Interning in the Big Apple: An Italian Perspective

It’s been over two months...

I don't want to forget the smiles of the people I met, their stories, and the smell of food that flooded the lobby of the building where I went to work.
 

As an Italian citizen and alumna of the AIC Custom Internship Program through the Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, I had the opportunity to intern in America’s corporate capital—New York City. When I applied for the internship, I admit, I was only concerned with how much this experience would stand out on my resume. I thought, this is a Western country, after all, and a leading nation in Globalization. However, I could never have imagined the emotive impact that this kind experience would have on me.

I was fortunate enough to be placed with Good Counsel, a nonprofit law organization, where I acquired strong professional skills, like revieweing contracts and following complex procedures. I learned so many lessons from the variety of people I encountered along my journey. My collegues, my employer, and our clients gave me a world of optimism and creativity to build upon my experience. Everyone at my internship was always ready to put themselves to the test, which made me inclined to do the same.

My favorite aspect of the internship was the level of respect, professionalism, and accountability that was set within the work place. I learned and appreciated that it didn’t matter if you were young or old, a woman or man, a foreigner or local, if you had something to contribute, you were encouraged to do so. I realized this made me comfortable in my enviroment, which allowed me to grow tremendously.

Towards the end of my time in New York, I was able to publically present on why and how to make federal registration of a trademark by hosting a presentation at The Centre for Social Innovation in front of  group of professionals. In this moment, I felt greatly valued. My employer trusted my ability to put forth ideas, enabling me to grow professionally, which was evident in this amazing presentation opportunity.

Living in the city that never sleeps was quite an inexplicable experience. The night sky made it seems like this city was mine—that any doubt about my future or career didn’t belong here. Instead, my mind was conjuring up thoughts about new projects and ideas.

Moreover, through this program I gained lasting friendships. I have fond memories walking along the Botanical Garden in Brooklyn with the ground covered in snow, enjoying time with friends I made at the residence. We would just burst out laughing because of our desire to explore the city despite the inhospitable weather.

After returning home, it is so important that I don’t forget the faces, the smiles, the enthusiasm, and the atmosphere at Good Counsel. It was such a rewarding internship that taught me ethical professionalism, networking skills, and encouraged me to go forward confidently sharing my thoughts.

Alessia Asaro, 2017 Global Intern in New York City, is a law student at Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore in Milan, Italy.