Something no one prepares college students for after leaving high school is that the interview and application processes continue after your college decision. My perception of the early career process was misguided by the facade that all I needed to be successful was a degree from a university with name recognition. Although I watched my friends studying finance hibernate during their months of recruitment, I assumed the industries I pursued were exempt from this torture. 

Famous last words. My estimate for internship applications submitted last year is from 50 to 200. Past the 50-mark, everything blurs together. I applied to internships at companies related to media, journalism, entertainment, communications, PR, legal, marketing… You name it, and I applied for it.

Plus, where I really pulled my weight in numbers were the companies with the same positions in multiple locations, all requiring unique applications. After all of that, I think I made it to a first-round interview for three… and a second or third-round interview for two. So, rest assured, if you relate to these past woes of casting too wide of a net without clear direction, there is still a light at the end of the tunnel. 

In comes Mt. Lebanon Magazine. I could list a million reasons why my time interning with Mt. Lebanon Magazine last summer was uniquely beneficial to my career development, but I’ll give my short list:

1. Exposure. This position is uniquely distinct from a typical magazine internship, including other ones that you would find in Pittsburgh. As a public information office intern, I was responsible for more than just writing. The access to local government operations is both fascinating and practical. Being witness to such a small yet mighty machine like Mt. Lebanon’s various departments is transferable to any career path. From government to business, I learned email etiquette, time management, the art of small talk, appropriate attire and not to wear my standing jeans to the office on a sitting day..
2. Creativity. Your mentors will take the time to learn about your background and hobbies, catering writing or tertiary assignments to your skill set and interests. But, if that freedom is something that scares you, you may also ask for direction and brainstorming. It truly was an environment unlike any other in terms of creative freedom and exploration. And you’ll get to try new things: like being a guest on a podcast for the first time! Check out my podcast with fellow intern, Adrienne Cahillane, to hear my Spotify debut. 
3. Flexibility. Furthermore, not only was I gifted with the choice of schedule — day and time — but, I was able to work a job on the side. I enjoyed the finale of my lifeguarding career.
4. Culture. If you’ve read my November blog, “The Cost of a Career” (shameless self-promotion), you will know how much I value workplace culture. Mt. Lebanon Municipality is nothing short of strong leadership, which undoubtedly comes from the ground up. My summer with them left me feeling even prouder of the town I was raised in, and confident that Mt. Lebanon will continue to be a community that prospers. 
5. Home. Mt. Lebanon is my hometown and it was so nice (and free) to live at here with my family for another summer. Although I visited once or twice, my buddies who interned in NYC and Chicago had to pay rent and cook for themselves, all on top of their first 9-to-5 without the familial comfort of home. We all mature on different timelines, but I absolutely needed one more summer of spending time with my siblings, parents, dogs and home friends. 

Truthfully, if you like to write, envision a career in any sect of government, are skilled with social media, or just want to become a stronger communicator, why not throw your name in the ring for this position? You have nothing to lose, and so so SO much to earn. Applications can be found at mtlebanon.bamboohr.com/careers/245.