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06.25
Diary of an Intern: Starter Kits & Other Expensive Information
I recently stumbled (by way of this blog) upon a webpage that sold starter kits designed to inform, inspire, and connect young people new to the communications field. The starter kits are helpful as they contain books, articles, video interviews, CDs, and/or writer’s block tools.
Some organizations can take the hit, but the price tag is a little hefty for any college student/recent college grad at $2,995 per year. While I am sure it is worth the money and a near necessity, like Ramen noodles and Forever 21, I don’t know many college students/recent grads who can afford it. Students are more worried about landing a job to pay off school loans in this rough economy than spending precious cash on expensive tools.
In an attempt to lessen the three grand credit card bill, I have come up with a starter kit of my own.
I have been very blessed to have top professors and mingle with innovators in the field. I have also had the opportunity to spend some time (as either an intern or by taking the “fly on the wall” approach) at a few of the best firms observing great minds in the field. Of course, they will never compare to those who sit in the vicinity of my desk (shameless plug, can you blame me?).
My mentors have been very willing to pass along a few of their treasured books that have informed, inspired and connected me personally as well as professionally. As an avid reader and hopeless-forever student, I have compiled a list of a few books that I keep on my not-so-dusty bookshelf.
The Medici Effect by Frans Johansson is all about finding intersections for new ideas. I am still impressed by the hotel built without A/C.
The Art of Innovation by Tom Kelley gives strategies used at IDEO to create. It’s more than just thinking outside the box.
Ten Faces of Innovation by Tom Kelley is about what part you play in innovation and how all parts are necessary for a successful idea.
Seducing The Boys Club by Nina DiSesa is about one woman’s trek to the top of the largest advertising firm in the world, and how she has stayed there.
AP Stylebook by The Associated Press is the communications Bible. ‘Nuff said.
Feel free to leave a comment with your favorite communications books. Happy reading!
scott.carter
I can't see a college student being able to float that bill either. Once you get your first job, I think there's enough seasoned talent and free mentoring to last you a long time. You've listed some good reads. I've read Ten Faces of Innovation and would recommend it too.
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