How to Get the Most of Fall Internship

Internships are hard work. And doing only what’s expected of you isn’t enough to be noticed. You need to go above and beyond, from arriving on time to doing exemplary work, and make the most of your time in the organization. Here’s some tips to get the most of your fall internship.

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Broaden Your Skills

After all, internship is about gaining your skills. During your fall internship, maybe you'll write your first newsletter or computer program, create a schedule, or get involved in a project. But, no matter what work you do, you are gaining knowledge and skills that are different than the ones learned in the classroom. If colleagues mention interesting, relevant news stories, resources, or tips, follow up and learn more. All of this research and follow-through will make you a better, more informed candidate during interviews.

Complete Each Task with Excellence

Whether an assignment is mundane or exotic, pursue it with relentless drive and a determination to exceed. Finish the assignment or project with excellence and anything else you do is bonus. Even if the project seems small or unimportant, do not give in to the temptation to complete it with anything less than your best, and don’t decline a project just because it doesn’t interest you.

Ask for Additional Task

Volunteer for additional work and projects if you've completed your assigned tasks. Or, better still, generate a list of helpful projects or tasks, and ask your manager if it's OK to move forward with them.

Build Professional Relationships

Internships usually last only a few months, and in that context, it’s easy to either focus solely on your work or to make connections only with the other interns working around you. But forming broad, deep relationships within your team and throughout the organization can help you manage your current responsibilities while also boosting personal development. You’ll also make yourself more memorable to those around you and create a network of contacts to reach out to when you’re ready to find your next job.

Ask for Feedback

As an intern, you've practically got "newbie" in your title. That may be frustrating, and sometimes limit you from more exciting projects, but it also means that you're expected to not know everything. So feel free to ask questions, always. You can also ask for feedback from managers and colleagues. Find out what you can be doing better. While it's hard to hear negative feedback, knowing your weak points can help you improve.