It never felt like three months had gone by. I barely even recognized the weather changing. The work I’ve done and will continue doing for the agency has brought me so much joy.
At the beginning of my internship, I was quite shy and never wanted to make mistakes. Along the way, my teammates and manager showed support for my work and believed in my capabilities. I started to push myself out there. By midway through my internship, I began taking on more tasks, participating in new business projects and offering support wherever possible. It seems like a lot to do, but I wouldn’t have learned so much about the agency without it.
As my internship progressed, I realized that the key to growth was embracing discomfort. I found myself in meetings where I had to speak up, share my ideas and sometimes even defend them. At first, this was nerve-racking. But with every communication, my confidence grew. It wasn’t just about completing assignments anymore; it was about actively contributing to the agency’s goals. I started to feel like a valued part of the team, not just an intern passing through.
What surprised me most was how much I enjoyed the problem-solving aspect of the work. It’s fulfilling to go into a job that requires you to think ahead proactively or analyze the tiniest perspective to find a new way to accomplish a task.
When an offer was put on the table, it seemed like the right choice. I came to love Portland and its beauty, love the people I work with and overall love seeing my work bloom.
Now, as I transition from intern to full-time team member, I feel excited about the future.
This experience has shaped not only my professional skills but also my perspective on what a fulfilling career looks like. Hoffman helped me find work that I’m passionate about and surround myself with people who support my growth.
To those starting their journey, my advice is simple: Be open to everything. Say yes to opportunities, even if they feel outside your comfort zone. Ask questions, seek feedback and don’t be afraid to take initiative. The more you immerse yourself, the more you’ll get out of it. And remember, it’s OK to not have all the answers. Growth comes from being curious, taking risks and allowing yourself to evolve along the way.
Looking back, I’m incredibly grateful for this internship. It’s been the stepping stone to a career I’m genuinely excited about, and I can’t wait to see where this journey takes me next.
