Morgan Reynolds is a senior on the UGA Gymnastics team. She is majoring in Consumer Journalism had the opportunity to participate in an internship with Jennifer Westmoreland & Associates during the summer of 2016.
Being a gymnast for almost eighteen years has taught me several things–discipline, commitment, work ethic, etc. However, with the “real world” on the horizon, I felt as though I was inadequately prepared, lacking the necessary experience and tools to thrive after athletics. Like many other student-athletes, I had never had time for a real job…gymnastics was my job. As senior year was quickly approaching, I decided to seek out summer internship opportunities in hopes of suppressing my “real world” anxieties. I began looking for real estate companies in the Athens area. I came across Jennifer Westmoreland & Associates, one of the most successful real estate teams in the Greater Athens area. After searching the company’s website, I did not see any indication that they were hiring interns. I decided to contact the company and see if they would allow me to intern with them for the summer. Shortly after I sent an email, I got a phone call from one of the agents. She seemed excited for me to join their team for the summer.
While the majority of my responsibilities were easy, being in that environment gave me great insight into life as a real estate agent. I had my own desk and computer located within ears distance of all phone conversations–needless to say, I learned a lot. Susan, the transaction coordinator, taught me the ins and outs of closing contracts, negotiations, etc.
Through my internship experience, I learned a lot about real estate, but I learned even more about myself. I am confident that the life lessons and skills I have learned through gymnastics will translate into success beyond athletics.
I would encourage anyone to pursue an internship opportunity. Find a company that you would want to work for and apply for an internship! If that company does not seem to have any opportunities, create one and just ask!
