I really need to get my ass to bed earlier. I ended up staying on the phone a lot later then I should have and the morning was like a big blur. I think I changed my outfit three or four times, and thank God I decided to wear my Fuggs (the Ugg knockoffs from the previous blog).
While standing on the platform for the train, it started to snow... Little flurries that became masses by the time I got to my block. In a childish way, this got me excited. I had not seen snow fall since I was kid. All day I would catch myself staring at it fall…it was a bit soothing but with the excitement of something new and unfamiliar.
On the train I felt like I was asleep standing up. If you know me well you know that I hate screeching and scratching sounds (nails on a chalkboard, the sound of a broom on a floor, even the sounds of pencil sometimes), they make me grind my teeth (even with the thought of it now). The subway system is full of such sounds with the speeding up, slowing down, and stopping. At first, I needed the reading to distract myself from it. Now being so tired, I had no interest in keeping my eyes open. And I didn’t the whole ride, even if I was standing. The sounds had now become familiar, almost rhythmic sometimes and did not distract my sleepiness.
Transferring trains I got an idea…to maybe chronicle my time here through pictures as well. I have always had an interest in photography so I thought it might be a good project to take on. And not the everyday tourist stuff, but the things that are uniquely normal here…the musicians on the subway, the artisan on the street, the line at Dean & Deluca for coffee in the morning (Claire Danes had been spotted there that day).
Speaking of coffee, there was no second thought of getting coffee today. I marched straight there. I had 20mins to kill and I needed it badly. I ordered the usually and asked for skim milk, but when the lady called out the order, she said soy. Now I hate soy milk very much, but did not feel like hassling and figured it would be healthier. It did not taste that much different, probably because I sweetened it with every powder and sugar they had.
Once I got to work and removed my extras (also slang from the previous blog), I was informed that my first task would send me back outside. Now the snow was not light and fluffy and sweet anymore. It was dashing in all directions with the winds. I was to go price how much the envelops with the look books and forms would cost to mail (you know the ones I spent my life packing away). We, well I, had put media mail stickers on all 91, however, having the sticker put the envelopes into a different price range. So I was off to the post office. When I got outside my umbrella went haywire. It was not created to sustain the winds I was experiencing. I had to look hilarious messing with it (its bright green so I don’t lose it); coffee in one hand, envelope stuffed into my jacket. At one point my glove got stuck in the latch and I had to rip it out, leaving a hole in my glove. At another, one part of the umbrella started to bend inward cause of the wind. And even at another, the envelope started to slip out from under my jacket. And of course, I didn’t find the post office right away. Mia even passed me on the way to work but didn’t recognize me.
At the post office I was informed that the media mail sticker did make a price difference, and the lady broke all the price variations down for me. I knew what was next…me peeling all the media mail stickers off. And that’s exactly what happened. But my time with the post office was not nearly finished.
There was also two new interns helping out for fashion week, and one who had been there for quite some time. They utilized all of us. The two new ones were the friendlist; one had moved from the UK to NY just recently (I could not get enough of her accent, she said things like “pardon”) and the other commuted here once a week from Maryland! Yes, a 4 hours commute. I forgot his name but the girl was Lisa.
All the tasks I did that day were typical until it was time to mail the envelopes. The boy intern needed to go to Staples to pick up refill ink for the Karen Walker stamp for the invitations. I could not carry all 91 envelopes, even in bags, to the post office, so he came with me first. The snow was intense. After waiting in line for what seemed like an eternity we got to a window. Before showing her our shipment I begged her to patient with us because we had no idea what we were doing. Then I lifted the bags. Loretta, I’ll never forget her, sighed but said “we’re going to get through this” LOL I laugh just thinking about it.
So batch by batch, we weighed and priced shipping for each. Stamping, calculating, organizing. Thank God the other intern was there; it took us 45mins to do it together, imagine if I was alone. We completed $157 worth of stamping and labeling, and thankfully matched the estimate we made back at the office. Then, I noticed my phone was vibrating. I had been so focused on the task that I didn’t realize my missed calls. The office was calling. Amanda was on the line, asking where the boy intern was. I told her he was with me. He had forgotten his phone. She very urgently told us to get back with the ink as soon as possible. This was our first instant of The Devil Wears Prada intern times. Apparently our Director was very anxious in finishing the invitations and you could hear it in Amanda’s voice that she was being held accountable. So we rushed to Staples a few blocks down to find they did not have black ink. He had a very nice employee named Shane (another life saver) look up the ink at every store in Manhattan. The closest only had one left, so we made him call and have them hold it.
Then came the dashing through the snow part of my day. Minus the sleigh and the laughing all way.
We had to walk 8 blocks from one Staples to the next and fast. Amanda was still freaking out a bit but was at ease when we finally arrived at the other Staples, ink in hand. The poor male intern was so nervous that he’d get his head bitten off that he wanted to run back…in the snow. 8 blocks back in the opposite direction (about two miles in total travel b/t going to both stores). And I, the only one with a phone, was forced to oblige. Though I was thankful for the stability my boots provided in the snow, they did not allow the full range of motion to run back in smooth motion. Regardless, for the most part I did run, and something I thought was never possible in 20 degree weather happened: I sweated. I was out of breath once we got back, clothes sticking to me. Amanda apologized for being so anxious but said she was under some pressure. I sipped a water bottle and could only nod. I had worked out the day before and was sore prior to, but now my body burned all over.
It doesn’t have to be Christmas time to dash through the snow I guess...
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
The Hustle Part
It has been over a year since I bartended. My uncle informed me earlier in the week that they were short a bartender for one of their big parties and he put me on to help. This made me nervous…its one thing to work for someone you don’t know, and quite another to have someone’s trustworthiness on your shoulder. I wondered how much my memory would hold, so I started reviewing my drinks and techniques throughout the week. Some of what I knew were college infused drinks…this crowd would be older, drinking scotch and martinis and it was a bit intimidating. When I got there, the actual owner had the pre work meeting, the “no games we are here to work so don’t let me catch you slacking meeting.” He was wearing all black and it didn’t help.
