I really enjoyed getting to learn some of the inner workings of the state. I learned some of the ins and outs of grant programs, got to collaborate with a multitude of people who work in fields completely different than my own, and had the privilege of learning new skills from those with years of experience, while still applying skills I have gained throughout my educational career.
What I wish was different
I wish that I could have worked more closely with our Public Information Officer, as her job and scope of work is much more relevant to that of my field of study.
Advice
One piece of advice I would give to anyone looking for an internship, or looking to gain their first bit of experience in the professional world, would be to stay open! I jumped into a field completely different from my own, as I am a Communications major and at NDEP, I work largely with environmental scientists. However, I didn't let this deter me and I remained open and welcoming of the journey that lay ahead of me. It pays off in a big way. Be open and receptive to new things, even if they are outside of your comfort zone or area of focus.
