This is excerpted from from Penny Loretto’s article in the balance careers. Read the full article here.
One thing all students should consider before even starting their summer internship is “what do I need to do to become a successful intern?” Getting an internship is just the beginning, and it isn’t the most important part of the internship process. Sure it may have been tough finding an internship and getting an offer, but the truth is that the value of doing an internship is based mainly on how you decide to handle the internship based on what you have to offer. That’s right; the burden is on you to make the internship successful and to perhaps even turn your internship into a full-time job.
It’s not about the company telling you what to do; it’s about you showing your value through your own initiative, motivation, and personal and professional skill set.
Tips:
- Read important literature and trade magazines about the field
- Take time to review the company’s website
- Get yourself a mentor
You may also be interested in watching these Internship Tips from Former Peer Career Advisors.