The night was not all so bad. It got busy, and I stumbled a bit at first, but eventually got the groove of things. It got super busy at times and that was the biggest challenge, juggled the waiters orders and the line in front of me. At the end of the night I made over $130 for about 5-6hrs of work and was absolutely exhausted. The owner even asked me how long I would be here so he could work me in more often. I was pretty proud of myself. Everyone thinks the bartending thing is fun, which it is, but what they don’t know how tiring it can be. You are on your feet moving around for hours on end. Not to mention the occasional injury to your finger if an opener or something is broken (like mine was). I was beat, but had made enough to last me my general expenses and some stuff I might need.
The following day I helped a friend out who makes fan films/photography. He needed a Catwoman fill in and my cousin suggested me. So we took some pictures to maybe sell at this big comic event next week. I think I looked pretty damn good and the picture has got some interesting Facebook comments. It was my first photoshoot!
I also applied for Teach for America awhile back and have my final interview next week Monday. I have a suit but no pumps. So we decided to go to Marshall’s, which I must say, is not that great up here. In the pursuit of just regular black pumps a lady intercepted Kimmy speaking Spanish. She turned her over to me. The lady was trying to buy a pair of designer sunglasses. She tested my patience soo badly I thought someone might pop up with a hidden camera and start laughing about some candid camera show. She had about six shades in her hand, and started with these two Coach ones. "Which ones were darker, your eyes are younger then mine so do any have any scratches, how do they look on me…wait, or would you wear these, how do they look on me, now look at them both"…this lady had me cursing inside. I wanted to say, 'listen, you are clearly not 23 years old so what I wear and what you wear should not be the same thing, stop trying to be brand happy & in the youth culture & go celebrate your over the hill status with grace.' Shit I was irritated…even now writing it gets me bothered. She went on for almost ten minutes before I said I had to go and even that was a struggle.
They didn’t have the pumps so I have to keep looking sometime this week...
The night was not all so bad. It got busy, and I stumbled a bit at first, but eventually got the groove of things. It got super busy at times and that was the biggest challenge, juggled the waiters orders and the line in front of me. At the end of the night I made over $130 for about 5-6hrs of work and was absolutely exhausted. The owner even asked me how long I would be here so he could work me in more often. I was pretty proud of myself. Everyone thinks the bartending thing is fun, which it is, but what they don’t know how tiring it can be. You are on your feet moving around for hours on end. Not to mention the occasional injury to your finger if an opener or something is broken (like mine was). I was beat, but had made enough to last me my general expenses and some stuff I might need.
The following day I helped a friend out who makes fan films/photography. He needed a Catwoman fill in and my cousin suggested me. So we took some pictures to maybe sell at this big comic event next week. I think I looked pretty damn good and the picture has got some interesting Facebook comments. It was my first photoshoot!
I also applied for Teach for America awhile back and have my final interview next week Monday. I have a suit but no pumps. So we decided to go to Marshall’s, which I must say, is not that great up here. In the pursuit of just regular black pumps a lady intercepted Kimmy speaking Spanish. She turned her over to me. The lady was trying to buy a pair of designer sunglasses. She tested my patience soo badly I thought someone might pop up with a hidden camera and start laughing about some candid camera show. She had about six shades in her hand, and started with these two Coach ones. "Which ones were darker, your eyes are younger then mine so do any have any scratches, how do they look on me…wait, or would you wear these, how do they look on me, now look at them both"…this lady had me cursing inside. I wanted to say, 'listen, you are clearly not 23 years old so what I wear and what you wear should not be the same thing, stop trying to be brand happy & in the youth culture & go celebrate your over the hill status with grace.' Shit I was irritated…even now writing it gets me bothered. She went on for almost ten minutes before I said I had to go and even that was a struggle.
They didn’t have the pumps so I have to keep looking sometime this week...
Friday, January 30, 2009
Molesting a Mannequin
Thursday was a sunny day and standing on the platform waiting for the 6express, I suddenly got a wave of love for what I am doing. The last few days had been somewhat difficult for me emotionally; I had a few other, more secure opportunities, open up recently and I was torn at the thought of possibly having to make such a big decision so soon. Sonia had also sent in an email for us to bring our laptops to work...but ugh, I don't have one, and honestly can't afford one. I may buy an old one off a friend or just ask Tio for his to borrow next week. But truth is I am kind of embarrassed to ask. It got me down a bit...but for today I decided just to focus on what was in front of me and conquer it as best I could. I knew it would be a long day, but I was optimistic.
The approach of the 6 looked like a metal caterpillar, slithering closer with each unit contracting in a smooth unison, up and around the turns. I thought about how once the train got underground, it would look more like a speeding bullet then the insect it resembled now.
I ended up getting to work about 15mins early again. The trains lined up perfectly. I sat outside the suite and fixed my boots. I made the mistake of wearing ankle sucks that my boots swallowed at every opportunity.They were Ugg knockoffs that my cousin gave me. I swore on life I would never own a pair (and technically I still don't), most likely because the girls I saw in Tallahassee wore them with bare legs and skirts, undermining their purpose. I have to admit, they are warm though. After fidgeting with them for about two minutes, I noticed it was ten to ten. I vacillated over coffee for two minutes and finally gave in. I managed to get my white chocolate mocha and make it back right on time.
When I came in and started taking off my extras (coat, scarf, etc.), I noticed a dog bed and water bowl. I stopped and stared for a second, a tad confused. Minutes later my answer arrived. Cathy, the head of the office, walked in with an adorable dog, a big 8month old labrador-collie-looking mix. This in a strange way made my day. The thought that this was not normal in an office only crossed my mind for a second...his presence was comfort. I missed having Mona at my feet and trotting about all day. So even if he was just sleeping, I felt more natural when he was there. He was clutsy on his feet and had an apprehensive curiousity. What seemed like her boyfriend came in for a few hours around lunch time. He commanded the dog to do simple tricks and we chatted a bit about dogs in general while I worked on a task. I even had a chance to conversate with Cathy while I waited for print outs.
My tasks for that day were varied; of course, there was the mailouts that still weren't finished. Completing these presented a new adminitrative task I had never done: changing an ink catridge. Some may wonder why a 23 year old who has had varied job experience never changed an ink catridge. The only real explanation I can provide is that I maybe had a working printer in college for about a month. Of course, I never let on that this was a new and strange experience for me. I just looked at the display pictures and replicated them and then, success! An administrative milestone, I had to laugh at myself.
