by My life as an Rank Foundation Time 2 Shine intern has been a vital point of my life and while it came to an end in December 2019, it’s an experience I won’t forget. I’ve said it before but I would recommend an internship like mine to anyone. If I had the chance I would do it again in a heartbeat. Why is that you ask? Find out for yourself below.
The Experience
To me the experience was lifechanging. It has been one of the most rewarding experiences I have had in many ways. Its given me a network of like-minded inspirational people who I can always get in touch with, learn from and use as inpiration for the rest of my life.
More importantly it was fun. I had a blast traveling around the UK, visiting some of the most beautiful locations I would otherwise not get to see. I also got to meet some incredible people who show the power and the future of the third sector. These people (you know who you are) filled this year with memories, laughter and support and helped show me that I was on the right path. I don’t think I would have completed the year without them.
What I have Learned?
The most important thing I have learned is that of my niche. I am a social media marketer and strategist. Something I don’t think I would have figured out for a long time if I wasn’t part of the programme. It taught me where I could be of value and how I could showcase it. In short, I’ve been given time to florish.
The experience also taught me how to be a better leader, team member and all round worker. I can adjust my communications approach to multiple situations alongside being better at mindfulness and understanding techniques that work best for me. Which I didn’t realise would be so important to me until the power that is Jennifer MacKay stepped in. You can learn about her power here: The Power of Jennifer MacKay
My Next Steps
With the experience being so important to me I felt it only right that my next steps would be to give back to the Rank Foundation. In January 2020 I applied to be a mentor for the next group of Time 2 Shiners as they undertake their journey.
I’m also applying all that they have taught me in my business and part-time work. Showcasing my value to help others learn theres and building helping businesses to unleash their potential. For me that is the only way you can say thank you to an important part of your life.
If you want to learn more about what it means to be an intern. You can read the first in this series here.
Emma Smith-Hunter 
Leave a Reply