While studying abroad in London, I had the
opportunity to intern with a British fashion label, Cyclodelic. My
assignment was within the marketing and event planning department; however, my
tasks covered a broad range of activities involved in running a small business.
This was a very hands-on experience which gave me a chance to observe the
challenges of starting a new company, creating the actual products to be sold,
establishing a brand and promoting an event.
As an intern, my responsibilities were to update the company blog, Facebook and
Twitter and maintain email correspondence with customers, event coordinators
and the press. I attended the events Cyclodelic both participated in and
hosted. At one particular event, I was involved in direct-selling at a
trade show venue. I discussed the company history and mission with event
attendees and highlighted product features for potential customers.
Another one of my tasks was to deliver Cyclodelic products to magazines,
which would then be featured in upcoming articles and photo shoots. My
favorite part of this internship was working with Photoshop and Illustrator to
create promotional design projects. As an artistic individual, I enjoyed
the opportunity to be creative as well as become more familiar with these
graphic design programs. A fun part of my job was to assist in the assembly
of some of the products, despite having any obvious connection to marketing and
event planning. This was especially interesting because I have always
enjoyed fashion.
I am grateful to have interned for such a young, small company because I was
able to develop a close relationship with my boss and her single employee.
I learned to take criticism in a positive manner and used their feedback
to improve myself as an employee. I was inspired by both my employer and
colleague's abilities to take on such a heavy workload and still genuinely
enjoy the work they did. Through observation of the way they ran this
business, I noticed the importance of networking and its vital role in the
success of a business.
Interning at Cyclodelic has prepared me for my future career goals because I
have been exposed to the satisfaction and challenges involved in
entrepreneurship. An inspiring and educational experience, I have
deepened my knowledge of how to market a product and promote an event. My
communication skills have improved through working for a British employer and
conducting business on an international level. I have become flexible in
the sense that I have learned to adapt myself to new surroundings and
situations which arise out of the international employment environment. I
have gained the confidence and independence to be successful.
