This summer, I have been working as a Digital Marketing intern for Mason and it has been an amazing experience. Before this internship, I never thought I would be able to experience the professional world as a high school student. Working at Mason has been a journey filled with valuable lessons that have shaped my approach towards working creatively.
Projects
During my time at Mason, I’ve had the opportunity to engage in tasks I’ve never done before, such as analyzing data, creating TikTok videos, and writing blogs. Some of the most fun and interesting projects were doing creative gap analyses for brands like Marimekko and filming videos using our soundproof booth. I found it fascinating to analyze companies that sell similar products and uncover what makes some more successful than others. I also enjoyed pulling in creatives from companies that I love when they were direct competitors of our clients. Making TikToks for Mason was a lot of fun as well. The whole process of making them was very fulfilling because it was a creative way to get work done and by the end, you have a fun memorable experience to share with the world.
Takeaways
One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is to not overthink. Creativity thrives when you allow thoughts to flow freely, without letting that over-critical voice in your head hold you back. Instead of perfecting an idea before acting on it, I’ve discovered the power of simply throwing ideas at the wall to see what sticks. Some ideas work, others don’t—but that’s just part of the creative process. Embracing the imperfections of creativity has taught me that each attempt, whether successful or not, offers insights that fuel future successes.
Another key takeaway has been the ability to identify creative gaps. I’ve started to see a company’s creative work through a different lens. I’ve learned to notice the small details that can make or break an ad, gaining a deeper understanding of how businesses can enhance their creative strategies. Observing the nuances that make certain campaigns succeed while others fall short has sharpened my creative instincts and made me more effective in my role.
Communication has also played a crucial role. Whether it’s chatting about our weekends or keeping each other updated on weekly tasks, I’ve learned that clear, open communication is key. It promotes collaboration, helps solve problems faster, and ensures that everyone is aligned. Sharing ideas, asking questions, and receiving feedback have all been essential to my productivity and growth at Mason.
Beyond the professional growth, what truly stands out about Mason is the strong sense of community. From the moment I joined, I was welcomed and supported. Despite being younger and newer than all of my colleagues, I’ve always felt included and valued as a part of the team. Whether it’s during collaborative brainstorming or casual conversations, the respect and kindness shown by everyone makes Mason feel like a family rather than just a workplace.
My journey at Mason has been one of learning, creativity, and a strong sense of community. Each experience has made me more confident and capable, ready to tackle new challenges with a fresh perspective. The willingness of others to offer guidance, share knowledge, and encourage new ideas has worked wonders for my personal and professional growth. I am incredibly grateful for this experience and will carry these lessons with me as I continue to explore the professional world.
Internships give students valuable on-the-job experience. If you’re interested in exploring internship opportunities at Mason Interactive, contact us today.
