Chantal Valadez supported daily operations by coordinating schedules, negotiating, tracking shipments, and being the main line of communications for drivers and logistics companies.
Why did you choose this specific internship?
I chose my internship because I believed it would contribute to a well-rounded work history. The role allowed me to demonstrate adaptability across different responsibilities and environments. I gained experience applying my skills in a fast-paced, real-world setting. This opportunity strengthened my ability to adapt quickly and solve problems effectively. Overall, the internship reinforced skills that are transferable to almost any industry and role.
What kind of work did you do?
The work consisted of both administrative and operational responsibilities. I reviewed and managed documents to ensure accuracy and organization. I also served as the direct point of contact for truck drivers. This included handling road closures, negotiating solutions to unexpected issues, and coordinating deliveries. The role required strong communication, problem-solving, and time-management skills.
What is something that is unique about your internship selection process?
Something unique about my choice of internship is that the company I had begun the internship with was experiencing challenges with their entire operations field, which was impacting their revenue. After stepping into the office and taking a couple of days to get a handle on things, the company as a whole began to see revenue increases and partnerships develop. Going into this internship, I wasn't sure how I would perform because the trucking industry as a whole seemed intense, and I would need to have thick skin. After trial and error, I learned to adapt to people's communication styles and became successful in my role.
What skills did you develop during your experience?
Through this internship, I developed strong negotiation skills, which was significant since I lacked professional experience in this area prior to this. I learned to manage my time effectively while coordinating multiple schedules and tasks. This role requires quick problem-solving in fast-paced situations. I also strengthened my ability to make decisions under pressure. These skills were applied with consideration for the company's overall success.
What was something you found challenging about the role?
What I found most challenging about the internship was scheduling out my coursework along with working two other jobs. Luckily, the number of hours and the schedule aligned perfectly, so nothing would overlap. Finding the time to do homework on top of what was really three jobs was exhausting. But in the end, I proved to myself in all workspaces and was able to handle the circus!
How did your Applied Humanities degree relate to or prepare you for this role?
This internship had a strong correlation to my applied humanities degree because it centered on human-focused communication and ethical reasoning. The role required constant interaction and collaboration with people. I worked directly with individuals across the country on a daily basis. Because the work required situational judgment, empathy, and effective communication, it could not be fully automated by computers (thankfully!). The hands-on, communication-driven environment strengthened the practical application of my humanities education.
What was your favorite part of your internship experience?
My favorite part of this internship was seeing the direct impact my work had on the company. It was rewarding to see drivers feel excited and reassured when they knew they had steady work lined up. Serving as their main source of communication allowed me to build trust and provide clarity to our team and partners. I enjoyed being able to answer questions and support them throughout the process. The emotional fulfillment of helping others succeed made the experience meaningful.