My internship with Las Vegas City Hall has greatly benefitted me by providing an arsenal of resources and perspectives that enriched my current knowledge on civil works and public service. It shed insight on what is exactly is going on in the community around me. It allowed me to discover the different wards and diverse businesses that Las Vegas consists of. My internship has also allowed me to network with various departments within city hall and amongst other affiliated community organizations, such as Catholic Charities and Best Buddies.
Working for city hall, I am given the opportunity and even encouraged to attend community events. Amongst the countless events I was able to attend, the photo attached was an event celebrating UMC's renovation construction work after almost a centennial of service: UMC's reVITALize Project. Seeing what used to be one of Southern Las Vegas's classic staples undergo a transformation felt to me like a reminder of how things ultimately change with time, and it is up to the people deciding (or you yourself) to make things change for the better.
My internship is somewhat correlated to my major in Psychology and Criminal Justice, as the city hall works closely with the Metro police. I also find myself reading reports and studying in areas regarding mental health and the accessibility of resources in Las Vegas. That being said, I only think that a basic awareness of what is happening around the community and current events is enough to be successful in this internship. This internship has taught me a lot more about various subjects regarding city manners. I was also able to apply my perspectives and offer opinions in finding solutions to current problems within the Las Vegas community. It is something I would consider as a potential career, as I am heavily attracted to the fast-paced environment and the work culture- everyone I have met by far is very friendly and most of the time, willing to chat. Most of the time, people would be too busy to chat. This leads me to assert that time-management would be the most important skill to have in terms of holding a position with this career, as well as a basic understanding of how civil government works, along with the tenets and transparency that needs to be present when serving the public. Following closely after time management is critical thinking skills, and communication. There would be discussion everyday regarding important matters and concerns that happen amongst the community everyday.
That being said, I would heavily advise incoming interns to encourage discussion and facilitate communication skills. Do not be afraid to ask questions- even if the question is something you think you may have the answer to, as it has led me to new perspectives. Do not be afraid to ask for opportunities either. People often know people, and there was certainly a network amongst city hall. By asking, I was able to meet the most pleasant people. I have gain new mentors with advice guiding me tips on how to achieve my own career goals, and learned invaluable life advice from their own experiences.