Afterward they said I could go to lunch since they had nothing else set up (thanks to my inability to provide a laptop...great). I wasn't practicularly hungry, so I decided to wonder a bit. I asked the security guard if there was an internet cafe nearbye and he told me there was one that was part of a bookstore and gave me directions. It was independtly owned and charming. I wanted to read everything I saw, but that always happens with me and bookstores. I didn't realize how long I was in there (about 30mins) and still had to eat something. I grabbed some independent newspapers and magazines on the way out and stopped at hotdog stand. I had found my first favorite place in NYC.
When I got back I had to change the shoes on the male mannequin. Another new task. This one was particularly hilarious, especially if you happened to catch a glimpse of my struggle. The shoes were a brand we no longer represented, so we had to switch them for Pointers. The first set of Pointers refused to go on, even without laces. At one point I tried to stand him up and force his foot in but failed. Upon lowering him down to the floor I lost my grip and well...dropped him some. The drop made a loud thud and drew some "what was that"s...I yelled that we were okay, even though I dislocated his shoulder. I finally gave up and said they didn't fit, so they got me another pair. This molestation was not as bad. The shoes came on with a few bangs on the heel, a technique I learned as a trainer to check for broken bones. I had broken a sweat. The other intern laughed and said I look like a mortician. The boyfriend gave out a "wow that sucks." I was very relieved when it was over. The shoes turned out to be my first free perk of the job; they were my cousin's size so they said I could have them.
More folder duty called and I answered. I also helped Sonia contact stores whose emails were bouncing back. While she gathered names I helped another intern put together the huge print out of the seating chart/arrangement. I was eating an apple and noticed Winslow (the puppy) watching me when I first started eating it. Sure enough, when I got up to help, Winslow took a licking to my apple. Mia laughed and asked whose it was because she was going to throw it away thanks to recent slobber fest he gave it. Though I was hungry at that point and the apple was delicious, the whole thing was cute and reminded me of Mona.
And just like that the day was done...well that part of the day at least. I still was going to help Tio at the club that night with email sign ups and door work. I bumped in the "dancing guy" on the train ride home again and found he is only a stop before me. As much as it is a little weird, at least he takes full advantage of his time. I worked at the club until 10:30pm. I came home exhuasted, but at least got a few free drinks, dinner, and some money out of the day...oh yeah...and a free pair of shoes thanks to the cooperation (more like the slight cooperation) of a molested mannequin.
The approach of the 6 looked like a metal caterpillar, slithering closer with each unit contracting in a smooth unison, up and around the turns. I thought about how once the train got underground, it would look more like a speeding bullet then the insect it resembled now.
I ended up getting to work about 15mins early again. The trains lined up perfectly. I sat outside the suite and fixed my boots. I made the mistake of wearing ankle sucks that my boots swallowed at every opportunity.They were Ugg knockoffs that my cousin gave me. I swore on life I would never own a pair (and technically I still don't), most likely because the girls I saw in Tallahassee wore them with bare legs and skirts, undermining their purpose. I have to admit, they are warm though. After fidgeting with them for about two minutes, I noticed it was ten to ten. I vacillated over coffee for two minutes and finally gave in. I managed to get my white chocolate mocha and make it back right on time.
When I came in and started taking off my extras (coat, scarf, etc.), I noticed a dog bed and water bowl. I stopped and stared for a second, a tad confused. Minutes later my answer arrived. Cathy, the head of the office, walked in with an adorable dog, a big 8month old labrador-collie-looking mix. This in a strange way made my day. The thought that this was not normal in an office only crossed my mind for a second...his presence was comfort. I missed having Mona at my feet and trotting about all day. So even if he was just sleeping, I felt more natural when he was there. He was clutsy on his feet and had an apprehensive curiousity. What seemed like her boyfriend came in for a few hours around lunch time. He commanded the dog to do simple tricks and we chatted a bit about dogs in general while I worked on a task. I even had a chance to conversate with Cathy while I waited for print outs.
My tasks for that day were varied; of course, there was the mailouts that still weren't finished. Completing these presented a new adminitrative task I had never done: changing an ink catridge. Some may wonder why a 23 year old who has had varied job experience never changed an ink catridge. The only real explanation I can provide is that I maybe had a working printer in college for about a month. Of course, I never let on that this was a new and strange experience for me. I just looked at the display pictures and replicated them and then, success! An administrative milestone, I had to laugh at myself.
Afterward they said I could go to lunch since they had nothing else set up (thanks to my inability to provide a laptop...great). I wasn't practicularly hungry, so I decided to wonder a bit. I asked the security guard if there was an internet cafe nearbye and he told me there was one that was part of a bookstore and gave me directions. It was independtly owned and charming. I wanted to read everything I saw, but that always happens with me and bookstores. I didn't realize how long I was in there (about 30mins) and still had to eat something. I grabbed some independent newspapers and magazines on the way out and stopped at hotdog stand. I had found my first favorite place in NYC.
When I got back I had to change the shoes on the male mannequin. Another new task. This one was particularly hilarious, especially if you happened to catch a glimpse of my struggle. The shoes were a brand we no longer represented, so we had to switch them for Pointers. The first set of Pointers refused to go on, even without laces. At one point I tried to stand him up and force his foot in but failed. Upon lowering him down to the floor I lost my grip and well...dropped him some. The drop made a loud thud and drew some "what was that"s...I yelled that we were okay, even though I dislocated his shoulder. I finally gave up and said they didn't fit, so they got me another pair. This molestation was not as bad. The shoes came on with a few bangs on the heel, a technique I learned as a trainer to check for broken bones. I had broken a sweat. The other intern laughed and said I look like a mortician. The boyfriend gave out a "wow that sucks." I was very relieved when it was over. The shoes turned out to be my first free perk of the job; they were my cousin's size so they said I could have them.
More folder duty called and I answered. I also helped Sonia contact stores whose emails were bouncing back. While she gathered names I helped another intern put together the huge print out of the seating chart/arrangement. I was eating an apple and noticed Winslow (the puppy) watching me when I first started eating it. Sure enough, when I got up to help, Winslow took a licking to my apple. Mia laughed and asked whose it was because she was going to throw it away thanks to recent slobber fest he gave it. Though I was hungry at that point and the apple was delicious, the whole thing was cute and reminded me of Mona.
