How To Make The Most Out of an Internship

An internship is important because it will provide you with the opportunity to gain the skills and knowledge required for actual employment. Internships can be an excellent training ground that offers an edge over other candidates. Nonetheless, while an internship can give you opportunities for learning and improvement, that will only be possible if you make the most out of it. The tips below will help you make your internship count.

Be Adaptable

As an intern, you will be the one to adjust to the needs of the organization and not the other way around. Therefore, you should learn how to be flexible and follow instructions. More often than not, being an intern will include the completion of some mundane task, such as photocopying and printing. Always remember that your goal is to contribute to the operations of the organization and to learn how the work environment operates.

Volunteer as Much as Possible

While many interns complain about the menial tasks that are assigned to them, if you do them well and learn how to volunteer, you will get much wider exposure in the organization. If you feel like you are being limited with regards to your function or if you have been stuck in a certain department, you can consider approaching your supervisor and requesting new tasks. Of course, only do this if you know you will be able to handle additional responsibilities.

Find a Mentor

One of the most important things to do to make the most out of your internship is to look for a mentor. This is a person you admire based on work ethics and performance, someone you would like to emulate when you are already working. A mentor does not need to be a person who supervises you directly. You can ask for their advice when necessary, and they can also help you to be protected from office politics.

Bond with Other People

As an intern, you should also make an effort to be friends with people in the office or with other interns. By being social, you will be able to learn more, and this can also be the perfect opportunity for you to improve your network of people who will help you in one way or another in the future. Even if you are giving your best effort to perform well in your internship, do not let this be an excuse to not have fun times with other people, especially outside of the work environment.

Looking for more educational opportunities? Check out our Careers Page for more information on school programs that match your passion!