As my time at the virtual version of 890 Broadway comes to a close, I find myself grateful for the opportunity to make a difference at such a pivotal moment. This year has been a time of growth and challenges, but ABT takes it in stride. With this growth, I learned some lessons working virtually. I have got 3 pieces of advice: 1) you are your greatest advocate, 2) overcommunicate, and 3) be enthusiastic.
For the first lesson, it is always important to remember that if you want more projects, can handle more, or have ideas then you need to be the one to bring them up to your supervisor/department. Everyone is very busy, so make sure to be your own advocate to be heard. ABT is a collaborative environment and values people who can step up and fill a need. Advocate for yourself. In my experience at ABT, if I wanted more projects, I made sure my supervisor knew where I was on current projects and my capacity for more. This brings me to the second lesson, overcommunicate. In a virtual world, it can be very difficult to learn the culture of an organization. If you are unsure about how something is done or want clarity on a subject, just ask. If you have the capacity to take on more, communicate that to your supervisor. Lastly, be enthusiastic in all that you take on. It can be hard to maintain an enthusiastic demeanor virtually, but if you can, it will transform your experience.
My supervisor during my time at ABT was Jon Haddorff in the Major Gifts department. I had such a great experience being an intern in this department and loved being able to work with Jon. He is open to suggestions and lets interns have many opportunities to grow. I come from a program background and so very much appreciated his teaching me how the Major Gifts department worked, while also allowing me room to grow and take part in projects.
Hopefully, ABT will be able to go back to 890 Broadway soon, but in the meantime, I have found these lessons to be useful and adaptable to both virtual and in-person positions.
Sabrina Kesler
Major Gifts Intern
Fall 2020
abtinterns 
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