Last fall I had two internships: one with the local YMCA and another with Campus U, which is a small branch of Universal Pictures. Both internships were primarily independently run – it was up to me how much work I did or didn’t do. Generally neither supervisor was breathing down my neck about doing assignments or finishing projects.
Though the jobs were similar in that respect, they were vastly different in other aspects.
The YMCA focuses on promoting membership, health, community, family and fellowship. We appeal to community members, including the youth, elderly and families.
On the other hand, Campus U focuses on promoting recent movies – getting people to go see the movies, talk about them and buy them. We targeted primarily college students.
It’s interesting to look back and see how differently I managed each internship. Though the YMCA internship was unpaid, I actively pursued ways to promote and help the YMCA. I met with the staff regularly, though I struggled to attend the morning meetings! Quite simply, the YMCA’s mission mattered to me. I felt I was making a diffference.
However, I slacked off almost as religiously for Campus U as I devoted myself to the YMCA. The business’s mission didn’t matter to me; I felt no fullfillment from doing my job. Several of the movies we promoted clashed with my moral stance. On one hand, I felt guilty for promoting the movies, yet on the other I felt guilty for not giving my best efforts to the job. I was miserable and exhausted.
Finally, I re-evaluated my situation and decided something needed to change. I was half-heartedly devoting myself to all of my responsibilities, including my residents. Campus U had to go.
In my short life, I’d never quit anything, so I was terrified to speak to my supervisor and say “it’s over.” Thankfully, he was understanding and we ended on amiable terms. The relief was an incredible feeling.
These two polar opposite internships showed me what career goals I should have. I need to work for an organization or business who I believe in and support. Otherwise I’m cheating not only my employer and myself, but also our audiences.
Work doesn’ have to be “work” – do something you love and support. You can be successful without being happy, but is that really success? I don’t think so. Empty accomplishments. That’s not enough for me.