And just like that the day was done...well that part of the day at least. I still was going to help Tio at the club that night with email sign ups and door work. I bumped in the "dancing guy" on the train ride home again and found he is only a stop before me. As much as it is a little weird, at least he takes full advantage of his time. I worked at the club until 10:30pm. I came home exhuasted, but at least got a few free drinks, dinner, and some money out of the day...oh yeah...and a free pair of shoes thanks to the cooperation (more like the slight cooperation) of a molested mannequin.
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Day II-Getting Into the Routine
I woke up tired again because I'm still not adjusted to everything yet. I craved coffee from the second I woke up but fought it. I don't want to get how I used to during finals week & am trying to do things to increase my natural energy levels. I knew at some point I would want something, but I decided against it first thing in the morning; since I hadn't had coffee regularly in awhile I knew it would really wake me up but once it wore off I'd be sleepy. My tio (uncle in Spanish, it is getting weird for me to write "uncle") diligently knocked on my door at 7:03am. I rolled out of bed about 10mins later to my alarm clock. While I was walking to the bathroom, he told me he made pancakes and turkey bacon. Though I'm not one to eat food so early, I knew I should. It would wake me up and keep me full for longer. So after waking myself with my normal a.m. bathroom routine I sat down.
My cousin gave me a big bag to carry all my stuff down to work. It was stuffed with everything I might need for the day...lotion, snacks, a winter hat, etc. I figured out my outfit and then took part of it off and also put it in my bag. It is common here to change at work and wear w/e you need to wear to stay warm until you get there. We were off around 8:15am. My tio drove me to the closest train stop because he had to go to work nearbye, which was great because it saved me a bus trip and a longer commute. It was the first time I went to work completely on my own. He made me repeat my route just in case I forgot. I caught the train around 8:45am and read Marley & Me almost the whole way (great book, I recommend it...I have a very "special" dog too).
I got to Broadway and Prince around 9:40am, 20mins early, so I decided to check out Dean & Deluca. When I walked in, it dawned on me that this was the same company I used to see on Felicity. I chuckled because I never knew it was a real company...guess I never made the connection. I decided against coffee again and decided to just go in a little early and get settled. When I got to our suite, a girl was sitting on one of the window ledges by the door. I asked her if she was waiting to go in and she said she was going to go in but wasn't waiting. I introduced myself and asked if she was an intern. She said yes and went back on to fiddling with her phone. She was not as nice as the intern I met on my first day.
My "supervisor's" per say were not there yet. Jane, the PR person, advised me that they are usually a little late. I figured it would look good that I was there early, so I just waited until they got there. I tried to strike up conversation with the other intern all day, but she was just not that friendly. The most I got was that she was from Maryland, started right before the holidays, and was already bored with the internship. Bored? Why would you admit that...I figured it would be better for me because her lack of interest was noticable. This is a business of getting ahead and standing out, and even if I had a menial task I was commiteed to doing it the best it could be done and with a smile on my face. People notice those kind of things. Intiative it key.
For example: My first task was to steam some of the showroom clothes. I have never steamed anything in my entire life (aside from hanging up clothes in the bathroom while I take a hot shower, but I'm sure that doesn't count), but I never told them that. I let them show me how to use the steamer and how they suggested I do it. So I just copied them and took my time. They told me it was best to go from the inside, which I did for the most part, until I would burn my fingers. Then I would just do the outside. The other intern played with her phone while I was doing this and flipping through a magazine. While I was finishing, some of the employees came in again with Starbucks. I knew I was in trouble...I asked them where the Starbucks was for future reference and they told me it was off Spring Street. I quickly went through my memory of last trip around the area and knew it was nearbye, just not sure in what direction. They said because I was done and they needed about 20mins to get me set up, I could go grab some. I knew I had money on my giftcard and finally gave in to my need for caffeine. Of course, I went one block in the wrong direction and got lucky in guessing which way to go once I got to Spring Street.
Once I got back, they asked me to merchandise the bag and Pointer display and dust it. I climbed up on stool and took my time in figuring out the best way the bags would look. Then I dusted the little shelves/cubicles the shoes were in and made sure they were all facing the right direction. At that time buyers came in, so once I was done I hung in the office until they were finished. I also had a conversation with the PR girl and told her about how I got here/what I've done. She asked me some questions about my interests etc., and told me if I had any questions about anything she could help. My next task took me the majority of the day, literally. All the brand appointment folders were not complete; some were missing forms, other buiness cards, etc. Sonia asked me to make sure each brand had around 20-25 prepared folders. Obviously upon observation, I noticed a ton of discrepancies in forms and consistency. So I pointed them out...I did not finish the whole project until around 4:15pm but they were very thankful for my attention to detail. (We ordered in luch from this place called Lite Delights with great prices. I got a HUGE tuna melt that I couldn't finish and brought home for $4 and change. I did forget that coffee and tuna are not the best things to mix in the same day & I suffered stomach cramps for doing it) A few times they thanked me for pointing things out and asking them what I should do about certain things I noticed. My fingers were hurting & I hoped I could do something not having to do with paper onceI finished...but of course I did. Next came preparing mail outs like I had before with order forms and line sheets. The printer ran out of paper (which I was a bit relieved about), so I didn't have to stuff all the envelopes. I was free to go right at 6pm. The coffee had definitely worn off about an hour before.
Then back on the train to the Bronx where tio picked me up from the station. Luckily I did not have to work the next day and would have a chance to catch up on missed sleep/rest, which is exactly what I did. =)
My cousin gave me a big bag to carry all my stuff down to work. It was stuffed with everything I might need for the day...lotion, snacks, a winter hat, etc. I figured out my outfit and then took part of it off and also put it in my bag. It is common here to change at work and wear w/e you need to wear to stay warm until you get there. We were off around 8:15am. My tio drove me to the closest train stop because he had to go to work nearbye, which was great because it saved me a bus trip and a longer commute. It was the first time I went to work completely on my own. He made me repeat my route just in case I forgot. I caught the train around 8:45am and read Marley & Me almost the whole way (great book, I recommend it...I have a very "special" dog too).
I got to Broadway and Prince around 9:40am, 20mins early, so I decided to check out Dean & Deluca. When I walked in, it dawned on me that this was the same company I used to see on Felicity. I chuckled because I never knew it was a real company...guess I never made the connection. I decided against coffee again and decided to just go in a little early and get settled. When I got to our suite, a girl was sitting on one of the window ledges by the door. I asked her if she was waiting to go in and she said she was going to go in but wasn't waiting. I introduced myself and asked if she was an intern. She said yes and went back on to fiddling with her phone. She was not as nice as the intern I met on my first day.
