Well, this first week has truly been something. I would say my transition was much easier than some of the other interns because one, I am from Detroit and two, I did not have to move into the dorms (hope you all are adjusting well by the way!)
Monday at our seminar was my first day meeting my supervisor Mr. Rowe, who was one of the presenters. We spoke afterwards and immediately my nerves subsided and I began to feel more at ease about my time working with Friends of Parkside this summer. FOP is really focused on improving the health and safety of the Villages of Parkside residents and I really appreciate how passionate the entire staff is about uplifting their community. Personally, I am a more interactive individual, so I am really excited about having the opportunity to talk with the residents, as well as organize different events that will integrate the entire community.
It didn’t take long for me to recognize all of the responsibility, dedication, and organization I will need to implement in order to construct successful projects. I believe the most challenging aspect of this job is working independently. Mr. Rowe does not give me a list of task to complete, but instead we discuss what objectives we want to accomplish and the ideas we have about doing so. Then ultimately it is up to me to take initiative and execute a plan. I also have to be mindful that although as my supervisor has told me these are my projects, I still need to incorporate him in the process. So to the say the least I am slowly but surely feeling the pressure and oddly enough I like it.
There is another intern working with me from the University of Phoenix, but he only comes in for three hours a day, so I have been appointed to I suppose “take him under my wing” and help him get acclimated. Mr. Rowe has instructed me to assume a bit of a managerial position because I am in the office more and although that is an added responsibility it is comforting knowing someone is feeling the same pressures I am, but as a team we are working toward a common goal.
Week 1 has been something and I am looking forward to week 2.
How has having another intern working for you been this past week?
I don’t really like to say he’s working for me because I am trying to encourage more of a team effort because I recognize that it is a lot of work and pressure supervising someone else. Overall, he’s been very open and willing to do whatever it takes, so far so good.