Learning What Can’t Be Taught: How Culture Impacts Intern Experience

As a student studying journalism and media, getting the opportunity to intern at an architecture and engineering firm was daunting at first. It is a field vastly different from my own, and something I knew little about. However, after spending almost three months at Goodwyn Mills Cawood (GMC), I can confidently say it has been the best decision for my personal and professional development.

From the very beginning of my internship, GMC welcomed me with open arms and treated me like a valued member of the team. Being trusted with important tasks made a huge difference in allowing me to learn hands-on, make mistakes and gain valuable experience that I will undoubtedly use in the future.

Early on, I was able to attend a beam placement ceremony at Middle Tennessee State University for a project that GMC designed. That was the first time I got to see GMC in action, see the relationships we have with other companies and see how the work we have done comes to life. I quickly observed that GMC’s value comes from more than just the services we provide, but also the relationships with clients, partners and other companies that we uphold.

A common thread between all GMC employees is that we care deeply about the work we do, and how it impacts the community. In a communications role, I have the opportunity to tell the story of the projects we are part of. Whether that be in the beginning stages or the ribbon cutting, getting to share how we make a difference in communities across the Southeast has been a fulfilling role.

Coming to GMC with a communications background gave me the space to learn about completely different fields than my own. It has been a fascinating experience to work alongside people whose day-to-day tasks are vastly different than mine. I was able to see how each office, department and team works together to contribute to GMC’s mission.

While there have been many positives to working at GMC, the community and culture has stuck out to me the most.

Thanks to my supervisor, team members and other employees, it was easy to integrate into the Nashville office and feel connected. I’ve had the privilege of enjoying work I do inside the office, while also getting to enjoy GMC events outside of the office. I was able to participate in the Birmingham Corporate Challenge, Music City Corporate Challenge, Urban Runoff 5k and Water Quality Festival and our kayaking summer event at Tip-A-Canoe. These events helped me form stronger relationships with the people at GMC on a more personal level. After meeting employees from other offices and seeing their enthusiasm and encouragement, it was clear to me that GMC’s culture carries through every location.

It has been a refreshing experience to work alongside people who are honest, humble, supportive, kind and intelligent. Each day I am inspired by the people I work with, and I am continuously learning from them. As I reflect on my time as an intern, I think back to the person I was before I started at GMC. I was nervous and unsure of myself and my abilities. However, this internship has exceeded my expectations. Working for GMC has taught me valuable lessons and given me a new confidence as I go into my final semester of college and continue my professional career.

Audrey Boyd
Intern, Communications
University of Tennessee – Knoxville