While preparing for job interviews, I practiced answering a number of questions. One that was particularly difficult for me to answer was: “What is your biggest weakness?” After much thought, I found my biggest weakness to be taking on too much responsibility at one time. However, looking back on my past experiences, this might also be my biggest strength. I now look at this “weakness” as being open to opportunity.

The past year has been a whirlwind of opportunity for me, and I could not be more grateful. Last semester, I was New Member Orientation Chair for my sorority, Alpha Xi Delta, which required managing and leading seventy-seven new members, all while balancing being Online Editor-in-Chief for UDress Magazine, the teaching assistant for COMM313 with Professor Bartoo, applying for summer internships, and managing my own school work. It is a miracle I made it out of that semester alive, let alone with my Honors Program GPA unscathed. I have to accredit my success to organization.

Here are some ways to stay organized amidst chaos this semester:

• Plan ahead. At the beginning of each semester, write down all exams, due dates, events, and deadlines in a calendar. If you can anticipate what’s coming up next, you will be more likely to be graceful under pressure.

• Utilize To-Do Lists. I make a to-do list religiously every day. I include even the smallest tasks on my lists, partially so I don’t forget and partially because crossing things off the list makes you feel productive! The more productive you feel, the more you will get done that day.

• Prioritize. What is due at midnight? Tomorrow? Next week? Next month? Order to-do lists in this manner, so you get the most important and time sensitive items out of the way first. (Extra tip: Always ask for deadlines if they aren’t given to you initially!)

Not only does organization play a role in academic success, but it also makes applying for and maintaining internships more efficient. When looking to apply, I first list the ideal places I would like to work. Next, I check on application deadlines and requirements for each. Then, I research and customize each cover letter and resume. After submission, record the date you formally applied and plan when you will follow up. I recommend utilizing UD Career Services to help prepare for interviews! 

By following these steps, I have gained so many unique experiences through internships. My experience includes Masterpiece Advertising Design, Bravo and Oxygen Media at NBCUniversal, a handful of guest blogging gigs (Creative Multimedia Systems and most recently, Revel U), and currently, Philadelphia Style Magazine. I encourage any student to get as much hands-on internship experience as possible. Not only does it look impressive on resumes, but it will ignite the drive and passion in you necessary to be successful in all aspects of life!