Study Area of Focus: Business and Art

Siyolo Ndika
Major: Management
City of Austin- ABIA
Log # 1
Time Frame: 9/15/2008 10/15/2014
Hours worked in log period: 65
Tasks and projects completed:
Drafted and finalized a technical writing sample to be included in the official Art
Coordinator Handbook. The area of focus consisted of the instructions and
process of installing displays with title card holders system for each exhibit.
o After numerous attempts to find and stick with a consistent process to
make and install title cards and placards, I was given the task to create a
technical writing sample documenting our process and final result. The
document was included in the updated Exhibit Coordinators Handbook
apart of the Exhibit and Supplies Appendix. This assignment was good
because it provided an experience in the technical writing aspect of
performing business.
Uninstalling East Terminal Gallery and transitioning to newly installed exhibit
o Artists of closing exhibit meet with us to pick up artwork the day before
the new exhibit is to be installed. A quick fixing up of the exhibit included
filling wall holes, sweeping floor, dusting, and painting, all done in
preparation of a new show. A week prior to uninstalling Austin Fiber Arts
display, I drafted and designed the title cards for the incoming exhibitors,
The Austin Calligraphy Society. When the day of installing came, I printed
the cards, cut them out and inserted them into title card holders according
to the artists layout. I as well had to change out the old exhibit poster for
the new one to be re-hung in the hallway heading to the gallery.
Projects in process:
Assist and participate in the involvement and overseeing of the new international
corridor apart of the Airports expansion project
o This new partnership with CONRAC building contractors and Airport
Administration has been an eventful experience. With renovations and
construction over half way done, a group of architects, contractors, plant
operators, public relations, and individuals from the art department
organized a walk through to assess the progress. There will be two
permanent artwork installed in the new corridor that is being managed in
anticipation for the upcoming install date.
o The walk through gave me insight into what it takes and is involved with
managing a project on a grand scale. The construction expansion has been
in the works for years between members of City Development. To see the
project moving forward has taught me things about compiling and
completing projects I may be assigned to. Such a large project required the

help of individuals from various departments to come together to set goals

and be effective with adhering to the goals for the overall plan.
Continue the research and compilation of information for the case study
o This project is one loaded with a hefty amount of information to be sorted
through. I have come to a half-way point of laying out the details into
organized sections created on Microsoft Access software.
o This project has marketing and management components that can prove
relevant and a good reference for the department to assess itself. Skills
developed/enhanced: organization, computer efficiency, researching
methods
Analytical Analysis of Processes
o Together the accomplishments of my work related tasks and projects have
allowed me the ability to identify the type of work methods and strategies
best suited for my personal success.
Research
o The projects I had and am still working on have validated the usefulness
and great efficiencies of technology. Most of my work could not be done
without the use of a computer and related software, printers of various
types and copy machines. Not only are such devices required, but there is
an acquired knowledge involved with the use of these important devices.
This job is an indicator of industries highly dependent on technological
services and how the tech age has made it easier for business to be done.

Goals Completed:
Demonstrate my ability to proactively accomplish assignments.
o To attain this goal I revised my method of receiving assignments and
organizing due dates into a calendar/planner style. I make it a habit to, first
thing in the office, check my calendar and set reminders of upcoming due
dates in order to stay ahead. Working on projects or task ahead of time ( 12 weeks) is a healthier and more suitable management style apart of
improving work skills.
Goals in progress:
Take this viable and special opportunity as a great learning experience to be
applied in the future
o I am grateful to have an internship so unlike what I expected in the best
way. This internship allowed me access to a wide range of people, skills,
and interactions that I can assuredly put to good use in life and work. An
example being the experience of watching managers operate towards a
collective goal and being involved in team assignments has increased my
interpersonal relations with others. The different methods of designing an
exhibit that requires use of tools and machinery is another example of
useful information and skill I acquired over time that has already proved
beneficial.

Gain an understanding of whats necessary to advance my career in the

unconventional industry comprised of art and business.
o I now am aware of the options I have, as a business major, to incorporate
my other areas of study and passion with my main study of business. With
the broadness of business, I am allowed the accessibility to fulfill work
incorporating the learned business concepts, plans, and framework into
another market. I believe, with the right contacts, good intuition, and a
strong speaking ability, in combination of obtained business knowledge,
one could reach career heights.
Questions, Challenges, and Accomplishments:
Question
o The big question of whats next is one that crosses my thoughts every so
often. I feel its important to continue gaining experiences and skills that
challenge ones abilities. I see this internship as one that will lead me to
hopefully an even greater experiences and challenges. It is imperative that
just as in life; growth of ones professional environment should exist. The
inhibitions and feelings of doubt are to be expected, considering
graduation is near and time to join the workforce is soon to come. Its a
challenge to have so many unanswered questions involving my future, but
I know that I possess the abilities to get a job, and not just a job, but a job I
am satisfied and excited with. That is my true goal.