Make the Most of Your Internship

Internships are fantastic bridges that link your academic career to your professional career. During an internship, you can strengthen your abilities, make relevant connections, use knowledge and skills you've already acquired, and learn what works in a company and what you want to avoid. As you consider internships for the academic year or the summer, keep in mind four noteworthy recommendations below.

• 1. Keep an Open Mind

  Today students have access to a range of internships. Start networking and seeking out positions well in advance of when you want to start your internship. While searching, and even in the interview process, don't be quick to judge an opportunity. An internship may not seem to align directly with your specific major, but you may still gain relevant experiences that will help you on your career path regardless. Use the interview as an opportunity to not only present yourself honestly and confidently, but as a chance to ask questions to determine the type of work and responsibilities you will have as an intern.
  
  

• 2. Say Yes

  After you secure an internship, remember that interns can make an impact. When an employee asks for help on a project — even if it seems like a minor task to you — step up! A cheerful disposition and a can-do attitude make an impression. Minor tasks done well will encourage employees to ask you for help on more difficult assignments. You can lighten the workload for the employees, build trust, and develop your skills. And if there are opportunities to connect socially within the organization, whether at lunch or during company-wide events, participate. Connecting in more casual environments will allow others to know you as more than an intern. And remember, even if you don't pursue a job at the company you're interning for, your manager can still be a terrific reference.
  
  

• 3. Add Value

  Don't hesitate to offer your knowledge, experience, and ideas from your previous experiences or coursework. The ability to add value to your internship workplace cultivates a collaborative atmosphere. And in turn, when employees appreciate your contributions, you can experience exponential growth.
  
  

• 4. Pay Attention

  This is an opportunity to learn about the working world. Observe aspects of the company: the mission, the size, the structure, the culture, and the atmosphere. Is there a lot of collaboration and teamwork or is work completed more independently? Is there a community feel? Can you tell if employees like their work? Is the work interesting, important, and relevant? Observing these characteristics and answering these questions can help you determine the type of organization you might like to work for after graduation.

Whether you are just starting your internship search or have yet to begin, your internship will be whatever you make of it. Have the confidence to believe that wherever you intern, you will create meaningful experiences. Prepare well, work hard, and enjoy the opportunity.