My "supervisor's" per say were not there yet. Jane, the PR person, advised me that they are usually a little late. I figured it would look good that I was there early, so I just waited until they got there. I tried to strike up conversation with the other intern all day, but she was just not that friendly. The most I got was that she was from Maryland, started right before the holidays, and was already bored with the internship. Bored? Why would you admit that...I figured it would be better for me because her lack of interest was noticable. This is a business of getting ahead and standing out, and even if I had a menial task I was commiteed to doing it the best it could be done and with a smile on my face. People notice those kind of things. Intiative it key.
For example: My first task was to steam some of the showroom clothes. I have never steamed anything in my entire life (aside from hanging up clothes in the bathroom while I take a hot shower, but I'm sure that doesn't count), but I never told them that. I let them show me how to use the steamer and how they suggested I do it. So I just copied them and took my time. They told me it was best to go from the inside, which I did for the most part, until I would burn my fingers. Then I would just do the outside. The other intern played with her phone while I was doing this and flipping through a magazine. While I was finishing, some of the employees came in again with Starbucks. I knew I was in trouble...I asked them where the Starbucks was for future reference and they told me it was off Spring Street. I quickly went through my memory of last trip around the area and knew it was nearbye, just not sure in what direction. They said because I was done and they needed about 20mins to get me set up, I could go grab some. I knew I had money on my giftcard and finally gave in to my need for caffeine. Of course, I went one block in the wrong direction and got lucky in guessing which way to go once I got to Spring Street.
Once I got back, they asked me to merchandise the bag and Pointer display and dust it. I climbed up on stool and took my time in figuring out the best way the bags would look. Then I dusted the little shelves/cubicles the shoes were in and made sure they were all facing the right direction. At that time buyers came in, so once I was done I hung in the office until they were finished. I also had a conversation with the PR girl and told her about how I got here/what I've done. She asked me some questions about my interests etc., and told me if I had any questions about anything she could help. My next task took me the majority of the day, literally. All the brand appointment folders were not complete; some were missing forms, other buiness cards, etc. Sonia asked me to make sure each brand had around 20-25 prepared folders. Obviously upon observation, I noticed a ton of discrepancies in forms and consistency. So I pointed them out...I did not finish the whole project until around 4:15pm but they were very thankful for my attention to detail. (We ordered in luch from this place called Lite Delights with great prices. I got a HUGE tuna melt that I couldn't finish and brought home for $4 and change. I did forget that coffee and tuna are not the best things to mix in the same day & I suffered stomach cramps for doing it) A few times they thanked me for pointing things out and asking them what I should do about certain things I noticed. My fingers were hurting & I hoped I could do something not having to do with paper onceI finished...but of course I did. Next came preparing mail outs like I had before with order forms and line sheets. The printer ran out of paper (which I was a bit relieved about), so I didn't have to stuff all the envelopes. I was free to go right at 6pm. The coffee had definitely worn off about an hour before.
Then back on the train to the Bronx where tio picked me up from the station. Luckily I did not have to work the next day and would have a chance to catch up on missed sleep/rest, which is exactly what I did. =)
Friday, January 23, 2009
The First Day
So the day started off at 7:00am when my alarm went off. I was tired. I'm still not adjusted to a normal schedule, since the holiday break had broken my sleeping pattern.
I had no idea what to wear. They said casual but no sneakers. So I was supposed to stay warm, look cute, but not too laid back...I changed my outfit twice. I settled on skinny jeans, a wood green short sweater and black ballerina flats. I decided not to straighten my hair and put the natural curls up with my baby hump. I hoped it would pass cause I thought I looked cute...but who knows with the fashion world...
When we got to the car (my uncle wanted to accompany me the first day which I beyond appreciated), the car would not start (he had left the light on the night before). He started freaking out and called a friend. The whole ordeal lasted about 20-30mins. But I stayed calm, stuff like this happened to me all the time. My ex always teased me about leaving my lights on and killing my battery. I figured it would make a good story.
The story got better when we got to the bridge leading to the trains and it was up. My uncle insisted that they were never up doing rush hour because it backs up traffic, which it did very successfully. He freaked some more after waiting 5mins and pulled out of the lane and in the opposite direction to go around another way. It was about 9:15am. I was supposed to be there at 10.
We finally got to the station and on the train at 9:30am. He couldn't believe how calm I was in comparison to how frantic he was. "It's your first day, I can't believe this is happening." But I figured they would understand.
We took the 6 to 125th, got on the express (4 or 5) to 14th, then the R to Prince Street, getting out on the NW corner (I've repeated so many times in my head so I wouldn't get lost). And suddenly I was in the famous SoHo on Broadway. Even he said "Oh this is cool" & he has lived here almost his whole life. Both stops were right next to my building.
I went upstairs to the third floor. The building was really nice...hardword floors, high ceilings, bright lights...I loved it already.
When I got there, everyone introduced themselves. They asked if I had trouble finding it, and I joked no, just had trouble getting there. I think I am the only one not from the city. Though not a big suite it was very sheek. Everyone was young and obviously in style. I wondered how they perceived me but I knew I would be judged by my work ethic more then anything. That "not a city girl in the NY way but in the Miami way" started to sink in but I shook it off. I was shown all the new and old collections, which were for press only, and which were for sales. They showed me where things were, etc and we talked a bit. First days are always weird, no matter were you work, but everyone seemed nice. Mia, the women who hired me and who I had communicated with, had made a bread pudding and brought it in for everyone. As stupid as this may sound, it was comforting. It showed that everyone was somewhat close and thoughtful of one another. After all it was a small office, no more then 10 people in there at a time. And it tasted fantastic!
Then I got to work. And didn't stop until I left. They had me begin by securing the labels on one the show brands they represented: Pointer. Stapling the labels into the shoes was not as easy as it originally sounded. Afterward, they had me prep the appointment folders for Dunderdon. I put business cards and collection sheets in each folder. Then when I finished that, they got me started on prepping mailings for different stores. They would be sending out look books, order forms, and business cards to stores across the country and in the area. Once I was done with the first set, they let me go to lunch. Around that time, another new intern came in from NYU. She was very friendly and were both were obviously happy we weren't the only newbies.
