Making the Most Out of Your Internship
Posted on Jul. 5, 2023 / Subscribe 0
An internship for many college students and recent graduates can be seen as a check box they need to mark in order to get a “real” job. But in reality, internships are valuable experiences that can guide you to a successful career.
Internships expose you to unique industry-specific experiences, professional networks and job opportunities. Below are suggestions on making the most out of your internship.
Set goals
Setting goals with your supervisor is fundamental. Having personal and professional goals allows you to push yourself. To illustrate this, here are a few goals I have set for myself as an intern with PRSA Detroit.
- Gain insight on how PR is done successfully in a membership organization through website training, blog writing, content curation and networking.
- Attend at least 3 networking events and make 5 new connections by the end of my internship.
- Work with the social media committee to learn the inner workings of each platform and provide recommendations for improvement.
This is an experience to jump out of your comfort zone and learn new things. By setting goals that are challenging yet attainable, you can give it your all.
Manage your time
Patience is a virtue. Remember that great work takes time. Always strive to put forth your best effort in everything you do. Manage your time in a way that allows you to do your job well. If you feel overwhelmed or want more tasks, speak with your supervisor.
Use your network as a resource
Using your network as a resource will aid you throughout your career. Introduce yourself to everyone you come across and learn more about their specific role. Down the line, you might find out that you’re interested in what they specialize in.
You can also build mentor relationships with coworkers. You can receive advice, recommendations and connections from them. As you start your career, having relationships with experienced professionals will assist you on your journey.
Ask questions
As an intern, you aren’t expected to know everything. If you are having a hard time understanding something or need clarification, chat with your supervisor. Asking questions shows that you genuinely want to understand the project at hand. There is no such thing as a ‘dumb’ question. Use your supervisor as a resource. They are there as a guide.
Be open to feedback
Whether it’s positive or negative, your supervisors typically offer feedback. By remaining open to feedback, you can craft work that will drive you closer to completing your goals. Keep an open mind and remember that feedback is available to help you, not hurt you.
Keep in touch
When your internship ends it doesn’t mean the relationships you’ve built should end, too. You must continue the relationships you’ve built beyond your internship. You never know where you might end up. Having connections within the industry will leave you with many opportunities.
An internship is an opportunity that allows you to try new things, meet professionals and advance your skills. To stand out from the rest and begin a rewarding career, you must make the most out of your internship.
Cydney Foster is an integrative public relations major at Central Michigan University and an intern with PRSA Detroit.
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