As college students, most of us are required to fulfill an internship or two in order to graduate. When I first learned I would have to fulfill a practicum and internship requirement, I was a little disappointed. I no longer have the entire summer to eat and sleep. Soon after, I decided I would make this a positive experience. Interning is a chance to network and explore career fields, and get a few credit hours, too. So here are a few tips of my own that will help you master your internship:

1. Start Early

Planning ahead and applying early is key. Don't wait until April to start looking for your internship. Most universities finish classes in late April or early May, most places know this and will expect you to begin your internship as soon as possible. Besides, you'll want a fun and enjoyable internship. Which means, you have to apply early to ensure you won't end up with something boring.

2. Go Shopping

Feel free to use this next tip as an excuse to buy a new outfit. Dressing for success is vital to performing your best. Before your first day, go over the dress code for your internship and gather all of your business casual attire. Planning your outfits ahead of time is not only organized, but puts your mind at ease. If you have any questions about dress code and what is and isn't allowed, ask your supervisor before the first day. It is better to be safe than sorry. When in doubt, choose the more conservative option. As your internship progresses, you may feel more comfortable wearing pants rather than a skirt every day, or trade your heels for flats. Also, keep in mind the companies values are and the work places' atmosphere. What do the employees typically wear? Always remember to dress for success.

3. Be Prepared

Being ready for any task is important to proving your worth in your internship. This doesn't mean you need to know everything and be a superhero, it simply means to always be ready. Take notes, pay attention, and respond in a timely manor. At the beginning of your internship, your supervisor will discuss your expectations and guidelines. Take each of those seriously. As a matter of fact, take your entire internship seriously. This may just be a credit hour to you, but it is a position the company and entrusted you with.

4. Go Above And Beyond

When your supervisor says something is optional, make it a requirement. Taking every opportunity given to you will not only make your supervisor happy, but will help you make the most of your internship. Remember those expectations and guidelines I mentioned in tip 3? Go above and beyond those. The employees of the company you are interning for may very well be writing your recommendation letters one day. Give them something great to say. Also, go above and beyond because you want to, not just to please someone else.

5. Be Positive

You were chosen over the other applicants for a reason. Be confident in yourself and give it everything you have. Go make it the best internship out there, and be the best intern possible.

I hope you have learned a few tips you can use while mastering your internship this summer. Have tips of your own? Leave them in the comments. Feel free to share your internship stories!