A Summer Spent Differently

Summer is usually all about sunshine, long lazy afternoons, and that simple worry of reapplying sunscreen.

But this summer, mine looked a little different.

While most of my friends were soaking up the sun at beach clubs or traveling, I was clocking in hours at internships. The "Hot Girl Summer" I had imagined quietly shifted into what I called my "Corporate Intern Girl Summer." And honestly, no one really prepares you for how draining that can be.

The Burnout That Sneaks Up

By mid-July, I wasn’t just tired- I was burnt out. The days blended together, it felt like the summer break I had hoped for was slipping away, replaced by a constant grind.

That said, the experience wasn’t all exhaustion. I was fortunate to work with both an agency and a corporate company, diving into areas of marketing that truly inspired me. Seeing how creative ideas come to life and learning how different teams collaborate gave me a fresh perspective on the industry. It was rewarding to be part of projects that challenged me and helped me grow professionally.

Balancing Ambition with Enjoyment

There’s a strange kind of FOMO that hits when you’re deep in work, and your friends are off enjoying cocktails in Mykonos. You start to wonder: Is this really the right path? Am I getting ahead or just missing out on my twenties one decision at a time?

Still, I know I’ve grown. I’ve gained new skills, learned to navigate office dynamics, and figured out that I can hold my own, even when it feels like I’m faking it.

What I’d Tell My Past Self

If I could give one piece of advice to the version of me who eagerly signed up for internship number one (and definitely number two), it would be this:

You’re not a machine. You don’t have to trade every summer for a line on your LinkedIn profile. It’s okay to want success and need rest. You’re allowed to say no, or at least, “Not this time.”

Experience matters. But so do joy, sleep, and having stories that go beyond spreadsheets and meeting notes.

Looking Ahead

At the end of the day, I don’t regret the internships- they challenged me and opened doors. But next summer? I might just spend more time with a book on the beach.

Love, Aria 

XO