Alyssa Marquez gained experience in commercial real estate management, administration, and planning at Larsen Baker.
How did you get your internship?
I wanted an internship that would give me opportunities to learn more about the commercial real estate industry. With my goal in mind, I then went on the hunt for the best company for my internship. After I did research on the different commercial real estate companies and sorted through them to find the company I felt that would fit best, I reached out to my network. Through my connections, I was able to get the phone number of the president of Larsen Baker. I then had a phone call with the president, and scheduled an interview. After interviewing I was offered the position, and started a few weeks later!
Something unique about my position is that I was actually offered two different internship opportunities during my internship search, and I had to make a decision on which one to accept. I assessed both opportunities, and followed my gut and chose Larsen Baker. I felt that it would be an amazing opportunity and would let me know if my talents align in the industry or not.
What was a favorite project that you worked on at your internship?
My favorite project that I have worked on is actually not even in my job description! I was given the opportunity to pick out the furniture for a large office in the foothills, and style it however I wanted. I was given a budget and was able to choose all of the furniture, accessories, paintings etc. for the communal space in the lobby. I had the best time with this project, and it made me realize how much I love interior design.
What did you find challenging about your internship?
The most challenging part of my internship was getting into the rhythm of office culture. This was my first job in an office environment. Before this I had previously worked retail and in restaurants, which did not give me enough experience to be thrown head first into an office environment. What I learned from this is that I can adapt into any setting I want with ease! I thought I was going to be awkward or feel out of place but I was able to showcase my thoughtfulness, empathy, and kindness to my coworkers which made them understand that it was my first office job.
How did your Applied Humanities major coursework help prepare you for the internship experience?
All of the classes that I had taken in the humanities field prepared me for my internship experience. The humanities classes have shown me how to communicate with others in a seamless way, no matter who I am speaking to, which has led to connections and networking opportunities. I have cultivated more empathy than I ever thought possible during my time in college, which helped me to be a better coworker. By learning about my transferable skills, I was able to capitalize on those because I had already reflected on what my strengths were.
What was the most satisfying part of your internship?
The most satisfying part of my internship happened three months after starting there. I was called into my supervisor's office for a meeting, and was initially nervous about it. I wondered briefly if I was in trouble, but found out at the meeting that I was offered a paid internship - this was very exciting because I had previously been unpaid. Not only did they begin paying me but they also offered me a full time position after I graduated! This was satisfying because it assured me that all of my hard work was seen and appreciated.
How has your internship experience influenced your plans for your future?
My internship has completely changed my plans for my future. Originally after college I was going to move to a big city and try to pursue a job in fashion. When looking for internships I was open to other careers because I knew it was important to me to explore my options before deciding upon my next step. Now, after I graduate, I will be working at Larsen Baker full time and I am thrilled! If you would have told me this would have happened a year ago, I would have laughed in your face! Now I am feeling good, secure, and confident about my future plans and it is all thanks to my internship.