Intern Spotlight: Michelle Schwarz

The Virtual Life : Article

Introducing our Global Events Intern, Michelle Schwarz who is attending George Mason University pursuing a psychology degree and anticipates graduating in December of 2023. Michelle shares some great insights into her internship experience with Virtual Inc.

Hometown: Vienna, VA

Q: Please share a highlight from your internship this semester.

Michelle: The first big experience for me during this internship was bittersweet. Someone from the Events team had recently taken on a new role, and I was responsible for one of their client’s upcoming events that was to take place in Africa, in two weeks. I had only been an intern with Virtual for a month and still getting comfortable. I was learning a lot and realized I was capable of more than I gave myself credit for. With the help and patience of the wonderful Emily Charles (Global Events Manager), we were able to deliver a wonderfully successful event for the client. I am now permanently supporting this client, and I also received a Virtual Victory out of it, so definitely a highlight!

Q: What advice would you give future interns?

Michelle: My advice for future interns would be that at times it can seem overwhelming – and that is ok! The trick to succeeding is leaning on others that you know want to help with whatever it may be. You are learning and it is an opportunity to grow. It is also okay to make mistakes, stand up for yourself, ask for help, and ask lots of questions.

I want to give a big shout out to Jordan Schille, Emily Charles, Britt Carey, and Alissa Bredbenner (Global Event team members) for being those primary support people for me. They were always there to genuinely listen and talk me through whatever I needed help with.

This internship also confirmed my belief that I am a fast learner, since you never know what your next project could be or what will be asked of you in this role.

Q: What did you learn about yourself?

Michelle: I have learned a lot about how I work best and what tools I need to achieve results. The Predictive Index (PI) was huge for me when I first started the internship because it really does describe your work persona. It is important to lean into it for a more successful and satisfactory work experience.

I also learned that I am resilient and can handle so many of the projects that come my way, even when I did not think I was capable. This internship also confirmed my belief that I am a fast learner, since you never know what your next project could be or what will be asked of you in this role.

 

Learn more about available internship at Virtual Inc.

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