Kelsey Grijalva developed skills in content strategy and media creation at a social media agency that specializes in working with creative entrepreneurs.
How did you get your internship?
It took some time for me to find an internship that really interests me. I spent many months actively searching the internet for an internship that seemed exciting and fun. As soon as I found one that even interested me in the slightest, I would apply. I got my internship after reaching out by sending a cold email (meaning, I emailed them even though I didn’t know them yet). After a few emails back and forth I had to complete a few creative tasks to prove I was the right fit. After that was approved, I attended one in person interview before getting offered this position for the semester. I was excited to challenge myself and work for Wagner Perspective, a social media marketing agency. I already had a love for social media, and remained excited to see what I could learn from this internship position. I chose this opportunity amongst others because it made me curious and eager to challenge myself.
Something unique and neat that also gravitated me towards this internship was learning that the founder of the company was a University of Arizona alumni. This made it extra special to connect with her and relate to each other while working together.
Describe your internship experience.
My favorite part of this internship was seeing the content that I created reach high engagement which was a very rewarding feeling. I enjoyed making an impact on clients' social media engagement with the work and creativity I had created. It was fun to have training sessions where I could learn new skills and instantly apply them to my work. I really enjoyed how this internship was completely done on my phone. I loved the convenience of being able to get work done quickly and receive feedback at any time. This internship made me realize how much I enjoy a remote experience.
Something that I found really challenging with this internship was the constant battle with technology problems. I know how technology issues can arise here and there; but in social media there are so many issues that you are bound to face. It was a struggle when sites would crash or apps would fail to complete tasks that they are meant to do. This taught me a lot of resilience and how to stay calm when issues are out of my control.
What skills did you develop during your internship?
This internship overall was an amazing experience and I learned a lot and gained many new skills. For example, some of the new transferable skills I gained through this opportunity are creative thinking/writing, audience development, content strategy, and media creation. Something I did not expect was to learn how to navigate new creative platforms and apps. I gained digital media skills which have allowed me to gain confidence in my digital work and abilities.
How has your internship experience influenced your plans for your future?
This opportunity influenced my plans for the future because it reminded me that I could potentially be good at a lot of things I have not even tried. This internship reminded me that whatever path I have in mind can always change, perhaps for the better.
What advice do you have for other students as they search for their internship?
I would encourage other students to also branch out and seek opportunities you may not have planned to try out. You might totally end up loving an experience and the people you meet and work with can have a major impact on your experience and future!