Be aware that as an intern part of your job is to take the place of others when needed. This can work in your favor if it is a job you desire or work against you if it is a job you do not want.
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Photographer
June 2018 • Camden, NJ
What I liked
The Adventure Aquarium is an interesting business to seek employment. I enjoy getting to learn new things about marine life all the time. I'm studying mathematics so it was nice to step away and look at something else for a while. My department has some really amazing people too who are dedicated to their work.
What I wish was different
I wish they would stop messing with the way the commission works. I understand why it needed to change from paid-per-photo to a more sales based commission but the way it's set up now is completely unfair. It doesn't matter how great of a day you personally had. No one makes commission until we hit a certain revenue and on slow days it can be really hard to convince someone to purchase a $30 photo of something they already have a picture of on their phone.
Advice
Communication skills are very important. I've never been much of a talker but when you're the first person a guest sees when visiting the aquarium, you learn to get good at small talk and making sure everyone walks in with a smile. Developing my skills in communication have made me one of the most approachable employees on the floor. Body language is also key. Something else I've learned is that there's usually a set way to do things, but there's also exceptions. Not everything has to be done by the book. Get creative.
