Timeline of Improvement
Conversational Skills
Able to talk about anything
Accurately reading individual moods &
body language
Nervous at first
going door-to-door
Not confident about
skills or approach
Before the internship, I felt my communication skills were one of my strongest attributes. Even though my communication skills were strong, I built on that skill tremendously, and become adaptive in all situations. I reflect on my words on a deeper level, easily interpret the body language of others, and focus on the pace at which I speak. This was created by versatility, commitment to building on a skill I already excel in, and observation. At first I was very timid when approaching a stranger’s door, but I care so passionately about the issues that the fear subsided. Once I learned the skills necessary for canvassing, I truly flourished throughout my internship experience.
Team Work
Developed an ongoing positive attitude
that reinforces teamwork in the office
Focused on quickly including others
Not experienced in group projects
besides activities in class
Moderately shy when
approaching new teammates
During the internship, I am truly proud of my involvement and progression in group tasks. Prior to this experience, I have worked in groups to accomplish a goal, but not in the same way. The way that my internship experience has differed is since I am always working with a partner to organize where we are both going, relying on them for advice on what is and is not working throughout the night, and having support or giving support through difficult times. There were not many moments throughout my internship when I was not interacting with others which drastically improved my ability to work effectively in teams.
Fundraising
New perspective
"you don't get what you don't ask for"
Overcoming objections
& building confidence
Uncomfortable asking
for money at the door
Lacked confidence
As anyone could imagine, learning to ask people for money at the door is certainly a skill that takes time to develop. At first, asking for money was hard because I felt very awkward, and was not well equipped to respond back to objections. However, as time went on I learned many valuable skills that helped me improve in this area such as targeting for specific amounts with confidence, gauging enthusiasm of the individual, asking again even when someone has explained they will not donate, and confidently explaining the issues by being well versed and educated on environmental injustices and current events. Without developing these skills, I would have not been successful throughout my internship, and I am proud of my ability to learn quickly and staying structured with what I am explaining.
Taking Initiative
Started introducing myself to everyone and made many new friends
Made any attempt to learn new tasks and get involved
Hesitant on
taking the lead
Did not introduce myself right away
to new staff members
At first I was very shy when it came to introducing myself to new co-workers in the office. It took me time to get involved in office conversation and staff nights, however, throughout my time at Clean Water Action I have met many amazing people, many of whom I will remain friends with for a long time. Taking the lead on learning new tasks was a slight challenge for me at the beginning, but that also changed quickly. I started taking the lead on money operations at the end of the night, recording data from other co-workers on political action statements, and driving the company vehicle whenever it was asked of me which also involved setting each person up for their day. I started out being a quiet intern that kept to herself, to a canvasser that took positions of leadership when it was necessary. My positive attitude, and upbeat personality also increased as time went on which many of my co-workers explained as being infectious. Thanks to this experience, I feel more confident in my ability to talk to others, and take the lead.