She Strengthens

From Sweat to Social Media: My Unconventional Journey

As I slipped into my favorite navy and cream dress, I felt a sense of accomplishment wash over me. Just a few hours earlier, I had been tackling my responsibilities as a social media intern, and now I was ready to take on the rest of my day.

A New Chapter

Two months ago, I embarked on a new adventure – a paid social media internship with my university’s dining services department. It’s a unique opportunity that combines my passion for food with my skills in social media. I work alongside four graphic design interns and three full-time marketing and communications specialists in an open, laid-back office environment.

From Humble Beginnings

But my journey didn’t start here. I used to be a student manager at the same dining hall, where I worked my way up from a simple task-oriented role to a leadership position. It wasn’t always easy, but I learned valuable lessons about hard work, communication, and the importance of connections.

The Power of Positive Attitude

My positive attitude and willingness to learn didn’t go unnoticed. I was promoted to a head student manager role just three weeks after starting, and my passion for my job only grew stronger. I built a reputation throughout the department, and eventually, I landed the social media internship.

A Perfect Fit

The timing couldn’t have been better. I had just finished my college classes, and I still had a few months left on my apartment lease. This internship allowed me to stay in town, work in a field I love, and continue to develop my skills.

Lessons Learned

My experience has taught me that every job, no matter how small it may seem, is valuable. I’ve learned to appreciate the importance of connections, communication, and hard work. And I’ve come to realize that these skills are transferable to any career path I choose to pursue.

The Future Ahead

As I continue on this journey, I’m excited to see where it takes me. Maybe I’ll end up in digital media, an ad agency, or higher ed communications. Or maybe I’ll forge my own path through side hustles. Whatever the future holds, I’m proud to have learned the value of hard work and self-care.