New York City is the radiant center of both culture and work that most people can only dream of experiencing. From its bustling metropolitan environment to its endless opportunities, New York City stands on its own. If you are one of the few lucky college students who managed to score a summer internship in the greatest city on earth, I have a few words of wisdom for you.
Inside the office:
Get to know your fellow interns.
Large corporate offices can definitely get lonely at times. Use the opportunity you’ve been given to build relationships with students who are working toward similar goals. If you’re lucky, these people will become your lunch dates and confidants as you navigate the intimidating corporate world together.
Seek out projects.
It’s very easy to sit at your desk and wait for an email from your boss requesting assistance on a project. However, it’s the interns who proactively search for work that make the greatest impression. Don’t hesitate to offer your assistance when the workload is light. Don’t be afraid to approach your boss before a conference call or meeting and ask to listen in. After all, you are there to learn.
Ask questions.
Whether this is your first dip in the corporate world or not, you are still a student. Chances are, you will not understand everything there is to know about the sector in which you are working – and your boss knows this. Ask questions when you need clarification and always continue to be curious.
Outside the office:
Commute in sneakers.
Heels, and even some flats, are uncomfortable enough while you’re walking around the office for eight hours every day. Don’t put yourself through even more pain by commuting in your work shoes as well. Leave the house in shoes fit for city travel and change into appropriate business shoes after arriving at your desk. Worried about looking bizarre in a dress and sneakers? Fear not – everyone else is doing it too.
Wear layers.
I know this might seem crazy considering most days will be 80 degrees and sunny, but I promise you won’t regret it. Not only are New York mornings usually moderately chilly, but the temperature in your office will also likely verge on freezing. Save yourself the discomfort of sitting helplessly in a freezing cold office all day by wearing layers.
Take advantage of working in the greatest city in the world.
Interning in NYC encompasses so much more than just your eight hours in the office every day. Go in early and take a leisurely stroll through Bryant Park. Use lunch breaks to adventure through New York’s eclectic food scene. Stay late and explore the surrounding neighborhoods. You are truly lucky to be able to call New York your home for the summer. Don’t let it go to waste.
