A Zentern’s Experience

Graduation is generally a time of excitement coupled with feelings of accomplishment. This joyous occasion has somewhat been hampered by the present state of the economy. Instead of picking a job based on personal wants and desires, it has turned to accepting jobs out of necessity. The job market has created a competitive environment, more so than years before, making certain skills vital in the search for a career. The following depicts the past few months, up to my current position, giving some insight into the world of a new graduate and intern.

Senior year is coming to an end with the “real world” fast approaching. At this point I am completing my internship required for graduation. This internship is cleared by the university, ensuring the student is attaining a certain level of knowledge and experience from the current site. I am enjoying my time with the company, but am fully aware of the fact that the business can not afford to hire me on at the end of my internship. Throughout this internship, my boss frequently reminded me that networking is a key to success. From the start of that internship, I was constantly attending networking functions, whether it be with my boss, or flying solo. I met numerous successful people, not only representing Denver, but representing the international realm as well. While it wasn’t always effortless or comfortable, it was valuable.

Through my contacts, I became aware of a position at a company called Zenman Productions. I immediately located the website and was extremely interested and impressed by the company. They had what seemed to be a solid client list, a solid foundation, and a creative atmosphere. After contacting the company, I was offered an interview, followed by an intern position. While internships generally don’t pay the bills, the experience and knowledge that comes with them carries dollar signs that aren’t instantaneously deposited into the bank account. I took the position with a smile on my face acknowledging it as a way for me to get my foot in the door. In a time when companies can’t afford to hire, or are skeptical of adding to staff, internships are a good way to exhibit capabilities and work ethic, among other things. In a perfect world, a full time position is the end result of the hard work put in. If this is not the case, the internship can’t be viewed as a waste. The knowledge acquired and skills attained are not only a bonus for the resume, but are also helpful in making yourself more marketable to future employers.

With a bit of time to reflect on my internship thus far, I have found it to be a positive experience. I have been included in many of the day to day operations where most interns would have been cast aside. The company does exhibit a solid foundation, creative environment, and a clientele list that continues to grow. With awards being won and recognition being paid, I am pleased that the employees have remained friendly and humble, which is a tip of the cap to the character of the company.

Thank you Zenman Productions for the knowledge, experience, and overall opportunity of interning for the company!