Many college students take internships over the summer. Some of us are lucky enough to get paid, but most of us are not. Let's face it, the first day, week or even month can be a little awkward. It's a whole new environment with new people, who are likely much older than you, and it can be hard to adjust. As I wrap up my first week of interning, here are some of my tips.
1. Don't be afraid to ask questions.
Even though you feel like you're expected to have it all together and be amazing at your internship right off the bat, you're not. Don't be afraid to ask what's expected of you on an assignment, to clarify dress code or even ask where the bathroom is. These people are here to help you, and even though it's intimidating, ask for help.
2. Make sure you know if/when you get a break.
My first day, I was too afraid to ask about my lunch break, and I was too afraid to leave my office, so I just didn't take one. I was really hungry. Don't be like me. Take any opportunity you can to eat because eating is the best.
3. Have an arsenal of business casual clothes.
Your office is most likely going to request that you dress business casual. That one nice dress that you wear for your big presentations in your classes isn't going to cut it. Get yourself some cute, knee-length dresses, some fancy black pants and some ballet flats. Treat yo' self.
4. Buy your snacks the night before.
There's nothing worse than almost being late because the person buying their coffee before you is looking for exact change.
5. Get lots of sleep.
My internship is open the typical 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., which means I have to wake up early. For those of you who don't know me well, I don't get up before noon unless it's for something pretty important. Sleep is key for me.
6. Don't move into a new apartment and start your internship at the same time.
This seems like common sense, right? Not to me. I hate coming home to a messy apartment because I haven't had the time to decorate or even unpack. Do yourself a favor and get one done before the other.
7. Bring a lunch from home instead of buying it each day.
Sure, buying lunch may seem exciting, but when you're in debt because you spend $15 a day on your lunch, you won't be excited anymore.
8. Use a planner.
Even though the school year is over, it's still smart to keep your intern assignments in a planner. This is especially helpful if you're interning, and also working a job or two.
9. Take initiative.
The stuff you're doing at your internship is likely the stuff you've learned in your classes. Don't be afraid to apply some of that knowledge to your work in order to improve your work and also you'll dazzle your coworkers.
10. Make a friend.
It can be hard to try to make friends in an office where you're the youngest person by several years, but try your best. You'll probably meet some pretty cool people who you would've otherwise never met.
11. Build. That. Resume.
Do as many cool things as you can to build up your resume. Take any opportunity that you're given. Your boss wants you to do something not at all related to your internship? Do it anyway. You never know what experience you could have while accomplishing that task.
