Internships are transformative journeys that shape our professional paths. We, Jessica and Betty, want to share our experiences at Programmed, highlighting our unique journeys, key learnings, and the supportive environment that made it all possible.
Jessica
Three months ago, I embarked on my journey as a marketing intern at Programmed. Stepping into the role, I felt both excitement and nerves. This opportunity marked my first professional experience in Australia, and working for a reputable company like Programmed was truly significant.
Why this internship mattered
This internship provided me with invaluable hands-on experience in digital marketing, which aligns with my career aspirations. It wasn’t just about learning technical skills; it helped me assess whether this career path was truly the right fit for me.
Key Responsibilities
With the support of my supervisor, Amer, and the amazing Marketing team, I worked on various tasks:
- Graphic design and video production in Canva
- Copywriting for marketing content
- Data analysis to evaluate our performance on social media platforms
Initially, I was hesitant to voice my ideas due to language barriers, but my team’s encouragement helped me build confidence and adapt to the fast-paced environment.
Lessons learned
Throughout my internship, I learned the importance of:
- Communication and confidence
- The power of asking questions
- Being proactive in seeking opportunities
- Time management and organisation
- Gaining clarity about my career direction
Betty
I, too, had an incredible experience as part of the Digital Marketing team at Programmed. This internship allowed me to explore my passion for marketing while equipping me with practical skills.
How I landed the internship
As a University of Melbourne student, I joined the Business and Economics Internship program. I was drawn to Programmed’s focus on digital innovation, and after applying and interviewing, I was thrilled to join the team!
My internship journey
Entering a cross-cultural environment, I felt a mix of excitement and nerves. Fortunately, my team welcomed me with open arms, and I quickly integrated into our weekly meetings. My responsibilities included:
- Creative ad design using Canva
- Analysing Facebook ad campaign performance
- Writing ad copy
Proactively seeking help from colleagues exposed me to different aspects of digital marketing, enhancing my learning experience.
Key takeaways
During my internship, I gained valuable insights into:
- Practical marketing skills, including ad design and data analysis
- The significance of communication and asking questions
- The power of feedback in refining my work
Shared reflections
The best part
For both of us, the best part of the internship was the team. The inclusive and collaborative culture made it easy to feel like part of the family, especially as international students. The support and encouragement from colleagues helped us both grow professionally and personally.
The biggest challenge
Adapting to the fast-paced nature of digital marketing was challenging for both of us. Balancing multiple tasks and meeting deadlines required careful time management and prioritisation. However, this challenge pushed us to grow and become more efficient.
Would we recommend an internship? Absolutely!
This internship has shaped our skills, confidence, and career direction. For any students considering an internship, we urge you to take the leap! Step out of the classroom, challenge yourself, and gain real-world insights that will stay with you far beyond the internship itself.
We are deeply grateful to our team at Programmed for their guidance and support. Here’s to the next chapter in our careers!
