Isabella Johnson

Major: Event Management
Company/Organization: The Rustic Rose Barn
Company/Organization website: https://www.rusticrosebarn.com/
Destination: Roland, Iowa
Timeframe: Summer 2023
Advisor/Coordinator Email: jbeyer@iastate.edu

Responsibilities

Throughout my internship, I was responsible for a variety of tasks. Including but not limited to setting up tables/chairs according to the client's desired layout, setting up tours and client meetings, valet parking and bar back during events, cleaning the venue, updating the inventory of alcohol and venue supplies, landscaping, and overall being available for any questions a client might have leading up to their event. I was also put in charge of organizing and planning a fundraiser event. This event is usually designated to the current intern at The Rustic Rose Barn. I am responsible for communicating with the client and setting up and decorating their desired vision.

Accomplishments

My greatest accomplishment was being able to take on new challenges each day and overcome adversity. I did that by taking on anything my boss asked of me even if I was unsure about it. Going into my internship, I went in with an open mind and a positive attitude. With everything I was assigned to or took over on my own, I did it with a purpose. I accomplished being readily available to whatever challenge I needed to in order to be efficient and a great asset to my company.

Learning experience

I learned to be comfortable getting out of my comfort zone. When working in the events industry, it deals a lot with working with multiple clients at once. I would sometimes have to take potential clients on tours and take over client meetings. Overall, I learned that running your own business and working in the events industry takes a lot of hard work and dedication. But by putting in long hours on weekdays and weekends, you will be rewarded with a sense of accomplishment and being a part of making your client's dreams turn into a reality.

What advice would you give?

The advice I would give to future students is to take notes. Sometimes there can be a lot going on at once and hard to remember everything you need to do in the present and for the future. Setting reminders on my phone and taking notes has gotten me through my internship. Another piece of advice I have is don't be afraid to ask questions. If you are ever unsure about something, it's better to ask your boss/mentors for help. This will help you learn how to do it correctly for future purposes as well. Most importantly, soak in every second of your experience. Always push yourself to learn and try to stay positive even when things get tough.

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