When my director asked if I wanted to take over my manager’s duties for a press trip to our newly opened hotel in Glasgow, I laughed so hard I started hyperventilating. I had to go for a walk just to process the request. Little did I know that this unexpected journey would become one of the most unforgettable experiences of my internship.
The Unplanned Journey
The chaos began at 7 am on the day of the flight. I woke up in a panic, realizing I had less than an hour to catch my flight to Glasgow. The adrenaline rush was my only saving grace as I sprinted through Schiphol Airport, barely making it to my gate. Once I was on the plane, I thought the worst was over. Oh, how wrong I was!
Babysitting Journalists and Cursed Luggage
Upon landing, I quickly realized that the press trip was going to be a bit like babysitting toddlers—except these toddlers were seasoned journalists in their 40s. One journalist’s luggage got lost, adding to the list of problems that seemed to follow us like a shadow. Despite all the hiccups, from missing journalists to logistical nightmares, I kept my cool. I had to. It was only my second time in the UK and my first time in Scotland, and I was determined to prove myself.
Unexpected Learning and Highland Magic
Amidst the chaos, we managed to depart on an incredible trip to the Highlands (which was one of the main reasons I said yes to this whole thing in the first place). The breathtaking scenery provided a much-needed respite and reminded me life always works in my favour, no matter how it looks at any point. I learned more about the company, built strong networks, and most importantly, discovered a lot about myself. Despite the constant stress, I never let it show. The journalists appreciated my composure, and we even received amazing feedback.
Meaningful Connections and Birthday Surprises
What made this trip even more special were the meaningful connections I made. I stayed in touch with two of the three journalists. One, based in Amsterdam, even invited me to her yoga class. The other, from Madrid, is helping me find accommodation for my upcoming exchange. They never treated me differently because I was younger or an intern, and our conversations were truly enriching.
The icing on the cake, literally, was when the on-site team surprised me with a birthday cake on the day I was flying back. I was alone, away from home, but they made me feel incredibly special.
Final Thoughts: Embrace the Unexpected
This trip taught me that the best experiences often come from the most unexpected challenges. Stepping out of your comfort zone can be daunting, but it’s the only way to grow. If I had turned down this opportunity, I would have missed out on so much learning, fun, and personal growth. So, to all future interns: say yes to the unexpected, embrace the chaos, and watch yourself flourish.
In conclusion, hard work does pay off, even if it comes wrapped in the unpredictability of Highland adventures and Glasgow’s charming quirks.