I think one thing people don’t realize about PATTERN is how passionate the behind-the-scenes work is. When I first applied to be an intern, I was not sure what I expected. I knew I had been eyeing the application for over a year, never feeling confident enough to apply. I had stalked the @patternintern Instagram account an embarrassing amount to prepare myself for the ‘what ifs’ of if I was accepted, but that was pretty much it. Lo and behold, I was accepted!
From the moment I walked through those dragon doors, I felt nothing but inspiration and creativity. THIS is what I had been craving. Being surrounded by like-minded people who aren’t embarrassed by their interests, passions, quirky ideas, or creativity has been a breath of fresh air. PATTERN pushed me to think outside of the box. This internship has been everything I could dream of and more.
I walked into this semester as a social media intern. Social media has always been my passion. From a young age, I was the kid who made music videos to my favorite songs for fun and uploaded them to YouTube. Naturally, the only thing I could imagine myself doing for the rest of my life is social media (brb, healing my inner child). I’ve had three social media internships/roles before PATTERN, but none will ever compare to my time here.
The environment of the office is unlike any other. Everyone here understands the hustle and how amazing the end goal will be. I have never been one to be that knowledgeable about my city, let alone the creatives who roam the same streets as me. But that is what drew me to PATTERN—I wanted to learn more. PATTERN opened a door for me and allowed me to see Indy from a new perspective. For that alone, I will forever be grateful.
PATTERN allowed me to explore my creativity and push my limits. I was able to do more than just social media, which is something I have never experienced before. One thing about the staff and fellows is they want nothing but to see you succeed. I have learned so much from these individuals on what it means to be proud of your work and accomplishments.
I was able to dabble in my fellow interns’ typical day in the life. Emily & Olivia allowed me to style assist on both of their editorials and it was so much fun! I have never done anything like that before and it was definitely out of my comfort zone, but I fell in love with piecing together unique outfits to set a story. I was able to work with the creative fellows, Cory & Katie, and have four interviews with various individuals around the city. I have never been the best at writing, let alone doing a full interview with someone. However, something about it was so enjoyable and I loved being able to sit down and chat with some really cool people!
But I think what takes the cake for my experience as an intern was the Vol. 22 launch party. My fellow interns and I were entrusted with responsibilities that felt very spooky to hand off to an intern. But feeling trusted with something was so empowering. I loved being able to assist in any marketing for the event that I could get my hands on.
I am very emo to leave PATTERN. I am trying not to think about it.
But as I enter the last week of this internship, I cannot avoid it any longer. I am grateful to have PATTERN and the individuals who came into my life throughout this semester. They have taught me to never settle and have fun at work. Surround yourself with like-minded individuals and be passionate. I am happy PATTERN and the individuals who make the organization what is it today were able to place themselves into my life. These people will always hold a special place in my heart and I have loved sharing this experience with them.
Xoxo,
Erin
