Mackinaw Parks provides workers with the opportunity to excel and learn skills hands-on. I was taught to safely use tractors, lawnmowers, chainsaws, and dump trucks. If you work hard, you will be endlessly praised and appreciated.
What I wish was different
Operations can be short-staffed and, as such, you need to prepared for your schedule to fluctuate and change on the fly. There were a few weeks where I had to work two shifts in a day or eight days straight, but I did get paid overtime.
Advice
Don’t take yourself too seriously. The regulars here like to joke around, so you can’t be snobby or too work-mode if you want to fit in. There are a lot of seasonals who do subpar work, too, so do your best work and you’ll excel!
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Guest Services Representative
June - August 2019 • Mackinac Island, MI
What I liked
The island itself is over 80% state park, with well kept trails and an abundance of beauty.
What I wish was different
The management of this organization leaves some to be desired.
Advice
If you visit or work on the island, venture off Main Street!
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Park Operations
May - August 2019 • Mackinaw City, MI
What I liked
It was great experience with the park system and I gained a lot of skills that could be applied to future jobs.
What I wish was different
I wish I could have gotten more experience with the administrative management side of the job.
Advice
Be flexible and willing to do a variety of tasks.
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Grounds Maintenance Worker
April - August 2019 • Mackinac Island, MI
What I liked
I loved the views and scenery that the island provides. It is such a beautiful place and to be able to live up there and work there as well over the summer was a dream come true.
What I wish was different
Advice
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Historic Interpreter
June - August 2019 • Mackinac Island, MI
What I liked
I loved working with history every day all day. I loved being on Mackinac Island with all the horses and lilacs.
What I wish was different
I wish we had more coworkers until the very end of summer so that our jobs wouldn’t be so crazy at that point. I wish I appreciated being on Mackinac island more when I was there.
Advice
To someone that wants to be a historic interpreter I would say make sure you know your information and know it well. Study study study.
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Historical interpreter
May - August 2017 • Mackinaw City, MI
What I liked
I loved every aspect of it! Dressing up in historical clothing was definitely the best part!
What I wish was different
N/A
Advice
It's okay to ask questions and make mistakes. You're learning and gaining experience - make it the best times ever
