We are undoubtedly smack-dab in the middle of a tech revolution — a statement that can be defended by the hundreds, if not thousands, of tech start-ups popping up each week. In New York City alone, there are so many start-up companies that the city developed a digital map of them all, including the company website, location, and whether or not they’re currently hiring.

So many current students and fresh grads would do anything to win a position at a start-up, but has it becoming a mindless desire molded by hype from our peers and media outlets? They’ve almost become this sort of mythical, romanticized ideal we millennial creatures put on a pedestal and drool over, but do we really know why it’s great to work at a start-up?

Currently interning at a young start-up, RentShare, and even at a small company like Creative Village/Creative Interns, I wanted to share the benefits I’ve personally experienced by going into the office every week (thus, it by no means is a checklist for all companies you may encounter):

  • It’s small: Some may even call it “intimate” (but that’s a little weird). One of my favorite things about being part of a small organization of about 5-7 people (it fluctuates with the hiring of new interns) is that I actually get to know my coworkers and talk to them on a one-on-one basis. It makes the ambiance seem more like a team rather than a bunch of coworkers, which is great for morale.
  • Your work matters: Not that it doesn’t elsewhere! But what I noticed when writing blogposts or press releases or even managing some social media is that since I’m part of a smaller team, my task has a larger impact on the company goals. I’m much more accountable for the work I put out and that itself is a motivator.
  • Your ideas get picked up: Since team meetings are smaller and you are most likely in direct contact with the CEO and other super important figures, you get a chance to pitch your ideas and elaborate on them. The beginning stages, in my opinion, are so great because the white board isn’t full yet, so no idea is easily dismissed. The best part is when everyone starts to voice their suggestions on how to make your idea better, and an thought you jotted down in your notebook suddenly becomes a working project. That’s what happened with my Neighborhood Profiles series!
  • Witnessing a company GROW: This part is super exciting. You get to see the baby steps of an organization become toddler steps, and then big kid steps, and then adult steps! I’ve always wanted to enter the stage of a company where one new sign-up was to be celebrated — it definitely makes you more personally invested in the company.
  • Lunch is fun: No, really, this is important! I’ve really become friends with the people I work with which is something that is entirely undervalued in the workplace. Being close with your coworkers allows for easier communication and teamwork. Plus, you should like the people you work with, right?

Remember, these are only what I’ve personally seen first hand after working at a start-up. If you disagree or have something else to add, I’d love to hear it in the comments section!