Your mom is probably very proud of you, and rightfully so.
Being an intern is a great opportunity that not everyone gets a chance to take part in. Often times they are very competitive to get into, and sometimes even harder to advance in. Hidden among these troubles, bonuses can be found — a major one being gaining professional experience while still in school.
This type of experience is not often the first thought that comes to mind, when internships are mentioned. Yes, generally interns are thought of in a particular way. Some of the stereotypes are over exaggerated, but some might be spot on.
1. Internship eh? You better know how your boss likes their coffee.
Even if getting coffee for your boss is not a part of the deal, this is one of the stereotypes that will probably always stick around. It never hurts to be prepared, so take out your list and be prepared to take those drink orders. The day might come when you least expect it.
2. Your own desk and computer: welcome to the office furniture leftovers. At least it works most of the time!
Congratulations you made it this far, but we are going to give you the oldest computer that we have, so don’t be surprised if it stops working. Oh and the computer help desk might not be able to help if you get in a pickle. May the force be with you, and with the inner workings of your technology.
3. One in a sea of a million.
It is often true that you will not be the only intern in that group you were hired into. In fact, sometimes a cubical might seem appealing, since then you would at least have an imaginary personal bubble.
Maybe that way you would be able to see the light of day, and not be stuck in a room or a basement in a pit type configuration.
4. Making the copy room your permanent home
Sure there are copies and stapling that needs to be done in most offices, but just because interns can doesn't mean that they do in all cases. Man, it also helps that a lot of work environments are going a lot more technological and keeping digital copies instead.
5. Don't blend into the background.
I would say this one is one of the truest. You made it this far, but that doesn’t mean you are ensured a spot forever. Going above and beyond what is required never hurts.
Hard work does pay off, and so does speaking up. Never be afraid to ask any question. You may look foolish in the moment, but at least you have a better chance of being remembered. Plus, it shows that you care.
Being an intern has its moments where you want to laugh, and those where you want to cry. Going through this might seem ridiculous, but the gains are worth it. It makes you strive to move up the food chain and not be stuck in the routine of a lowly intern.
To all my fellow interns; keep going, this is just the beginning. Some day you will get there.
Where is that? Well, that depends on you. Keep on following your aspirations, and delving deeper into aspects that interest you. You never know where that path might take you.
Run with this opportunity that you have worked so hard to get, and don't let the stereotypes get you down. Even if they sometimes ring true, you're going places and filling up your resume too!
