4 ways to make the most of an internship opportunity

Having interned with Human Resources magazine for three months, Meghna Gupta puts down her experience of optimising one’s time and learning during a media and events internship.

No experience, no job? That may have been true some years ago, but today entry-level candidates’ fresh perspective is exactly what some employers are looking for. Unfortunately interns are often put on the backburner, especially if they are in a company that doesn’t have a structured internship programme.

An internship comes with its challenges and benefits, but at the end of they day you are there to learn as much as you can about the sector or field you’re entering.

Here are a few tips to maximise what you can get out of your internship:

1. Enter with goals in mind

Although you’re there to expand your knowledge and essentially learn a new set of skills, it is still important to go in with some idea on what you want to learn. For example, this could consist of simply jotting down a few specific targets you aim to achieve by the end of the internship period before starting.

2. Take your responsibilities seriously

This one sounds obvious, but it’s important to reiterate the fact that you’re there to learn as well as hopefully leave a positive impact behind. The only way to achieve this is to consider the internship like a real job, which means making sure to arrive promptly, meeting deadlines and committing to your responsibilities.

3. Ask questions!

You don’t have to stop at just fulfilling the job expectations, you can take it even further by asking questions and having a genuine want to learn the most you can about the work you’re doing. Your coworkers and mentors are invaluable resources and are probably sitting just a desk or two away. Whether you’re finding a task challenging, or you just want some feedback, don’t hesitate to reach out.

4. Get to know your coworkers

Related to the previous tip, although it can be intimidating at first, getting to know fellow interns and other colleagues is always a good idea. Socialising with those around you can make the long workdays seem to pass way faster, and even make you more excited about going to work. You’re not always going to have such an opportunity to meet some potentially very interesting and friendly people!

Conclusion

Remember to stay positive and flexible during your internship and be open to new opportunities. This is your first glimpse of the career you want to have and you want to make a great impression while learning as much as possible. Follow the above tips to make the most out of your internship and hopefully land a full-time job going into your senior year!