Intern—a mystery-cloaked word we hear constantly throughout college, and in popular culture through hit movies like The Internship and The Intern. While a job requiring getting coffee for everyone in the office and getting paid next to nothing (or, quite literally, nothing), comes to mind, we wanted to explore what it really means to be an intern. We already take you into the morning and nightly routines of successful women, and into the day-to-day jobs of employees across the country. Now, say hello to Intern Diaries. Below, a twenty-two-year-old working in fashion design tells us about her experience.
Age: 22
City your internship took place: New York, NY
Industry: Fashion
Internship Title: Fashion Design and Development Intern
Salary: None
Duration: 11 weeks
What does your internship title mean?
It mostly means that I work under the design team. I spend most of my time helping our associate designer with day-to-day tasks. I run many errands in the garment district, but I also spend a lot of time helping my boss while in the office.
Were you close with any of your team members?
I absolutely adore my boss, our associate designer. She manages so much and always seems to do it with a smile. I really respect her and am impressed by her every day.
What were your favorite parts of the role and why? 
The moments where my boss gave me a little bit of creative freedom and trusted me to make decisions. I have gotten to do a lot things in this job that most interns don’t get to do.
What was your morning routine? 
When I don’t work out in the morning, I wake up at 7:15am and snooze my alarm for 45 minutes, then I rush through showering, brushing my teeth, washing my face, putting on make up, and making my lunch so that I can leave for work by 8:45am. When I work out I usually wake up at 5:45am, brush my teeth, wash my face, put on workout clothes and head out the door. I shower and get dressed at the gym on those mornings.
What was the most shocking thing that happened during your internship? 
One of my bosses left halfway through the summer and the design intern team had to take on a lot of responsibilities because my one boss had the responsibilities of 4 people. I learned a lot and I learned it fast. Also a box unexpectedly fell, hit me in the head, and gave me a concussion.
What did your evening look like after work? 
My out time is technically 6:30pm, but I like to finish whatever task I am working on before I leave, so I frequently don’t get out the door until 7pm. At least one night a week I grab dinner with friends, but usually, I’m exhausted and just go home and cook something simple.
What were the coolest perks of this internship? 
I don’t know how cool this is- but I really loved working for a small company because I felt like I was really utilized and got to do a lot of things interns don’t usually get to do.
What is the most important thing that you learned in this position? 
The time and effort it truly takes to be an assistant/associate designer.
Would you work for this company if they offered you a position? 
100% yes. I love it here.