Internships are highly valued and necessary in college. Not only does it show potential employers that you have work experience, it helps you figure out if you really want to pursue that job in the future. It helps you gain real life work experience and it is an outstanding thing to write on your resume. Here are some things I learned from my first internship.
1. Be On Time
You know the saying, if you’re on time, you’re late. Showing up to work early shows you are motivated and ready to tackle the day.
2. Don't Complain
Being an intern, you are going to be doing some tasks that you don’t like or are “too hard” for you to do. Even giving a heavy sigh is known as complaining and will make your supervisor think you are not that interested in the job.
3. Stay Away From Your Cell Phone
Checking your cell phone at work gives the wrong idea to your supervisor. It shows them that you do not have anything to do and are not being challenged as much.
4. Always Ask For More
One of the biggest takeaways I have learned from my internship is by asking for more responsibilities. Not only does it show your supervisor you are hardworking, it shows that you are willing to learn.
5. Time Management Is Important
In class, if you turn in an assignment late, you receive a lower grade. When you have a job, turning in projects late not only make you behind, they make the rest of your team behind and things do not get accomplished as quickly. Don’t be that person to make everyone else fall behind!
6. It's OK To Make Mistakes
The transition from the classroom to the workplace is quite different and it’s OK to make mistakes. You’re there to learn, but also remember to try not to make the same mistake twice.
7. It's Better To Overdress Than Underdress
In college we might be able to get away with walking to class in sweatpants and a giant hoodie. In work, things are completely different. You need to dress appropriately for work because you will be working with all different types of people, and you never know who you will run into that may offer you a job in the future if you dress right!
8. You're At The Bottom
Being an intern can feel discouraging sometimes because you feel like you aren’t included in the major projects, but it’s important to remember that it is all part of the process. Your supervisor, boss, and even CEO were at your position one point in their lives. You have to start somewhere before moving up.
9. Networking Is More Important Than You Think
Get to know your supervisor and co-workers. They have years of experience in the field and can teach you things you will need to know for the future. Plus, networking can help lead to potential jobs in the future!
10. You Play An Important Role In The Company
Everyone thinks by being an intern, you are not doing much, but truth is, you are there for a reason. Your supervisor hired you because they saw potential in you. While you may feel discouraged at times, always remember that you are blessed to have this opportunity to learn about a field you are passionate about.
11. Be Sure To Thank Your Supervisor
Saying thank you to your supervisor for providing you this opportunity can go a long way. You want to appreciate the time they took to teach you that will be helpful for you in the future. By ending your internship on a good relationship with them, they will look at you with a positive light and when it’s time for recommendation letters, they will be more than happy to write one for you.
