Art Buying was the closest experience I could get to a job in Creative, but I wouldn't say that I regret ever landing the internship. Sure, I was asked to do the expected intern tasks such as photocopying, filing, fed-exing, making lots of phone calls, delivering messages and acting as a liason between departments, but I also had the opportunity to attend portfolio cafes, review artists' books, tag along to photoshoots and network with various people from all departments. While it wasn't the dream environment to work in (everything was very rush, rush), let alone the dream internship job, I did learn a lot and got to see how an agency functioned as a whole.
Professional Treatment |
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I did it the hard way: pure luck. I sent in my resume and cover letter and hoped for the best. Art Buying is tough because it's so fast-paced that they really don't like interns to have much of a hands-on experience with things. It makes sense. You're dealing with deadlines, cients and lots of money. There's no room for error. I would say if you do it the old-fashioned way, make sure you mention that you're a great multi-tasker; that you just want to learn how the business works, that you have a strong interest in photography and that you're basically willing to lend a hand. Don't expect too much responsibility though. It won't happen - -not here, anyway. The other option is to get in through a contact. A recommendation from a past intern helps too. If they like you, they'll more than likely trust that you're friends with someone equally as smart, charming and hard-working.
I had two supervisors who were fun to be around when they weren't stressed out of their minds. Let's just say that they were stressed about 85% of the time. Tip: Don't bother your supervisor when you know he/she is working on something important. This may sound like an obvious tip, but just remember to always offer help when you think they may need it. Try t keep to yourself when you know they're busy or in a bad mood. Always look busy - even when you're bored out of your brains!
I was asked to show my book/any artwork I had recently created to get a feel of my personality and character.
I was asked about my interest in the department and future aspirations.
I was asked how I heard about Hill Holliday and what I hope to contribute as an intern.
No. I was still in school at the time. My supervisors also knew that my main goal was to get a Creative position. They kept stressing how difficult this would be to obtain. I believed them - still believe them.
Spring 2005
for Credit
Boston, MA
Reviewed on 03/22/2007