So you’ve recently heard back from your *~dream company~*, and congrats! You got an internship there for the summer! Now you’ll want to start thinking about things in terms of what you’re going to wear, eat, and bring to work each day.
First, let’s get the basics out of the way. You want your employer to remember why they hired you, so creating a good first impression is important. On your first day (and all your other days, too, but especially the first one), remember to maintain a professional attitude, to smile, and to follow directions properly. Additionally, honesty, punctuality, optimism, creativity, and motivation are other great characteristics to bring to the table (or should I say, desk).
And now, [the fun part!] the materialistic things! Whether you’re going to commute from home each morning or have to live in a new city, there are several things you should bring with you to ensure you can do and feel your best at work each day.
A reusable water bottle: It’s 2019, who doesn’t have one of these things?! It will keep you hydrated, which is really vital during the hotter summer months (seriously can’t stress this enough – water does GREAT things for your body) You’ll most likely want a bottle on the larger side, so you don’t have to keep refilling it. Some brand suggestions include d. Stil, Hydroflask or Klean Kanteen.
A cardigan: Sometimes, in the midst of the hot summer heat, I totally forget how cold air conditioning can make me. Bringing a light cardigan to combat the sweep of cold air over my desk was probably one of the best ideas I had this summer. Some great brands to check out for a cardigan: Everlane, Patagonia, and Alternative Apparel.
Comfortable shoes: While pumps and heeled sandals are super cute, wearing them all day around an office or on the job will definitely tire your feet out. Some cute and practical shoes to check out are Soludos espadrilles, Madewell loafers, and J. Crew flats.
Snacks in your purse or lunch bag: If this your first time working 40 hours a week, it will definitely seem like a lot at first, especially while trying to get acclimated to the work culture. Bringing some snacks to get you through the workday is a great idea; I don’t know about you but when I’m hungry I get hangry and my creativity disappears, which is definitely not what’s wanted while you’re at work. Some of my favorite snack suggestions are pistachios, Belvita biscuits, Boom Chicka Pop popcorn, and any kind of protein bar.
Although these suggestions might seem arbitrary, I know when I’m nervous sometimes I forget even the most basic of things, and I’m sure I’m not alone. Good luck during your internship this summer, you’re going to do amazing things!