Royal offers a diverse array of internship opportunities across various fields. A credit union might not seem like a typical place to build public relations skills, but that's exactly what I’ve been doing. As a current Community Relations intern, I have gained experience in event planning, social media, and writing press releases. Along the way, I have learned strategies that have made me feel more confident, connected, and proficient in my role. Whether you're just beginning your internship exploration or looking to make the most of your current role, these tips may help you.
Tip #1: Be Proactive
One of the most valuable lessons I've learned as an intern is the importance of taking initiative. It's easy to wait for instructions, but growth happens when you step up and seek opportunities to contribute. If you're ever unsure what to do, don't hesitate to ask questions.
Being proactive also means going beyond your assigned tasks. For example,I’ve volunteered to help at events in different regions, which not only expanded my experience but also helped me connect with more people. I’ve also asked for feedback on my social media posts, press releases, and blogs. This has helped me learn to take in new ideas and grow by learning from others. Taking initiative builds trust, shows your commitment, and creates a lasting impact.
Tip #2: Build Relationships
Internships aren't just about gaining skills; they're also about building connections. Networking and forming relationships with coworkers can help you better understand your team, discover new opportunities, and feel more supported in your job.
One way I've built relationships is through team outings and Zoom calls with different team members, which have helped me learn more about what each person's duty is and how we all contribute to the bigger picture. These moments of connection make it easier to collaborate and feel part of the team.
We also do weekly coffee chats where we answer a fun question together. It's a simple but effective way to get to know each other beyond our job titles. These conversations have helped me feel more comfortable reaching out and asking questions.
Learning from mentors has been another highlight. I've had the chance to shadow and meet with people across different departments to learn more about their roles. These experiences have given me a broader view of the organization and helped me think about my own career path after college.
Tip #3: Reflect and Grow
Celebrating your progress is one of the most powerful ways to grow during an internship. It's easy to get caught up in the day-to-day tasks, but taking time to reflect helps you recognize how far you’ve come. Looking back at my first week compared to now, I'm amazed at how much I've learned from writing press releases and social posts to planning my own Kid's Club event and connecting with the team building long lasting relationships.
Throughout this internship, I've enhanced my graphic design skills, gained hands-on experience in event planning, and developed a deeper understanding of the behind-the-scenes work that makes events successful. I've also learned how to write press releases that effectively represent Royal and reflect our core values. For more information, check out rcu.org/internships
