This past semester I had the opportunity to live and work in our Nation's Capital. In D.C., interns are one and many. During my time here I not only learned how to successfully maneuver the metro like a true D.C. native, I also learned what is required to really stand out as an intern
1.You’ve gotta be a yes man
Whether you actually want to spend two hours making copies or not (chances are you probably don’t want to), you’re going to do it anyways. And you’re going to do it with a smile on your face. Attitude is everything. Nobody wants an intern who thinks delivering something a couple doors down is beneath them. Don’t be that person.
2. Common sense is your best friend
Don’t be the intern who asks the boss how to use the copy machine. You’re here because they picked you, don’t make them regret it. You know the whole, “there’s no such thing as a stupid question?” Yeah, that’s a lie. If you and the other interns have to get together to learn how to transfer calls, then do it. That being said, don’t be afraid to ask a legitimate question, but it’s got to be a good one
3. Don’t take yourself too seriously
Take your job seriously, yes. But don’t take yourself too seriously. When you’re surrounded by the same people for 40 plus hours a week, personality is crucial. You don’t want to be the uptight intern that nobody wants to be around. That being said, be mature about it.
4. Always be the first one there
Nothing leaves a better impression than being the first one in the office. There’s something to be said about an individual who isn’t getting paid to work, who is going above and beyond by being there early and leaving late if need be. It’s only one semester, you’re going to live I promise. Trust me, people will notice.
5. Keep your head down
For the first month at least. Don’t go into a new internship with this idea that you’re going to be a rock star right away. Yes, I’m sure you’ll be a rock star eventually, but that status takes time. The first month you’re there you just need to play it cool. Get a feel for the office, understand expectations, do the things you’re supposed to do. After that, take some chances.
6. Leave a legacy
Unless you want to be remembered as “just another intern,” you have to really make an impact. Whether it be implementing a new filing system, or even cleaning out that old supply closet, do something that will make them remember you. So a year from now when you need that reference letter, they won’t have to LinkedIn you to remember what you looked like.
7. Stay updated and have conviction
D.C. is full of genius people with ideas and opinions. More than likely you’re going to get asked your opinion on the latest Politico article or the newest bill on the Hill. Make sure you know your sh*t, and stand firm in your beliefs. People will respect you a lot more if you know what you’re talking about, even if it is different than their belief.
But, the most important tip to a successful internship, is just to have them. Do lots of internships. Meet people. Make them like you. Make them remember you. Just because you have an internship doesn’t mean they’re going to offer you a job the day you get your degree. But the chances that they know someone, who knows someone who works in your dream job? Now that chance is pretty high.
