Well as Justin Timberlake once said, "it's gonna be May", we all know what that means the infamous "Intern Season"!
As college students, summer has come but graduation is around the corner. We want to get on a straight and smooth path setting ourselves up for success after graduation, so we get an internship.
May is the first month of many for us interns, and we're ready to be put to the test and show what we got!
I met with one of my close friends for lunch the other day, one of her first days at her internship. She asked me a question that has been stuck in my head, she said, "I am so nervous, I want to show my talents, do you have any advice to make this experience all worthwhile?"
I wanted to share some tips and tricks I have found useful when you're gaining experience and you're given the opportunity of having an internship, one not everyone is given.
To the shy one: be yourself, if you're shy- be shy- but still be involved and engaged. You have talents and skills that surpassed the other candidates, so still be yourself, but prove it. Prove you are the right person for the role, and importantly, you're the right person for the company.
To the nervous one: ask questions. It's okay to be nervous and afraid, but don't let it stop you from being successful. Ask your questions, take notes, do what you need to do to feel comfortable and at ease. This is your experience, so take it all in.
To the confident one: be humble. You may have previous experience, know the tricks and lay of the land, but don't flaunt it. Nobody likes an egoistical jerk. Be confident, but be confident in your work, your projects, your research, and your team.
To the young one: you've got this. The team has faith in you and sees the potential you possess, so prove them right. Even if you're the youngest in the room, say your opinion, share your ideas, give feedback. Not only will this help you stand out, this proves that age is nothing to professionalism.
To the outgoing one: be patient. It's so amazing that you feel so comfortable being yourself and showing your personality. But not everyone will be this way, so go with the flow and be sensitive to the people around you. They'll come to terms and show their personality soon enough.
A lot has happened in my life, and I am grateful to have learned from all of the experiences and opportunities. I am always happy to give advice, just listen, or be the shoulder to cry on. If you have any other questions, I'd be happy to help!
We all want to achieve our goals and to be successful in them. I wish you all the best of luck!
Remember to get involved, be yourself, take on projects, give feedback, be innovative, ask questions, and take it all in.
Happy Intern Season friends, "may the odds be ever in your favor".
