Camila Rivera-Garcia
The Start-up World
By Camila Rivera-Garcia
Spring 2015
I am currently working in Grid Waste, a start-up company that helps waste generators find the best prices for all types of waste disposal. It was established in 2014 and has between 1-10 employees. In my position in Grid Waste Content Marketing and Social Media Intern, I have six deliverables every week, whether newsletters, infographics, articles, blog, or social media content. When finding internships, I applied to many non-profits and only one start-up. When the time came for me to choose between a well-known think tank and a start-up company, I decided that the start-up was the right fit for me.
My Office. Photo taken by Chelsea St. Onge-May
Working for a start-up has definitely been challenging, but it has also been one of the best learning experiences. On my first day of work, I did not know what to expect. As soon as I arrived at the Wonder Bread Factory, I knew I had made the right choice. My boss, the CEO of Grid Waste Mr. Lunn, and I work in the DC office, while all other employees work remotely. Our office is so small that there is only space for us two and another important member, the dog. Unlike other internships, I do not work in a cubical. The office has an open floor plan and very informal environment which creates a work environment where everyone enjoys coming to work.
Compared to my last internship at the American Red Cross, this internship has given me the opportunity to work side-by-side with the CEO who has gradually turned into a mentor and great teacher. When interning for a start-up, I can assure you that the amount of data-entry, coffee fetching, and organizing you do is close to zero. For this reason, you will be challenged daily and assigned a lot of work. Most students do not consider interning for a start-up, but I highly recommend it—you will be able to put into practice what you have learned in the classroom. Many individuals do not consider working for a start-up because of the lack of job security. This can definitely be a risk, but as I was taught in the Questrom School of Business, with great risks come great rewards.
If you are interested in start-ups, here are a few friendly tips to keep in mind:
Attire: although most for-profit companies require business casual attire, the majority of start-ups allow employees to dress in casual attire. Do not assume that all start-up companies are the same. In my internship, I was asked to dress business casual.
Work-load: interns are usually assigned a heavy workload. Manage your time effectively and do not be afraid to ask questions when needed. Remember that the work you are assigned really helps shape the company when it is at such an early stage.
Structure: recently established start-ups have a very loose organizational structure and informal communication. Do not be alarmed if you receive an e-mail directly from the CEO.
Supervision: since most start-ups have a loose organizational structure and few employees, you will most likely have very low supervision. Take advantage of this and meet all deadlines. Prove to them that you can be productive without constant supervision.
Co-workers: when working for a start-up, you will be surrounded by passionate, creative, and intelligent individuals. This is an opportunity for you to meet people and expand your network.
If you have any questions or just want to chat about start-up companies and the DC program feel free to contact me at cami3018@bu.edu. I would be happy to help!
Camila is a junior studying Business Administration & Management (2016) and interning at Grid Waste.
