Ah, filing, every intern’s favorite past-time. It is a mind-numbing, seemingly unending task. At a big company, the first time you find the filing cabinets can feel a bit like that scene from Bruce Almighty.
For a long time, and especially as an intern, I loathed filing. Not only for the previously stated reasons but also because I thought it was busy work. While sometimes it was busy work, filing also allowed me to better understand the company I was working for.
Thankfully, I still work with that company. Now, I can usually find any folder with ease. While this in itself isn’t exciting, the fact that I can then gain information about donor or project history is.
I certainly overlooked this the first time I interned. I didn’t realize just how valuable this information was, and how much I would depend upon it in the future.
Often, because there were fewer files than minutes in my shift, I would spend a decent amount of time looking through the details and history of projects or donors that interested me. Only later did I find out that this was the hope and intention of giving me the task.
Fast forwarding 3 years later (where did the time go?) I now regularly rely on this information to more efficiently do my job and have a better reference for what has previously been done. Although this is an experience thing, I wish this had been explained to me in the past.
Especially to a 17-year-old, filing is the worst. It somehow becomes even more deplorable when you believe it to be busy work. Admittedly, knowing the true intention wouldn’t have helped, but may have at least made it more tolerable.
Looking back, this is the second reason why the task was valuable. Almost any job, regardless of sector, has its boring parts. Filing is a good way to train interns how to complete the necessary evils without complaining (too much, sorry Max) to do the cool parts of their jobs.
Lastly, filing enforces organization. For the chronically disorganized (I can find everything in my room contrary to popular belief…) it teaches a valuable skill. Although I do better with a bit of clutter, I’ve come to appreciate the value of knowing where things are so I can quickly locate them.
I find being able to locate papers is especially useful when your boss needs that paper right then. In my limited working world experience, keeping your boss happy is a good thing.
Filing is a big, ugly monster that likely won’t go away anytime soon. Despite its often undesired presence, there are some benefits for interns and professionals alike. So, I’d like to finish with a small apology.
Dear Filing,
I’m sorry my entitled attitude made me hurl many unsavory adjectives in your direction. I have come to appreciate your unique strengths and benefits. I will no longer say these things about you and will acknowledge the value of our time together. I hope you can forgive me.
Sincerely,
ApprenticeAdult
Apprentice Adult 