This summer, I was the communications intern for Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA), and it was one of the most rewarding experiences of my career. Some of my key assignments included event planning, internal communications, media relations, diversity and inclusion, social media listening and graphic design. Throughout my projects, my mentors gave me numerous opportunities to challenge myself, work cross-functionally and grow.

The primary reason working at FCA was so rewarding was because it had been a goal of mine for most of my college career. The first time I applied for FCA’s annual competitive summer internship program was during my sophomore year in 2018. While I was not a successful candidate, I took professional advice and recommendations from the hiring manager to better position myself for the following summer. In the year between the first time I applied and actually getting the internship, I worked to acquire a wide range of new skills and experiences to be one of the best candidates for FCA’s 2020 summer communications internship.

While I learned some great lessons about perseverance and determination by being rejected for the 2019 internship, I picked up on even more valuable skills and practices while being employed at FCA. I believe the two most important lessons I learned are about knowing I belonged as a member of the team and that my passions can be beneficial in a work setting.

Leave Imposter Syndrome at the Door

Many of us may be familiar with imposter syndrome, the idea that success is due to luck and not talent or qualifications. This mindset is something I’ve struggled with for a while, but this summer, I actively combatted it by offering honest feedback at every appropriate opportunity. By leaving the negativity behind, I was able to thrive, stay engaged and leave a lasting impression on my team.

I was able to propose new employee engagement ideas, offer thoughtful feedback to leadership, take on additional projects and, most importantly, ask questions. These opportunities helped me grow as a young professional and helped the team with future projects. Because of their inclusivity and my engagement with the team, I now know how I best contribute to collaborative projects. I also better understand myself and my interests as a young professional. 

Overcoming a negative mindset wasn’t easy or passive; I actively changed how I perceived myself at work. Instead of harboring thoughts that question my qualifications, talent or knowledge, I turned that energy into positive affirmations – reminding myself that I wouldn’t have been chosen if I wasn’t qualified and capable.  

Embracing Passions at Work

My favorite lesson learned this summer is that it’s okay to blur the lines between personal passions and work. At FCA, I was able to offer insights on new ways to promote and engage in diversity and inclusion conversations internally. By remaining engaged, I was able to contribute my passions while helping the team stay productive. 

Working on projects I was passionate about left me excited to wake up and start making progress. It also positioned me to be involved in additional projects that included my interests. Bringing my passions into the workspace is one of the best things I think I’ve done this summer and potentially for my career. I now understand that a lot of professional value comes not only from traditional skillsets but also from experiences, interests and knowledge that isn’t necessarily taught in a university’s classroom.

Initially, it was uncomfortable for me to discuss my interest and understanding of the diversity and inclusion space. I had to adjust and learn that my perspective and feedback based on my experiences can be equally as valuable as someone else’s, particularly because we were all working towards the same goal. 

This summer, I was able to become a better professional. I am grateful for the FCA communications team for helping me sharpen my skills and better understand how I can fit into the local communications industry. They did an excellent job creating an enriching experience that let me feel confident and continue my career, knowing I can make valuable contributions to whatever teams I am a part of.