Munger & the Goofs: Reading Response 1

Well, I think it's best to split the two readings in this blog post.

Roger Munger: Technical Communication

First, I was overwhelmed when I saw the amount of pages and the compressed text. However, Munger's article was a decent read. I wish I would have read this article first before starting my internship because it offers a lot of helpful advice, not only for the expectations of the intern but what to expect from the coordinator and employer. This is my first time doing an internship and it's refreshing to hear over and over again just how important and beneficial having an internship is for one's future career (because working and not getting paid is not). The article seemed to emphasize that an internship can help an intern try out different career options, learn new skills, network, and gain experience outside of the classroom.

Included in this section, Munger mentions an important facet: "Even if a student's major does not require an internship, he or she should consider one or more internship experiences" (p.327). As a Creative writing major, it is not required for me to take an internship. However, I am glad that I found an opportunity to showcase my non creative writing skills. My internship deals with more of the professional writing: writing press releases, newsletters, speeches, etc. This gives me self-assurance that I am able to complete tasks in a professional writing world. In addition, the only thing I wish I would have done differently (after reading this article) is using more resources to locate an internship. I browsed GVSU's writing website to see what previous students have done and then researched organizations. Once I found one that I was interested in, I contacted the supervisor and sent in my resume and cover letter. Then, I contacted our writing department internship coordinator. This might be a little backwards. I am happy with my choice of internship, but if I would have researched harder and used all available resources, I could have found one directly linked to my major.

Kenny Miller: 10 Top Goofs Interns Make

This was a much more interesting and simple read in comparison to Munger. And I must admit, I was nervous beforehand to see how many mistakes I might have made just within the two weeks I have been at my internship. Come to find out, I am doing pretty well. I am actually happy that I didn't experience the "wooing stage." During my interview, I was given a blunt explanation of what would take place on the job. Everything and everyone was busy. My interview was interrupted continuously by phone calls and rushed because my supervisor had a meeting to attend. Immediately, I knew what type of environment I would be getting myself into.

It's always funny to read articles like this because it seems that this information should be commonsense for people in the workforce. However, people seem to easily forget the workplace etiquette. I will admit that I have worn flip flops while on site but that actually wasn't an issue. I sit at a desk and do not interact much with any clients; however, I do bring a pair of heels with me. I can't imagine becoming a victim of the other mistakes. I appreciate that I was given this opportunity to work with GRPS, and I am aware that this internship must be taken seriously. I ask questions when I need to and make sure I'm taking notes and using eye contact to show I'm being attentive. This article is very helpful because sometimes as employees or interns, we do need to be reminded of what not to do while at work. I am just lucky I don't have to make coffee and or doughnut runs, so there's no grunt work for me yet.