I walked around for a bit and didn't find too many places to eat on the main road (Broadway) and I didn't want to venture to far off on my first day. I found the SoHo Cafe about two blocks away and on my budget, ordered a burger (which was huge) for $6.50 and a V8 for $2.50. A $10 treat for lunch; from now on it'd have to be cheaper or I'd have to bring lunch. I had already spent $20 on a subway card. Like I said...I'm an everyday girl on a everyday budget. =)
Once I got back around 2:15pm I finished the last of the mailings. Then I was sent to deliver the local ones to four stores within walking distance. After the first one, I didn't realize I was on the right street to head to the next one. I ended up walking about six blocks in the wrong direction to walk six blocks back, and basically make a big circle. I couldn't help but laugh at myself and take it as a learning experience. I even started to recognize streets my cousin had taken me to about a year before. I made all the deliveries but my feet were freezing and I was tired. One guy in a store wasn't very nice in helping me, I felt like flicking him off but just said thanks and went to the barely visible store politely. Another store was under the actual building and I had to search for a stairway.
Once I got back it was time to prep for the Karen Walker show. We had to re-stuff the invitations to the right side and then stuff what was left. The invitations were girly but unique, with a sqaure shape. The task became a bit mindless after awhile and we were finally let go around 6:15pm. I was beat. I found out that the show was on Valentine's Day, which though exciting, hampered any romantic possibilities.
My first time alone on the train was pretty quick and easy. I had memorized which way to go after hearing my uncle repeat it to me about 20 times. The R was PACKED, but once we went uptown it lessened. It took about 45mins. And you do see crazy things on there. I wished other places I had lived had such organized and well timed public transportation. I remember not having a car in college and having to ride the bus anywhere took forever. An hour just to go a few miles. This was actually relieving.
Once I got above ground I called my uncle to pick me up at the station. He DJ's a Latin night at a club and informed me he would be putting me to work. My body and feet weaped but I knew I needed the money and it was generous of him to think of me. They order food every Thursday and I had a healthy and delicious share of pepper steak and yellow rice once I got to the club. Actually, a double sharing. Then I helped them sign up people for their email list for about two hours. By 10:30 I wanted to pass out and he took me home.
I finally showered and this time had no problems falling asleep. Today I didn't roll out of bed til noon. No internship until next Tuesday (I work 2-3 times a week). I spent all day today joining networks and applying for part time jobs. This is "The City" on a hustle.
I had no idea what to wear. They said casual but no sneakers. So I was supposed to stay warm, look cute, but not too laid back...I changed my outfit twice. I settled on skinny jeans, a wood green short sweater and black ballerina flats. I decided not to straighten my hair and put the natural curls up with my baby hump. I hoped it would pass cause I thought I looked cute...but who knows with the fashion world...
When we got to the car (my uncle wanted to accompany me the first day which I beyond appreciated), the car would not start (he had left the light on the night before). He started freaking out and called a friend. The whole ordeal lasted about 20-30mins. But I stayed calm, stuff like this happened to me all the time. My ex always teased me about leaving my lights on and killing my battery. I figured it would make a good story.
The story got better when we got to the bridge leading to the trains and it was up. My uncle insisted that they were never up doing rush hour because it backs up traffic, which it did very successfully. He freaked some more after waiting 5mins and pulled out of the lane and in the opposite direction to go around another way. It was about 9:15am. I was supposed to be there at 10.
We finally got to the station and on the train at 9:30am. He couldn't believe how calm I was in comparison to how frantic he was. "It's your first day, I can't believe this is happening." But I figured they would understand.
We took the 6 to 125th, got on the express (4 or 5) to 14th, then the R to Prince Street, getting out on the NW corner (I've repeated so many times in my head so I wouldn't get lost). And suddenly I was in the famous SoHo on Broadway. Even he said "Oh this is cool" & he has lived here almost his whole life. Both stops were right next to my building.
I went upstairs to the third floor. The building was really nice...hardword floors, high ceilings, bright lights...I loved it already.
When I got there, everyone introduced themselves. They asked if I had trouble finding it, and I joked no, just had trouble getting there. I think I am the only one not from the city. Though not a big suite it was very sheek. Everyone was young and obviously in style. I wondered how they perceived me but I knew I would be judged by my work ethic more then anything. That "not a city girl in the NY way but in the Miami way" started to sink in but I shook it off. I was shown all the new and old collections, which were for press only, and which were for sales. They showed me where things were, etc and we talked a bit. First days are always weird, no matter were you work, but everyone seemed nice. Mia, the women who hired me and who I had communicated with, had made a bread pudding and brought it in for everyone. As stupid as this may sound, it was comforting. It showed that everyone was somewhat close and thoughtful of one another. After all it was a small office, no more then 10 people in there at a time. And it tasted fantastic!
Then I got to work. And didn't stop until I left. They had me begin by securing the labels on one the show brands they represented: Pointer. Stapling the labels into the shoes was not as easy as it originally sounded. Afterward, they had me prep the appointment folders for Dunderdon. I put business cards and collection sheets in each folder. Then when I finished that, they got me started on prepping mailings for different stores. They would be sending out look books, order forms, and business cards to stores across the country and in the area. Once I was done with the first set, they let me go to lunch. Around that time, another new intern came in from NYU. She was very friendly and were both were obviously happy we weren't the only newbies.
I walked around for a bit and didn't find too many places to eat on the main road (Broadway) and I didn't want to venture to far off on my first day. I found the SoHo Cafe about two blocks away and on my budget, ordered a burger (which was huge) for $6.50 and a V8 for $2.50. A $10 treat for lunch; from now on it'd have to be cheaper or I'd have to bring lunch. I had already spent $20 on a subway card. Like I said...I'm an everyday girl on a everyday budget. =)
Once I got back around 2:15pm I finished the last of the mailings. Then I was sent to deliver the local ones to four stores within walking distance. After the first one, I didn't realize I was on the right street to head to the next one. I ended up walking about six blocks in the wrong direction to walk six blocks back, and basically make a big circle. I couldn't help but laugh at myself and take it as a learning experience. I even started to recognize streets my cousin had taken me to about a year before. I made all the deliveries but my feet were freezing and I was tired. One guy in a store wasn't very nice in helping me, I felt like flicking him off but just said thanks and went to the barely visible store politely. Another store was under the actual building and I had to search for a stairway.
