There’s something almost mythical about spending a summer in New York City. This past summer wasn’t just a few lines on my résumé but a journey of personal and professional growth, discovery, and endless excitement.
As I walked through the doors of my internship office on the first day, I was struck by the sheer scale of it all. From the streets buzzing with a constant flow of pedestrians, taxis, and food trucks to the glistening towers housing some of the most influential companies, everything felt larger-than-life. On the surface, the city feels intimidating in every sense, but that’s exactly what makes it so exhilarating.
I had the privilege of interning at a major company in the marketing industry. While this opportunity will undoubtedly enhance my résumé, it also came with high expectations. The pace was relentless, but every moment felt like a challenge worth taking. I had the chance to work alongside professionals and many young talents, gaining invaluable experience that shaped my skills in ways the classroom could never offer.
But it wasn’t always about the 9-to-5.
This wasn’t my first time in New York, but the city always finds a way to reinvent itself. Outside of the office, the city was my source of motivation. New York is a mosaic of culture, art, and opportunity. From catching a Broadway show on the weekend to stumbling upon an underground club, the city offers an endless list of things to do, see, and experience. It thrives on contrasts—wealth and poverty, grit and glamour, tradition and innovation—creating a unique rhythm.
However, New York in the summer is a mixed bag of charms and challenges. Waiting for the subway during rush hour after a long day at the office in 90°F heat felt like a survival test. My overpriced apartment was one-third smaller than my dorm room. Yet, these inconveniences were minor compared to what the city gave back. Coming from a bustling metropolis, New York felt like home. The city is distant yet familiar. I learned to appreciate its unpredictability, from random conversations with strangers to the moments of quiet I’d find in a small coffee shop in the early morning.
What’s so special about New York is how it can make you feel both insignificant and important at the same time. Looking back on my experience, I gained far more than I had imagined. It was a mix of highs and lows, successes and failures, all punctuated by moments of awe. I never thought I would miss lugging 20 pounds of groceries up and down the hot city streets. I never imagined I would miss the claustrophobia of standing in a packed subway car during peak hours or walking home with my friends at 3 a.m., only to wake up at 8 to head to work. The city encourages you to do things that seem crazy yet feel so liberating.
This opportunity left a lasting mark. New York gives you more than you put into it, and that’s the magic of spending a summer here. As the bright lights of Manhattan fade in my rearview, I’m already thinking about when I’ll return.
