Internships. Some are fun. Others? Maybe not so much. However, they all have something to teach you. As a girl who has successfully completed three up until now, I have some things to say about the process and how to get the big pay off: A job.
1. Be Organized
Try not to seem sloppy or disheveled often. This can range from consolidating your three bag load into one bag or making sure your pants aren’t slouching in the crotch. Keeping a common perspective of you as cool, calm, and collected will help people higher up than you think you’re always ready to take on a challenge with grace and class.
2. “A short pencil is better than a long memory”
Take notes. Once you’re given an assignment, try to write it down or add it to a to-do list. Often things will pile up on interns and it will create much less stress if you can use your brain to actually execute your plans versus trying to remember them.
3.Go the extra mile
Show your supervisors that you’re in this for the long haul. You’re willing to do the things that people who are hired on will do, even without the pay. Take initiative. Figure out how you can volunteer to be of assistance somewhere else. It’ll all rack up savvy points with the people that matter.
4. Find something & stick to it.
Find a particular section that interest you and make that your main area of work to show your leadership that you’re ready and able to step into that section whenever they need you.
5. Marathon. Not a race.
Pace yourself. Don’t bit off more than you can chew. There’s nothing worse than showing so much great enthusiasm and initiative only to come to the harsh realization that you won’t be able to deliver on your commitments.
You got this, sis! Happy trails!
-HCXO