Office politics were aplenty, even though they tried very hard to keep it discrete. Yet, I could feel the underlying tensions amidst the quiet. Within my unit, arrows flew to and fro above heads during meetings. People were quick in correcting what they previously said with this particular phrase, "No, I didn't say it that way. How can you put words into my mouth?" I must say that this is an isolated case as I saw how other units were so bonded and the notion of 'working as one' was extremely evident. Nevertheless, being situated in such a unit was enough for me to understand that whatever work you do, no matter how shitty, the people working with you make a hell lot of difference. No wonder turnover rates are sky-high.

Never mind the perm staff. The rest of the interns gave me a damn good lesson too. Behind all the weeks of talks, smiles and laughter, when I needed their joint help, I was faced with total rejection. Imagine the immense disappointment I felt AT THAT MOMENT. You're being thrown into deep cold icy water and you got to do all you can to remain positive, support yourself, get onto shore alive, in complete numbness. Some felt guilty and tried offering their help thereafter. Yea, thanks but no thanks. Some things done/said are never meant to be taken back.

I relied on my inner strength and positivism and that brought me through the entire ad-hoc project. It was indeed a blessing in disguise as it became a project that I could claim full ownership for. I gained visibility in the office as people could put a name to the work I did and in turn, showered me with lots of credit and praises. I also earned myself a thanks-giving lunch from the Director which is on the way in September. No pain, no gain. How true.

Key take-away from this internship: Attitude is everything. 我要靠自己的勇气面对所有的问题。