The Power of Internships

THE POWER OF INTERNSHIPS

THE PROCESS OF DESIGNING A FUTURE

By Jacquelyn Campaña

During my early years as a graphic design student, finding my first internship was a daunting experience. Many questions crowded my mind, but the most prominent question was, “Am I ready to take the initial step from the world of education to my chosen career?” Fumbling over my words and preparing myself with the best of my abilities, I proceeded into my first interview with the Chamber of Commerce.

NEW BRANDING, NEW OPPORTUNITIES

Securing an internship with the Chamber was exciting and challenging.I discovered how graphic design is applied to support a business’s communication needs. I also learned the significance of the Chamber’s service to the business community.

The brand transition from Fullerton Chamber of Commerce to North Orange County Chamber of Commerce (NOCC) provided new opportunities to learn. I acquired hands on experience developing and incorporating the new Chamber brand into marketing, advertising,and promotional materials. I worked with our team to redesign the Chamber’s magazine from LiveWorkPlay to PILLAR and expand the organization’s online reach. Recently, I again challenged myself and created the branding for the Chamber’s inaugural SHE Influences Women’s Conference.

RUNNING OVER POTHOLES

Driving back and forth from Cal State Fullerton to Downtown Fullerton while balancing other life commitments was not always a smooth road. Typically, an academic internship lasts three months – a very short amount of time to learn about a business, the people, and the organizational culture. The Chamber extended me an opportunity to continue my experience and continue to learn from the NOCC team.

Provided the challenge to implement a brand across business materials, I took the opportunity to study and analyze the Chamber’s goals, audience, competition, message, and target markets. During this process, the most valuable skill I have improved upon is communication. Effective communication has enabled me to better interact with co-workers and clients and has contributed to my continued professional growth.

TAKING INITIATIVE AND GIVING ADVICE

My advice to interns is to take initiative because an internship is a choice and the outcome is based on your willingness to learn. You gain more than school credit when you go in with a purpose. While experiences may provide unexpected dilemmas, it is remarkable what one can learn when collaborating with others. Push yourself to invest in a greater future, because internships are powerful.

Jacquelyn Campaña is currently at senior at CSUF. She joined the chamber as an intern in January 2016. During her tenure, the Chamber has undergone t ransformational changes strengthening its brand recognition and increasing the organization’s social media footprint.