The Value of Internships

Nick Corey was recently hired as a specialist in digital/strategy at (add)ventures in Providence. How did the graphic design and web development major do it in his first year after graduation? His experience and preparation at Roger Williams University was certainly key. So was the fact that he had a foot in the door already after interning at the company since the summer of his junior year. Recently, the Rhode Island native reflected on his experience at RWU and the value of internships:

What were some experiences here at RWU that helped prepare you for your current role?
The Web Development Center class with Professor of Web Development/Computer Information Systems Al Cutting was one experience. It taught me how to work with clients and form lasting professional relationships with them, which is essential to my current role. Another class that helped prepare me was Professor of Marketing Ben Carr's introduction to marketing class. It was hands down one of the best courses I took at RWU, because it laid some of the foundational marketing terms and strategies I still use today. In addition, Professor of Theatre Jeffrey Martin directed most of the theatrical shows I took part in at RWU. Being a part of those shows taught me a great deal about work ethic, collaboration and teamwork – skills that are essential to working on a multidisciplinary team like the one here at (add)ventures or at any company.

How did you first get involved at (add)ventures
I visited (add)ventures to learn more about the real day-to-day role of a graphic designer. I shadowed many employees that day (some of whom are my current coworkers) and, after such a positive experience, I decided to change my major to graphic design and web development. Previously, I had been undecided. At the end of junior year, I came on as an intern.

What was that like?
Along with my education at RWU, my internship built the foundation for my role now. It equipped me with the tools necessary to master digital content management. In the summer of my junior year, I worked mainly on print projects with the design team. I learned systems, processes and about (add)ventures' client partners. Later, in my senior year, that familiarity allowed me to advance past learning curves quickly.

What did you get out of the experience?
By interning at a multidisciplinary firm, I had the opportunity to work alongside both the design and digital teams to gain exposure and experience in both fields, and also identify and understand my strengths and interests. That was huge.

Because of that, I’d advise students to look for opportunities where they can practice a variety of skills and, if possible, work for multiple semesters to dive deep into an organization and to understand everything from their day-to-day operations to their culture.

Best of all, interning for multiple semesters in a variety of business environments helped me understand how and where I do my best work. To me, that’s priceless.

Anything else you want to add?
I can’t stress the value of internships enough. Not only do they help students gain experience and make connections, but they also allow future professionals to get acclimated to a new lifestyle and schedule.

Looking for an internship? RWU's Center for Career & Professional Development can help.