Life Lessons-Free Write 11

One of the biggest things I did not realize about working for Special Events was the amount of physical activity that goes into it. I mean I realize I would be  out in the field quite a bit, in fact this is what I prefer. What I did not realize is how hands on the coordinator got. We were right there doing everything alongside the volunteers and other staff on top of other managerial things. I took a look today at my steps on my health app yesterday after everything was done at around 4. I know this is accurate because you can bet that I went right home and laid down for the rest of the evening!

I love it though. I love feeling like I worked hard and accomplished something.

Another thing I did not realize was how close I would get to the people I worked with. I knew that I would develop a relationship with some people, but I also knew that most people saw interns as being temporary and therefore would not make an effort. I have no idea if it's just the City of Chandler or what, but working with the staff has been such a positive experience. I have met so many different and interesting people, and all of them have been so friendly and welcoming.
I was crossing the huge field at Tumbleweed after Woofstock to get to my car and all of a sudden I hear "Alex!" Perplexed I turned around and saw a woman I had worked with early to clean out the dog water fountains we proved the guests. I had maybe interacted with her for an hour talking about work and our personal lives, but here she was calling out to me, "Have a good day, I'll see you at Tree Lighting!" Building community is so important to me, and in that moment I felt like I belonged. I wasn't the outsider anymore; I was the confident intern who was able to interact and relate with staff I had just met, and even those I had known for a couple of events, in a positive way.
It has been great to learn how to manage staff and volunteers. Being able to experience both working alongside them and asking them to do certain tasks has made me a better leader. The great part about recreation is that I am able to help with the work I am asking them to do. I would never ask them to do something I was unwilling. I envision myself in a career where I have the opportunity to get out from behind my desk at points and get out into the field. Recreation offers that perfect balance.

I am becoming more confident by the day. Not just in my professional development, but personal as well. I find that even if something seems impossible all I have to do is think "Remember that time you helped organize, run, and set up an event for 5,000 people?" and suddenly I don't feel so small anymore.