Testimonial to Bader Rutter

Since the first day I walked through the doors of Pinnacle 2 at 13845 Bishop's Drive, I knew this would be a different summer experience. A new location, new internship focus and new company had much potential. Now that my temporary stay at Bader Rutter is complete, I am confident the people of this organization have more value than what is on the name plate. They are part of the Bader Rutter family.

Last lunch with some of my PR and writing coworkers.

I wasn't sure what this meant when I first heard it from lead executives of the agency. Now, I know it embodies more than the collaboration in meetings to produce high-quality work. BR possess a culture with appreciation and support to cultivate relationships and life-long learning. Whether I was writing a feature article, researching information on millennials or critiquing product videos, I was not seen as an intern. I was a fellow cohort to the crafty, creative minds providing innovation in every medium.

This new family taught me more than just writing, research and strategy. 

I have also learned:

I don't want to die

My biggest worry is to die -- without a life purpose or meaning. These past few months have made me realize that there are many ways I can create that meaning and purpose I seek.

"Life is about learning; when you stop learning, you die."

This quote by Tom Clancy could not be more clear for me. I am constantly learning about myself and the different career paths ahead and things that interest or excite me. I know that the more I continue to learn, the more sense my future will make. 

I have one work week remaining of my internship. It is unbelievable how quickly three months can fly by when at first, it seemed to move at a sluggish pace. I have met some amazing individuals and many I am sure I will stay connected with later in life. 

While having lunch with some coworkers this week, they shared much advice. Here are three key takeaways I am going to start implementing more to continue learning and so I won't die without a purpose.

Don't take your foot off the gas pedal

I have a need for speed. Not only do I have an atypical enjoyment of NASCAR, but I also enjoy a fast-paced, agile environment. Completing my first week at Bader Rutter, I have found my desire to stay busy and be involved is in its practice laps.

As a high type-A personality, I am very eager to get involved and stay busy through the duration of each day. However, as I begin to analyze the "race" ahead, the level of activity I seek may not always be available. In the agency, I am just beginning my laps while others on the PR team have completed many. It is difficult for me to join in the middle of their race while I am warming up my tires.

However, even with less work to complete right now, I have learned to not take my foot off the gas pedal. After conversing with Greg Nickerson, Bader Rutter's chief executive officer, I have found insight for the theme of this blog post.

More than just a name plate

Day two, complete! If you have ever started a new job, you know that the first few days are very procedural and introductory. Of course, I completed the standard paperwork and got comfortable at my desk and in the office building. However, these couple of days have been more significant than just receiving a name plate.

One important aspect of joining a new company is connecting with the staff. I have spent nearly half of my time these past two days meeting with many different employees I will be collaborating with during this summer. From meeting with members of my DOW Agrosciences PR team to conversing with lead management staff of Bader Rutter, I am eager to begin a variety of projects related to my passions in communication and agriculture!

No matter what role each of these people hold, they are equally important for the success of Bader Rutter and the company's clientele.

I am excited to see what will happen these next few weeks. Not only am I looking forward to making connections in the office, but also with this outstanding group on a social level. My roommate is also an intern at Bader Rutter and we look forward to exploring Milwaukee together! We are both participating on the company's volleyball and softball teams for agency leagues. It will certainly be a fun experience and with a positive outlook, we both are bound to have an amazing summer.

It is time to push myself so the experience is more meaningful than just a name plate. Will you do the same for your summer opportunities?

Caroline

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