On the train home, I call my mom. She asks, “Did you learn anything today?” I say yes. But what I really learned is that being an intern isn’t about grand projects or corner offices. It’s about showing up early, asking dumb questions, and learning that “urgent” usually isn’t.

I send the formatted table. The reply comes in six minutes: “Thanks.” No exclamation point. I stare at the screen. Was that good? Was it bad? “Thanks” is the most dangerous word in the corporate world.

Tomorrow, I’ll figure out the water tank.

12:45 PM

8:47 AM

The senior manager walks by my desk. I smile. She nods. That nod will fuel my self-esteem for the next three days.