When I first began working at Peperami I never envisioned myself remaining there till the end of August. Yet, after extending my contract twice and not knowing exactly when I was gonna stop working, I learned a lot and realized what I enjoyed most about working there. For my first ever experience working in an office setting I was incredibly thankful that I was able to even be present in person. Although, covid still remained a present issue I still got the experience of working with many different people from different backgrounds. My favorite part of the day was when I got to sit at lunch and talk to my colleagues. Whilst most were several years older than me we bonded over the love of TV shows, sports or general gossip. I never for a moment felt like an outsider. This motivated me to work harder and grow my network of individuals with many years of professional experience and knowledge that often proved very useful to me. There was always someone to answer any of my queries or questions, no matter how trivial or stupid they might have been. I always felt supported by the people around me.
As I went into the office I followed the same routine, grabbed a coffee then walked all the way to the end of the floor, saying hi to colleagues on the way to the marketing department. My corner of the office where I resided for the better parts of the last seven months. Where most of my queries were answered and where most of my office banter took place. I really enjoyed being there because I sat right by the storage room where I often grabbed a free sample or two of Jack Links jerky or a Peperami sausage. On the slow days I would walk around reorganizing the samples placed around the office or go into the storage room to have a gander at the products on show.
This brings me to my last day as the Peperami intern. Having extended my internship twice I was kinda looking forward to my last day. That morning seemed like any other. However, as I showed up at 9, grabbed my coffee and began walking to the marketing corner, I noticed the office was rather empty. When I got to my seat it became apparent I was the only person from the marketing team in the office that day. Although Fridays are often more quiet than other days this was a first for me. I was surprised no one from my team had been there to give me a send off but I honestly didn’t mind it. The quiet end seemed fitting to my time at Jack Links. It was never about gaining attention from anyone, it was always about doing my job listening to instructions and enjoying my work. I never needed a send off and frankly the quiet end to my first job experience was just what was needed.