience.
- Not too much accountability. It's nice to know that when you screw something up, it's ok because you're new and inexperienced (relative to the people who have been around for 10, 20, maybe 30 years already) and coworkers are usually forgiving. If they aren't, well...
- ...you know where you don't want to work when you "grow up." Especially if it's a bad experience on multiple levels (mean boss, uncomfortable work culture, coworkers with no motivation/ethics, etc.)
- Resume-fodder. Oh, and actual work experience is great.
- The promise of future employment! Keep at it, and you could find yourself in a real job...scary.
- New friends (kind of). You're in a new environment, which means you'll probably meet new people. They probably won't be your bff, but at least you can share experiences with others, as well as gain valuable contacts (woo networking!).
- Something to do over the summer. No more mind-crushing boredom, and your parents can be proud that you're finally starting to pay off your student loans. That is, if you're
- Getting paid. Unless it's an unpaid internship. But hey, at least you still get the experience, right? Even if you aren't getting paid, you still probably get, and this is my personal favorite,
- Perks/freebies. Love love love these. Bags, buttons, raincoats, bags of nuts, all with the company logo emblazoned on them. Sure, it's an unsubtle way to advertise to everyone who sees you, but who cares--you have free nuts! Oooh and they're honey-roasted!
