I recently completed co-op 101 and one of the things that was discussed as a key factor to a successful co-op is having a mentor. Though everyone at Lividini has taught me a lot, I have found excellent mentors in two specific people: Arrael and Jaclyn. Arrael is my direct supervisor, and Jaclyn is the Media Specialist who handles a lot of the media relations. What makes them excellent mentors, rather than just supervisors, is that they take the time to make sure I not only understand what I'm doing, but why I'm doing it. I remember the first time I worked on an editorial calendar for Jaclyn. It took her only about 5 minutes to explain what to do, but then she followed up with a conversation about what this calendar would be used for and why it was important. Conversations like these taught me about the industry and also reassured me my tasks had importance and were not just "busy work." Also, they give me opportunities to try new challenges and to see a process all the way through. For example, when I was making a lot of hotsheets (product sheets to send to editors), Arrael would then let me help write the pitch, and copy me on emails to and from editors of how that pitch was followed through.
Having these two excellent mentors has helped me gain a deeper understanding of my job and also see possibilities for how I can grow in this field and industry. Coupled with consistent encouragement and advice, I really have gotten a lot out of my internship. I recommend finding a great mentor to anyone with an internship. I just got lucky to have two!
I totally agree with you that having a mentor is extremely important at co-op. I too, have one at mine which is my direct supervisor as well. I feel like it is so important to learn everything you can from them because one day you might want to be in their position.
ReplyDelete