"One of the most important skills you need in a workplace is "self advocacy" - the ability to speak up for yourself when you need support, when you're confused about something, or when you're uncomfortable with a situation." I'll admit, it's really intimidating to speak up when you're surrounded by adults in a professional environment. One of the most valuable pieces of advice I received was during the first week; a manager had mentioned that it's normal for everyone to be uncomfortable in a new environment, but all it takes is "getting out of your office and meeting someone new everyday." After that I made an effort to stay amiable and meet as many people as possible. Once I'm comfortable in an environment it's easier for me to speak up. Something that alleviated the pressure was encouragement from my mentor as well as the friendly and accepting environment.
Thesis:
A strong relationship between employee and manager is vital to the success of the FAA; without a mutual understanding of one another’s responsibilities, the working relationship between the two will suffer. Throughout the next two weeks, I will conduct a series of interviews in order to analyze leadership development and interpersonal relations in the FAA. My ultimate goal will be to write a report that emphasizes the successes, identifies the faults, and proposes innovative recommendations in order to improve relations. To carry out this project I will need to set up interviews with the employees and put my interviewing skills to use. I could also talk with my mentor and see if he has any suggestions on who I should interview and what I should ask.
The answers to these questions were very insightful. I learned a lot about not only about my mentors career path, but what it takes to be a great leader like him. It makes me happy to realize that it's possible to rise in ranks as long as you have the drive and willingness to better yourself. My mentor's "rise to the top" wasn't instantaneous, he worked hard everyday (and he still works hard everyday) to meet his goals. Interning with a government branch is an opportunity I have never gotten the chance to experience before. It is definitely different from what I had imagined; it involves a lot of time in the cubical and note taking. Nevertheless, I really admire the configuration of day to day operations. For example, team briefings are a daily requirement and interpersonal relations are necessary to a successful administration. Everyone is very sociable, responsible, and socially responsible. They know the work they do is vital to their nation and they perform their duties with pride. The general attitude of employees at the FAA is inspiring and respectable.
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AuthorThis blog showcases my experiences while interning at the FAA. ArchivesCategories |