By Kylan Xie
As I end my internship at Madden, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on the key lessons I’ve learned throughout this experience. It’s been a journey of growth, both professionally and personally, and I’m grateful for all the opportunities I’ve had to learn and develop in such a dynamic and supportive environment. Here are the three biggest takeaways that I’ll carry with me into my future career:
1. Embrace Learning
Starting a new job, especially in an unfamiliar industry or role, can be intimidating. The mindset that I was here to learn and grow helped me build the confidence to dive into new challenges, seek feedback, and trust that with time, I would become more efficient and capable in my work.
One of the most valuable experiences was being able to attend media events and sit in on media training sessions. These out-of-office days were not only fun and something different, I could also see how a genuine desire to upskill and learn can shape your confidence. Sitting in on media training was an insightful time, watching others establish themselves in front of a camera allowed me to appreciate the importance of effective communication and public speaking. This internship has taught me to embrace every learning opportunity, and I’m incredibly thankful to the team at Madden for their investment in my personal and professional development.
2. Be Confident in Your Communication
Another key lesson I’ve learned is the importance of strong communication skills. Throughout my internship, I grew increasingly confident in my ability to express myself clearly, whether through written work or in-person interactions. As someone who’s naturally a bit reserved, this was an area where I initially struggled, but the encouragement and feedback from those around me from my team helped me a lot. I’ve come to realise that confidence in communication doesn’t just come from knowing the material, but from feeling comfortable enough to engage with others, share ideas, and ask for help when needed. This experience has given me the tools to not only present myself more effectively but also to listen actively, which is just as important in building strong relationships.
3. A Positive Work Culture Makes All the Difference
Lastly, I’ve learned that the culture of a workplace can significantly influence your personal and professional growth. One of the things I’m most grateful for during my time at Madden is the positive and encouraging work environment.
In the months I was interning, going on coffee breaks and having team lunches together helped not only my comfortability with the team but also my navigation of corporate relationships. I quickly realised how essential a supportive team culture is in fostering productivity, creativity, and overall well-being. The Madden team has been incredibly welcoming, and I’m leaving this internship with not just new skills but also a deeper appreciation for the value of working in a supportive space.
In Conclusion
Interning at Madden has been a fulfilling and eye-opening experience. I’ve grown not only in my technical abilities but also in my confidence, communication skills, and understanding of the importance of a positive work culture. I’m deeply grateful to the Madden team for their continuous support, and I’m excited to apply what I’ve learned as I continue to grow in my career.