I was responsible for researching and drafting press releases, talking points, newsletter profiles, Facebook status updates and other PR-related copy; proofing and editing copy; scheduling and coordinating media interviews; escorting media through the Detroit Zoo during video/photo shoots; assisting with commercial and motion picture film shoots and special events; updating website and mobile app content; and performing other PR-related assignments. As an intern, I worked closely with the Communications Director and other interns while learning valuable skills needed in the public relations workforce.

Our motto at Cascabel Ventures is that the guest always comes first, and I take that very seriously. When I am working in the office my job is to answer the phones for both restaurants, plan and confirm special events and reservations, explain restaurant policies to guests, write out the daily floor plan and schedule for each position, and coordinate between both restaurants on busy weekends. When I work on the floor as a hostess I work very hard to give each guest the best first impression of the restaurant. My goal is to meet guest’s needs as fast as possible so they may enjoy the optimal experience at Mani or Isalita. Working for an independently-owned restaurant group has taught me the value of earnest customer service, the importance of good planning, and how persuasive well thought-out marketing can be.

Working closely with a PhD student I learned the basics of paleontological field research in the Rainbow Basin area of the Mojave Desert. Each day I developed skills in measuring strata, collecting phytolith and fossil samples, labeling specimens, and basic mapping. This field work will assist paleoenvironmental research at the University of Michigan.

The University of Michigan bought the North Campus Research Complex from the pharmaceutical company Pfizer, and there are roughly twenty buildings in the complex. As new employees and researchers transferred from other departments, our job as receptionists was to answer their questions about locating faculty, offer directions to entrances or conference rooms, answer phone calls pertaining to deliveries, and be able to concisely explain where specific buildings were on a map. I was responsible for a minimal amount of building security, and I was in contact with security guards every day. I was also responsible for keeping a log of university van rentals and returns.