Introduction

Internships are often the first taste of the real-world workplace that a student or early professional gets. They’re meant to give us a glimpse of what it feels like to be part of a company, contribute meaningfully to something bigger, and gain hands-on experience beyond the classroom.

When I joined CI360 Degrees as a design intern, I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect. This being my first official internship, I was a little nervous about how I would fit in, what kind of projects I’d get to work on, and whether I’d truly learn something valuable. But what followed was a journey that not only met my expectations- it exceeded them in every way.

Getting Started

From the very beginning, the onboarding experience at CI360 Degrees stood out to me. The process was well-structured, welcoming, and clear. The team made sure I felt like I was part of something important right from day one. There were intro sessions for all the employees, thoughtful documentation, and most importantly, people who were genuinely excited to have me on board. Whether it was remote or in-office, the support was always there.

I quickly found myself immersed in the company culture- collaborative, friendly, and professional. There’s something energizing about being surrounded by people who are passionate about what they do and are more than happy to help you grow along the way.

One of the best parts of this internship was the variety and depth of projects I got to work on. I wasn’t stuck doing routine intern tasks. Instead, I was given the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to real-time projects.

For example, one of my first assignments was to refurbish the company’s Instagram handle, where I was involved in making relevant content, mainly posts. It challenged me to think critically, manage time effectively, and apply my academic knowledge in a real-world setting.

Later, I worked on environmental office graphics, which gave me hands-on experience with tools and platforms I hadn’t used before. This not only expanded my technical toolkit but also improved my ability to learn on the fly and adapt to new challenges.

In addition to my individual tasks, I often participated in team meetings, brainstorming sessions, and collaborative planning discussions. These interactions helped me see the bigger picture- how different functions of the company come together to achieve shared goals.

Learning and Growth

CI360 Degrees fosters an environment where learning is a continuous journey. I was encouraged to be curious, to ask questions, and to not be afraid of making mistakes- as long as I learned from them. This mindset helped me feel safe to experiment and step outside of my comfort zone.

I developed both technical and soft skills during my time here. I became proficient with [list any tools, platforms, or methods you used], and learned to communicate better during team check-ins and client interactions. More than that, I learned the importance of time management, documentation, and attention to detail- skills that are often underestimated but critical in any workplace.

One thing I really appreciated was the culture of constructive feedback. My mentors would often share thoughtful suggestions on how I could improve, but in a way that felt empowering rather than discouraging. That approach made a lasting impact on how I now view feedback in general.

CI360 Culture

If I had to describe the culture at CI360 degrees in one word, it would be people-first. EveryoneI interacted with, was approachable and respectful. The work environment was both professional and warm, which made it easier to contribute confidently and share ideas without hesitation.

The team organized occasional learning sessions, casual check-ins, and even celebrated small wins together. These little things made a big difference- they reminded me that even in a fast-paced environment, building human connections matters just as much as meeting deadlines.

Highlights and Memorable Moments

There were many standout moments during my internship, but here are a few that really left a mark:

• Being given real responsibilities that impacted live projects and business goals.
• Learning sessions that introduced me to new tools, trends, and best practices.
• One-on-one mentoring that helped me clarify my professional goals.
• Team celebrations and check-ins, which made me feel like part of a close-knit group.

Even the small things- like a team member dropping a message just to appreciate my work- meant a lot. They reminded me that I was seen, heard, and valued.

As I continue my internship journey at CI360 Degrees, I find myself learning something new every day. Whether it’s a technical skill, a better way to collaborate, or simply how to navigate the fast-paced world of professional work. So far, it has been a deeply enriching experience, and I’m excited about what the rest of my time here will bring.

There’s still so much to explore and contribute to, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to be part of a company that values growth, curiosity, and meaningful work. I look forward to making the most of the remaining weeks- gaining insights, building relationships, and leaving with experiences that will shape my future career.