Once I got back it was time to prep for the Karen Walker show. We had to re-stuff the invitations to the right side and then stuff what was left. The invitations were girly but unique, with a sqaure shape. The task became a bit mindless after awhile and we were finally let go around 6:15pm. I was beat. I found out that the show was on Valentine's Day, which though exciting, hampered any romantic possibilities.
My first time alone on the train was pretty quick and easy. I had memorized which way to go after hearing my uncle repeat it to me about 20 times. The R was PACKED, but once we went uptown it lessened. It took about 45mins. And you do see crazy things on there. I wished other places I had lived had such organized and well timed public transportation. I remember not having a car in college and having to ride the bus anywhere took forever. An hour just to go a few miles. This was actually relieving.
Once I got above ground I called my uncle to pick me up at the station. He DJ's a Latin night at a club and informed me he would be putting me to work. My body and feet weaped but I knew I needed the money and it was generous of him to think of me. They order food every Thursday and I had a healthy and delicious share of pepper steak and yellow rice once I got to the club. Actually, a double sharing. Then I helped them sign up people for their email list for about two hours. By 10:30 I wanted to pass out and he took me home.
I finally showered and this time had no problems falling asleep. Today I didn't roll out of bed til noon. No internship until next Tuesday (I work 2-3 times a week). I spent all day today joining networks and applying for part time jobs. This is "The City" on a hustle.
Arriving in NY
It started to hit me when I looked out the window and saw the Statue of Liberty & Downtown NYC in the airplane window. I had been to NY almost every year to visit family but it took on new meaning. It began to feel like a place of opportunity, not just admiration.
The lower we got, I noticed the blanket of white everywhere. Snow. Not palm trees or turquoise beaches. It also hit me that I'm going to be colder then I have ever been in my whole life.
My uncle picked me up excited to see me & my first and only wool coat. Though a graduate & with my issues about how a college degree still to this day has not landed me a job offer, I wore my FSU sweat shirt underneath proudly. It had been a conversation starter with strangers in line for coffee in the past and I hoped it may bring me luck here too. I had already found the alum club for the area too.
We dropped off my stuff at his house and he assured me all day, that no matter what I needed I was at home. He drove me around the bus routes I would be taking and the train stops (the six train, move over J.Lo!). Then we went to the supermarket to pick up a few things. I finally came home and unpacked my stuff. I was excited but tired. I could not help but feel like a bit of a nomad; my apartment in Tallahassee, my parents and dog in South Florida, my opportunity in NY. I felt scattered.
The first night was tough. I wasn't used to the sounds the heater made through the walls. The ticking clock drove me so crazy I had to pull it off the wall. My dog wasn't at my feet...it was different. The last time I looked at my phone was around 1:30am; soon after I'm assuming my thoughts stopped racing and I fell asleep.
The lower we got, I noticed the blanket of white everywhere. Snow. Not palm trees or turquoise beaches. It also hit me that I'm going to be colder then I have ever been in my whole life.
My uncle picked me up excited to see me & my first and only wool coat. Though a graduate & with my issues about how a college degree still to this day has not landed me a job offer, I wore my FSU sweat shirt underneath proudly. It had been a conversation starter with strangers in line for coffee in the past and I hoped it may bring me luck here too. I had already found the alum club for the area too.
We dropped off my stuff at his house and he assured me all day, that no matter what I needed I was at home. He drove me around the bus routes I would be taking and the train stops (the six train, move over J.Lo!). Then we went to the supermarket to pick up a few things. I finally came home and unpacked my stuff. I was excited but tired. I could not help but feel like a bit of a nomad; my apartment in Tallahassee, my parents and dog in South Florida, my opportunity in NY. I felt scattered.
The first night was tough. I wasn't used to the sounds the heater made through the walls. The ticking clock drove me so crazy I had to pull it off the wall. My dog wasn't at my feet...it was different. The last time I looked at my phone was around 1:30am; soon after I'm assuming my thoughts stopped racing and I fell asleep.
How I found it...
When I told people about getting an internship in NYC, so many people asked me how I got the position. My answer was quite simple: I looked. I looked and looked and looked, hours upon hours until my eyes where bloodshot from staring at an LCD screen. I had thought that my dream of working and living in NY were to remain only that, a dream. What was the likelihood of a girl from South Florida who went to school in Tallahassee of landing that spot? Well it happened and it did because I never stopped trying.
I had always had an interest in fashion. I'm a junky for the TV shows; Project Runway, America's Next Top Model, The Hills/The City (I know, kill me), What Not to Wear, How Do I Look?, etc. I always had the desire to participate but did not feel as though I "belonged" in that world. After all, though I loved to admire, I was your everyday girl on an everyday budget. I shopped at Marshall's. Big names were a treat and only on the clearance/sales rack. I was okay with that world; it taught me discipline and the difference between necessity and wants. I wouldn't say I envied the label bearing sorority girls (no hate on them, I'm in one to..Theta Nu Xi =) ) on campus (we came from two different worlds) but I always thought "man it must be nice." I remember having a class with one girl who did an internship with Teen Vogue; she was such a bimbo I couldn't understand how she landed it. "Must be nice" I would say and continued on with the day.
That interest, one night after watching some show, led me to search. I had just graduated from FSU in December and had been job searching over the holidays, and decided, why not look for internships? The truth is, the market is horrible and very few places are willing to pay you for the experience they expect you to already have (especially in public relations). It's unfortunate that so many schools think that their name will get you where you think you need to be, and my college (with their "limited access" program) did to. Interning wasn't required and they didn't push me to do it. My last semester I did anyway, with a radio company doing marketing and promotions. It was this position and not my degree that EVERY interviewer asked me about. "What did you do? What did you learn?" It was only after I had walked the stage that I realized the most important thing college didn't give me: experience. My thousands of dollars of debt was really only a check mark on a requirement list. I needed experience.
So I put aside all my inhibitions, the little things in the back of my head, and googled "fashion internships." I found that there are tons of career specific search engines. 'Why didn't anyone ever tell me about this?' I would think. Years of college and they only taught me theories and ideas, facts and numbers, not where to look and what you needed to get where you wanted...I settled on freefashioninternships.com. It was a play ground of interest for me. But almost all were in NY. Seeing all the listings made a desire burn in me. 'I really want to do this' I thought. So I started applying to everything I saw. EVERYTHING. And with that only two or three called/contacted me.
