I remember getting up early to iron my uniform. I had breakfast after fixing my bed and took a bath under cold water despite the morning breeze. As I rode a jeep, I felt nothing but mixed emotions. There's a part of me that feels so excited thinking that I'll meet my classmates again. On the other hand, I also feel exhausted thinking about unending lessons, schoolwork, and exams. I know that you too, have reached the point that you're eagerly praying- "SANA WALANG PASOK BUKAS."
Along with the decision to continue classes is the implementation of virtual internships.
For every college student like me, an internship is one of the most memorable experiences we might have. We can't deny the fact that coronavirus has critically affected our economy, resulting in some companies and businesses closing their operation. Therefore, the options become limited as well as experiences.
I remember how torn I was on pushing my internship this year or not, as I'm still hoping that this setup will change next year. And with the fact that it's hard to find a company that has a good shift schedule and work-from-home setup. Plus, a good workplace environment during these trying times. But I guess continuing my internship this year is not bad at all and indeed an excellent choice that I made.
When I got accepted as an intern in AIA Philippines and officially worked as part of the company, I finally experienced the trials and struggled virtually. As one of the most renowned insurance companies in the country, communication is prominent to the company, and seeing face-to-face is an advantage. I remember the struggle to get in contact with other clients. Some of us are MIA during meetings due to poor internet connection. It also requires extra discipline due to many distractions and miscommunication.
Overall, even in a bad situation, there's always a positive side. With this internship, I met different people with different expertise; I found new online friends from other schools and fields and made connections that will last a lifetime. I overcame obstacles that I never thought I could and became more ready to face my future than ever. I found this new energy on me that is eager and excited on the path where I'm leading. Even with this set-up, giving these realistic experiences gives me a bridge to prepare and look forward to more real-world experiences.
Now, as we peek into other COMM students who pursue their internship this year, these communication students share their insights on working in different fields virtually:
James Nicholas, a graduating student who chose to pursue his internship at Adamson University, shared how an internal internship is much better than in a company still adapting to the new work arrangement. "I had two internships during the mid-year. First was external, a company where I resigned [from] because of the excessive workload without guidance and how it affected me mentally. Some tasks are not course-related," he said.
Nevertheless, Nicholas stated how his internal internship was different. "We are guided in each task they give us with feedback. Not just that, but they motivate us in every step of our work. It pushes our creative juices to create amazing pub mats and videos," he added.
While some are still adjusting to a new remote setup, many companies from different countries also opened their doors for students who strive to pursue internships outside the country.
Jerico Fermin is one of the Communication students who got accepted at the VCU Camp ADventure that offers a free advertising internship and creative competition hosted by the VCU Robertson School of Media and Culture, based in the United States of America. Of course, with different time zones and new virtual environments, Fermin pushed himself to get out of his comfort zone that paid off, and with experience— which will surely be helpful in his future careers.
"I worked really hard because I know that I was there for a reason: to learn, be great, and be empowered. So, at the end of the program, my team and I were able to be part of the top 5, and that's what I am really grateful for; when you don't have a lot of things in life, that gives you more reason to fight," he said.
In the end, an internship is a way in which you're near the finish line and polish your professionalism. Shaping you into more real-life experiences as you go on your way while also developing your growth. Till then, PADAYON, KLASMEYTS!
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