How to survive an internship
School is tough, but your internship can be tougher. Here is the difference: you cannot mess this up.
Internships usually last for six months, and they can seem very long and arduous, especially if you have no idea what you are doing.
You also need to pull through in the long run while getting good grades. Not to worry, we have got you covered.
Check out our internship survival guide below!
1. Be proactive
You are here to leave a good impression, so show your bosses just how interested and hardworking you are by helping them in even the simplest of tasks, like refilling their water bottles for them.
By showing your superiors that you can handle even the simplest of tasks, they will entrust you with bigger responsibilities eventually.
You can even propose good ideas that will benefit your department and company. If your boss likes them, it is a plus point for you. If not, no harm done right?
Just do not make it obvious that you are sucking up.
2. Have lunch with your colleagues
You definitely need a good break halfway through the day, so make it count. Use this time to get to know your colleagues or fellow interns outside of work, and expand your network.
As a total newbie in the industry, you will need all the advice you can get if you are looking to stay in your line of work. Be a little more comfortable with them and find out what are the tricks needed to survive in the long run.
Besides, it is always nice to share a meal with people.
3. Know your boundaries
Your superiors might be nice and caring, but please remember not to take them for granted by stepping all over them.
As an intern, you are at the bottom of the food chain, so you must know your place. Avoid asking any stupid questions pertaining to sensitive matters, and do not kaypoh for things that you should not be involved in.
Be humble too. And if you screw up, just apologise. It certainly goes a long way in showing your character.
4. Do not forget your school reports
Just because you are already “working”, it does not mean that you should forget that you are still a student.
If you have monthly logs, and interim or final reports, do not leave them to the very last minute. These can take up a huge percentage for your final grade so you must not screw this up.
Scrambling to finish your report just minutes before its deadline is a recipe for disaster.
5. Have fun
It is going to be a long ride with your company, so you might as well enjoy it. There is no use going to work everyday loathing about your life, when you can bring a more positive vibe to your work place!
So, turn that frown upside down and make your few months in your company a fulfilling one!
If you have any other useful tips for fellow interns, leave a comment below!
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