Greta Miller gained experience at two internship sites, her family-owned bakery and tavern, and gained skills in multitasking, problem-solving, and event planning.
What kind of work did you do throughout your internship experience?
For my internships, I worked at our family-owned bakery, Gluten-Free Gem, and coffee shop and assisted with events at a local tavern. I provided customer service in-person and online, managed inventory, did food and beverage prep, and learned more about the logistics of deliveries to our partners. In my internship at the Skyline Tavern, I also operated events, created promotional materials, and sold merchandise.
What skills did you develop in this internship?
One transferable skill I gained in both of my internships was providing customer service in busy, fast-paced settings. This position required me to multi-task and switch quickly between tasks. Being able to think on my feet and come up with solutions has always been difficult for me because I get easily overwhelmed, but I have found that I have become better at compartmentalizing tasks at work and feeling more confident in taking on more responsibility in the shop. I also learned the importance of staying busy and taking the initiative to do tasks because there is always something to help out with. I also got trained to learn how to open and close the bakery and feel confident in the new skills I gained.
What did you find most challenging about your internship?
The most challenging part is just those unpredictable moments in customer service that you can’t really train for. There were a few shifts that were very hectic and sometimes where I was on my own. One time someone actually stole the tip jar right in front of me! From incidents like these we have to collaborate as a team to minimize those types of incidents in the future. I think this has helped me with my problem-solving skills as well as thinking quickly on my feet in a fast-paced environment.
What was the most significant contribution you made?
One of the bigger projects I worked on was setting up the Halloween party for both of my internships. It was actually a joint party where the bakery employees came to the Skyline Tavern for an employee party. I think it went really well and I got a lot of help from both my site supervisors. It also led to me getting another catering opportunity for someone else.
How has your internship experience influenced your plans for your future?
I know that I want to continue to work with people in the future. I am now more interested in speaking French as well as exploring opportunities in the food and beverage industry.
What advice do you have for other students as they search for their internship?
Explore different ideas and dreams, but if you aren’t finding anything don’t be afraid to look in your close circle. Most people I know got their internship through someone they knew and not a cold call or interview so try talking to friends or family if you feel stuck!