Internship guide

Internship Guide

"Student Internship" is really a sneaky noun that means "extended job interview," and your mother didn't lie when she said you never get a second chance to make a first impression. Remember that, and your student internship will go well. 

For smashing success, plan with this calendar: 

Student Internship Guide - Tips

Day 1: Set your alarm clock. Double check it, install batteries and set it early for good measure. The workplace isn't a party; don't show up fashionably late.

Day 2: Accept assignments—filing, fact-checking, answering phones—with a smile. Nothing is beneath you. Your work on small projects indicates how you'll handle bigger tasks.

Day 7: Make a sincere effort to know your co-workers. Remember names and say hello. But establishing yourself doesn't guarantee job security. E-mail friends on your own time; keep personal calls to a minimum.

Day 15: When you don't understand, ask. Always. If you don't know something, better to say so up front than disappoint later.

Day 20: Seek feedback. Find out what parts of your student internship you need to improve.

Day 28: Boss springs for lunch? Write a thank-you note. Manners win points.

Day 35: 9 to 5 means stay until 5. Or later. Hard work is appreciated.

Day 40: Request an exit evaluation. Specify weaknesses, strengths and achievable goals. Ask for a reference or letter of recommendation.

A student internship can be the gateway to your first job after college.  Follow this internship guide to get the most out of your experience and leave the best impression.