Important Internship Advice You Need

Internships are the best way to learn about a particular field before diving into a career. Whether you’re a recent university graduate or just on summer holiday, pursuing an internship can help you gain clarity on what you might want to do in the future.

Internships are also a great way to gain experience abroad. There are plenty of international internship programs that allow you to combine international travel with professional experience. If you’ve already secured an internship but are nervous about the experience ahead, these internship tips will ensure that you are prepared to get the most out of your internship experience. Keep reading to find out why an internship is worth it and internship advice to help you succeed.

Is an internship worth it?

Internships: your sneak peek into the real world.

Absolutely! While you will want to consider factors like whether or not an internship is paid, an internship is generally the best way to figure out what you want to do in the long run. It will allow you to get a taste of what life could be like in a specific job and gain vital experience necessary for a future career. You will have the opportunity to boost your resume, develop various skills, strengthen your professional network, and potentially find a mentor in your field.

International internships are also uniquely suited to help you experience the work culture in another country, practice your language skills, and create professional connections abroad. Embarking on an internship, whether at home or abroad, is the first step in building a fruitful career. Prepare for your internship with the important internship advice for students below.

11 Important Tips for a Successful Experience

Now that you know why pursuing an internship is a good idea, you may be wondering how to have a successful experience. While being an intern is all about learning along the way, there are a few things you can do to get the most out of your internship. Here are a few internship tips:

1. Do your research.

Whenever going for an interview or beginning a new job, it’s important to do your own research on the company. Take note of a company’s history, values, and work culture, and research any skills you might need to best succeed in your role. If you’re doing an internship abroad, make sure to research a country’s customs in the workplace. Gathering relevant information is a great way to stand out to your new employer and ease the transition into your internship position.

Use these steps to compare internship programs

2. Build your network.

In this day and age, getting a job is all about who you know. One of the greatest benefits of an internship experience is the opportunity to build a professional network. Not only will you meet seasoned professionals in your chosen field, but you will also get the chance to connect with other interns with similar aspirations. Make sure to take advantage of this experience to grow your network at home and abroad!

3. Find a mentor.

A mentor’s wisdom can go a long way.

One of the best pieces of advice given to internship students is to find a mentor. A suitable mentor will pass along their wisdom and help you pave your career path. Your mentor will have the necessary experience to guide you along your professional journey and help you effectively accomplish your goals. Having someone to look up to and provide feedback will enhance your internship experience and benefit your future career.

4. Set concrete goals.

If you want to get the most out of your internship experience, it is important to set concrete goals. Knowing exactly what you want to accomplish during the duration of your internship will help you measure your progress and focus your energy. Some goals may include gathering useful contacts, developing certain skills, or building a strong resume, but this will depend on your experience and personal aspirations.

5. Be open to everything.

When completing a professional internship, it is important to be open to everything and willing to step outside of your comfort zone. Whether that’s going to another country to complete your internship or simply taking on an unfamiliar task, having an open mindset will allow you to grow and learn as much as possible. It will also show your employer that you are able to thrive in a dynamic environment.

Learn how to maximize cultural immersion during your internship

6. Ask questions

Curious minds always get ahead—don’t hold back.

There is no better way to demonstrate your curiosity and willingness to learn than asking your employer questions. Don’t be scared to ask for help whenever you may need it or even reach out to your fellow interns for support. People are much more willing to share their experience and knowledge than you may think, so never stop asking questions during your internship!

7. Stay on top of your assignments.

When completing an internship, staying organized and on top of your assignments is incredibly important. Not only will you develop productive working habits for the future but you will also show your employer that you can handle your workload. Some organizational tools to help you manage your responsibilities include keeping a weekly planner, maintaining a clean workspace, and listing tasks in order of priority.

8. Have a good attitude.

While internships can come with some stress and discomfort, especially when completing an internship abroad, it is important to maintain a good attitude in the workplace. Building a career is as much about qualifications as it is about charisma and personality. Make sure to show up to the office every day with a smile and a positive attitude to ensure that you leave a good impression on your employer.

9. Seek out variety.

Internships are the perfect opportunity to find out what you like and don’t like in a professional setting. Do you prefer to work in an office or complete your work remotely? Do you work better independently or in a team? Do you like to work behind the scenes or out in the field? This is your chance to learn more about your working style and skillset, so be sure to seek out variety in your internship.

10. Develop transferable skills.

Even if you’re not sure if your internship is in a job you would like to have in the future, you will surely have the opportunity to develop transferable skills. An internship is a great way to work on skills like public speaking, time management, teamwork, leadership, and flexibility. These skills will come in handy for any profession you pursue down the line.

11. Request feedback.

Take it in—feedback fuels growth.

Finally, requesting feedback at the end of your internship will bring closure to the experience and ensure that you can take what you have learned to the next stage of your career. Receiving feedback from your employer can help you reflect on your performance and make necessary improvements for the future. Constructive feedback is an important aspect of developing any career, and your internship is the perfect place to start!

This advice for your internship will help you make the most of your experience!

Are you ready to embark on the next stage of your career? During your internship abroad, you will meet experts in your field, gain invaluable knowledge and experience, and take the first steps to build a meaningful professional future. Now that you know important advice for internships, you are prepared to have a successful experience!