I knew that I didn't know all the lingo of the fashion world but I also knew my desire would get me something. I was also reading a book about the power of positive thinking and attraction. If I believe it and keep fighting it will come at the right time. And it did, much sooner then I expected.
I got offered an internship with the Press Office Ltd in NYC on Jan. 6th (a month after applying, you need to patient and plan in advance). They were a fashion public relations agency in need of interns to assist in upkeeping the showroom, daily activities, and working fashion week! Suddenly I had what I wanted but now I didn't know what to do with it. I was excited, shocked, and terrified at once. Here was my chance, now a reality. It happened VERY FAST.
My situation was difficult. Like I said, I'm just your everyday girl. I had supported myself through college, still had an apartment and was unemployed. I had a lot of things I had to get in order before I left. My parents were concerned about money (though I would be staying with uncle in the Bronx and commuting to the city), about my apartment ($400 a month in rent), and how I would do it all. To be honest, I didn't know, but I knew it would work itself out somehow. They offered to take care of my dog for me for the time of the internship, even though they thought I had failed to plan and was jumping the gun. But I didn't care (though that sounds somewhat harsh), I knew I could not pass this up. I had never lived in the cold (I'm a Puerto Rican Florida girl!), so coats/long johns were not in my vocabulary. My mom fronted me the money for a coat (she couldn't let me leave w/o one, she was born and raised in NY) and a few small things. I also cleaned out my apartment in Tallahassee, sold and got rid of some stuff, paid as many bills as I could, and made plans for NYC. Luckily, my mom is a retired airline employee and got me a dirt cheap non-rev ticket. I knew I would have to get a part time job and/or sell some furniture in my apartment or sublease. But I knew everything would fall into place because I felt I was doing the right thing. On the way to the airport, for reasons I cannot explain, a women was on the sidewalk of an intersection was dressed as the statue of liberty. I wish I was joking b/c it made no sense whatsoever. It gave me and my parents a good laugh. They were lightening up to the idea of what I was doing and I got a sense that NY was where I needed to be. I arrived in NYC on Jan 22nd with only about $100 to my name and a passion to make it that no one could hamper.
I had always had an interest in fashion. I'm a junky for the TV shows; Project Runway, America's Next Top Model, The Hills/The City (I know, kill me), What Not to Wear, How Do I Look?, etc. I always had the desire to participate but did not feel as though I "belonged" in that world. After all, though I loved to admire, I was your everyday girl on an everyday budget. I shopped at Marshall's. Big names were a treat and only on the clearance/sales rack. I was okay with that world; it taught me discipline and the difference between necessity and wants. I wouldn't say I envied the label bearing sorority girls (no hate on them, I'm in one to..Theta Nu Xi =) ) on campus (we came from two different worlds) but I always thought "man it must be nice." I remember having a class with one girl who did an internship with Teen Vogue; she was such a bimbo I couldn't understand how she landed it. "Must be nice" I would say and continued on with the day.
That interest, one night after watching some show, led me to search. I had just graduated from FSU in December and had been job searching over the holidays, and decided, why not look for internships? The truth is, the market is horrible and very few places are willing to pay you for the experience they expect you to already have (especially in public relations). It's unfortunate that so many schools think that their name will get you where you think you need to be, and my college (with their "limited access" program) did to. Interning wasn't required and they didn't push me to do it. My last semester I did anyway, with a radio company doing marketing and promotions. It was this position and not my degree that EVERY interviewer asked me about. "What did you do? What did you learn?" It was only after I had walked the stage that I realized the most important thing college didn't give me: experience. My thousands of dollars of debt was really only a check mark on a requirement list. I needed experience.
So I put aside all my inhibitions, the little things in the back of my head, and googled "fashion internships." I found that there are tons of career specific search engines. 'Why didn't anyone ever tell me about this?' I would think. Years of college and they only taught me theories and ideas, facts and numbers, not where to look and what you needed to get where you wanted...I settled on freefashioninternships.com. It was a play ground of interest for me. But almost all were in NY. Seeing all the listings made a desire burn in me. 'I really want to do this' I thought. So I started applying to everything I saw. EVERYTHING. And with that only two or three called/contacted me.
I knew that I didn't know all the lingo of the fashion world but I also knew my desire would get me something. I was also reading a book about the power of positive thinking and attraction. If I believe it and keep fighting it will come at the right time. And it did, much sooner then I expected.
I got offered an internship with the Press Office Ltd in NYC on Jan. 6th (a month after applying, you need to patient and plan in advance). They were a fashion public relations agency in need of interns to assist in upkeeping the showroom, daily activities, and working fashion week! Suddenly I had what I wanted but now I didn't know what to do with it. I was excited, shocked, and terrified at once. Here was my chance, now a reality. It happened VERY FAST.
My situation was difficult. Like I said, I'm just your everyday girl. I had supported myself through college, still had an apartment and was unemployed. I had a lot of things I had to get in order before I left. My parents were concerned about money (though I would be staying with uncle in the Bronx and commuting to the city), about my apartment ($400 a month in rent), and how I would do it all. To be honest, I didn't know, but I knew it would work itself out somehow. They offered to take care of my dog for me for the time of the internship, even though they thought I had failed to plan and was jumping the gun. But I didn't care (though that sounds somewhat harsh), I knew I could not pass this up. I had never lived in the cold (I'm a Puerto Rican Florida girl!), so coats/long johns were not in my vocabulary. My mom fronted me the money for a coat (she couldn't let me leave w/o one, she was born and raised in NY) and a few small things. I also cleaned out my apartment in Tallahassee, sold and got rid of some stuff, paid as many bills as I could, and made plans for NYC. Luckily, my mom is a retired airline employee and got me a dirt cheap non-rev ticket. I knew I would have to get a part time job and/or sell some furniture in my apartment or sublease. But I knew everything would fall into place because I felt I was doing the right thing. On the way to the airport, for reasons I cannot explain, a women was on the sidewalk of an intersection was dressed as the statue of liberty. I wish I was joking b/c it made no sense whatsoever. It gave me and my parents a good laugh. They were lightening up to the idea of what I was doing and I got a sense that NY was where I needed to be. I arrived in NYC on Jan 22nd with only about $100 to my name and a passion to make it that no one could hamper.
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