Before beginning my internship almost three months ago, I had no idea what to expect. I literally walked into the building my first day and was ready for whatever was thrown my way. Whether it was going to be pouring coffee, scrubbing floors or answering phones calls, I was just excited to get my foot in the door! Little did I know that I would be given a workload of responsibility ahead.Not only do I take care of the Intern Diaries each week, but I have been responsible for the Main Event and Happenings for the June, July and August issues of both Indianapolis Woman and St. Louis Woman magazines. I have also had my own byline for the months of July, August and soon in September. Can I say exciting?! But whew, what a lot of pressure.
Since I work from home 90 percent of the time, you may wonder how do I take care of all this and not get distracted with the beautiful birds chirping outside, my friends calling me to lie by the pool or my bed screaming my name to return? My answer would be a lot of patience.
On a typical day during the week, I wake up around 8 a.m. I walk from the sheets of my bed in my bedroom to the covers of my couch in my living room. I spread all of my notes, pens and anything I need across the coffee table, set up my laptop and charge my cell phone. As soon as I check my e-mail, my day has begun. From about 8:30 a.m. to about 3 p.m., I am making (or waiting on) phone calls, conducting interviews and finishing up articles. I often take a couple of breaks throughout the day –– a few steps to the kitchen and back –– but usually I work constantly to remain on top of things.
Sometimes I feel like I am living in bubble because the only time I really leave my house during the weekdays is to go to work in the evening. I am afraid if I leave, I will miss a phone call, receive an important e-mail or get caught up in something else and not want to return.
Although it has been frustrating spending my summer days indoors, I know that it will all pay off in the future. And don’t get me wrong: I really enjoy what I do. It’s great to write an article and feel a sense of accomplishment for the day. I also have noticed my writing skills have gotten better (or at least they haven’t worsened).
A few weeks ago, I was in Rebecca’s office, and she handed me the June issue with my first printed articles in it. Holding it in my hand, I think I almost teared up. I couldn’t believe my own name was published next to all my hard work. It is nice to receive some recognition for all the stress, time and effort that I have given.
Thinking back, I would have never thought when I entered the building three months ago that I would not only be coming up with ideas for the magazines, but I would write on them too.
Funny how unexpected situations can turn into unbelievable possibilities.
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by Whitney Riggs
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