Internship: commonly defined as running around, grabbing coffee, setting up meetings, and copying a lot of papers, right? Not here at Levis Strauss & Co. From my first day as an intern on the Corporate Affairs team, I was given hard deadlines and meetings to attend. To say that my ten weeks spent at LS&Co. was a great experience would be an understatement. From amazing professional growth opportunities like presenting to the company’s most senior leaders, to fun events like 49ers family day and Giants games, my internship was full to say the least.
Going into my senior year of college, I knew that my decision on my summer internship was very important because next summer I would be entering the workforce. One thing I was certain of was that I wanted a full schedule to make the most out of my ten weeks. The Corporate Affairs team respected how important this was to me and sent me off running. From day one, I was in meetings with our team and departments throughout the company. This experience gave me increased visibility across functions at LS&Co., as well as a better understanding of the workplace culture.
Now that my time here at LS&Co. is coming to an end, I’m starting to reflect on my ten weeks spent at 1155 Battery Street. I have to admit that at times it was difficult to make deadlines because my schedule was so full. However, I never once felt like I didn’t have a support system behind me. From my first day until my last I was continuously encouraged along the way.
There are two particular experiences that have been very impactful and will stay with me long after the end of the internship:
The first was when the interns learned the importance of giving back at the AIDS Memorial Grove in SF. This experience was instrumental in understanding the LS&Co.culture. Instead of just hearing about how much community is integral to the workplace, we were able to be a part of it.
I also had the opportunity to present to the company’s world leadership team … twice! The experience, though nerve-wracking, not only boosted my confidence, but also better equipped me for the real world. Now I feel confident enough to speak in any setting – even in front of accomplished, well-spoken leaders. In hindsight, half the battle was believing I could do it, and then succeeding!
Isn’t that what internships are about? Pushing yourself, learning, and realizing just how capable you are. I am forever grateful to my team, fellow interns, and the community at LS&Co. for everything they have taught me. Stereotypes aside, a great internship teaches much more than learning how to make copies – mine pushed me to always put my best self forward.
