Internships Do’s and Don’ts

With June almost through, something most college student’s like myself have on their minds are internships. Whether they are in the process of completing them in the summer months or applying for them for the fall, internships are something every college student must endure.

Internships are not all that bad, they give students great experience for a career they may be considering, provide networking opportunities for college students, and may even lead to a job one day.

This summer I am completing my second internship and I am loving it. I am getting a lot of experience and learning things every day about a profession I am seriously considering. Last summer, I also completed an internship where I learned a lot as well. For both internships, I received college credit and they were nonpaid. Most internships only accept college credit and are nonpaid. If you have the opportunity to get a paid internship that’s an added bonus-and you should accept it. Each internship is different in their own way.

I have complied a list of do’s and don’ts when it has come to internships. If you have worked or are currently working at an internship, please leave in the comments below any things you may add.

DO

-Show up on time (whether it is your first or last day be sure to arrive on time or a few minutes early to start the day.  Arriving early is always the start to a good impression)

-Dress Professional (When applying or interviewing for internships be sure to ask what the appropriate attire is so you can plan ahead. As well as being professional, make sure you are comfortable. As cute as heels are they are not good for being on your feet 8 hours a day-ballet flats all the way.)

-Ask questions and take notes (Don’t be afraid to speak up or ask questions, you won’t learn things unless you ask. It can be intimidating the first few days and you will get a lot of information thrown at you, be sure to take notes and write everything down to make sure you keep everything in order.)

DON’T

-Be on your phone (Besides it being unprofessional to be on your phone while working, it takes away from the experience of what you are learning. If you find yourself with free time, try asking if there is anything that needs done or if there is anywhere you can help out.)

-Overstep or overshare (Keep in mind wherever you intern that you are an INTERN, you are not the center of attention- you are there to learn, observe, and help out where needed. You are not there to run the company but rather see how the company is run.)

-Just sit there and wait to be told what to do (Take initiative and see what you can do to help to do your part. Be a leader and show you are a go-getter and want to work hard. This will stand out to employers.)

 

These are just a few things I’ve learned by completing two internships as well as asking employers as well as other friends who have interned at a variety of businesses. If you have interned someplace or hire interns what advice would you give to rising interns, leave them in the comments below! Good Luck with your summer jobs and internships.