What were the most important things you learned from this
internship? Look back to your first blog post. Did you meet your initial goals?
Why or why not?
Wow! I can't believe my time at the Town of Gilbert is coming to an end! Where does the time go? I can't help but feel sad that I will be leaving in the next few weeks. As I reflect on my internship this fall, I can't help but think of a quote from one of my favorite musicals, Wicked. The lead character turns to her best friend and says:
Well, I whole heartedly believe this is true, because the people and experiences I have learned during my internship has changed me for good. Coming to work was the highlight of my day. I was extremely fortunate to be part of a team that challenged me to continuously grow in ways I never thought possible. I learned so much about working in municipal government such as the inner dynamics of personnel relationships, the role of government and how it affects the administration of programs and project funding, the collaborative partnerships between local and state governments and the importance of nonprofits and face-based communities to help governments serve their citizens. I refined and honed my policy analysis, research, and writing skills in addition to interviewing and program and project analysis. My internship allowed me to work in a wide array of areas from human services, volunteering, zoning and design review, and e-cigarette regulations. I even challenged myself in areas of weakness such as public speaking. Speaking in front of Town staff, the executive team, and the TOWN COUNCIL was one of the most anxiety inducing experiences I have ever had. Yet, I was able to conquer my fears to give some of the best presentations I've ever given in my life.
That brings me to one of the most important lessons I have learned during my internship. By conquering my public speaking and networking fears, I found something I never expected to find. I found my voice. The Intergovernmental Relations team let me know I was a person of worth and as such I should command respect and attention. I could go on about this, but I think I would like to keep it where it is.
There are so many people I'm going to miss now that I think about it. My Wonder Woman awesomesauce boss, Leah Hubbard; My brilliant supervisor, Heather Wikley; My fun and easy-going co-worker, Kurt Sharp; My lovable and dearest co-worker, Vickie; My other supervisor queen of the Gilbert-verse, Andi; and last but not least one of the funniest, personable, and seriously my home skillet supervisor, Gabe.
I'm extremely grateful for the experiences and time that I have had here at the Town of Gilbert. I'm absolutely thankful for the people I have met and the memories I will keep for the rest of my life. I know this blog sounds super sentimental, but I'm in the holiday mood and I just had a glass of eggnog and some delicious christmas cookies. Happy Holidays everyone.
Santa visiting the Gilbert Police Department |
The Intergov Team: Me, Leah, Vicky, and Heather |
My Fiance and I: Merry Xmas |