While searching for internships as a Communication Science student, I mostly focused on the more obvious positions, ones like a marketing or content writing internship. They seemed like the straightforward choice as after all I was studying communication and that is what I would be best at. However, one day I came across a position at a company called TNW, and it was for a startup scout. I had no intention of applying since honestly I didn’t really know what that meant, but clicked anyway as I was curious. When I read the description I still didn’t exactly understand the essence of the role but was definitely sold on applying.
The page described that as an Startup Scout intern you would have to search the web and different databases to find the best and most suitable startups for a specific challenge. However, more importantly, it was written out how you’d have the opportunity to have one-on-one calls with their CEOs and help to connect them to various stakeholders. This sounded like a ‘too good to be true’ scenario for just an intern.
Anyways, I applied without thinking much of it. To my surprise, they reached back to me and after an interview and a scouting assignment I was told I have made it on the team. This was exciting yet kind of scary as I acted confident during the interviews but in reality really had no idea about innovation, startups, or that field in general.
During the course of the internship, my expectations were exceeded above and beyond. As a first-time intern I not only got the opportunity to talk to some of the most innovative and passionate startups across Europe, but even had calls with major international corporations such as Vodafone and Cargill. Also, spoke to many insightful investors and venture capitalists who shared valuable first-hand information on investing and entrepreneurship that you will not find in some books teaching you investments.
Therefore, the lesson from this short story is not to be afraid to step out of the normal and more comfortable path. This internship was most definitely not a typical communication science choice, however, it has taught me so much more about communication that I could have imagined. If you see a position that really sparks your interest but you’re unsure of applying as you think you are not qualified enough – just do it! Employers seek people (in case it’s an internship position) who are super motivated and ready to learn, they do not expect you to know everything. With this in mind, the process of searching and applying for internships will be much easier and enjoyable – trust me!
Ultimately, take that little adventure even if it sounds like something completely out of your zone!