Arrive Early
Punctuality is key during your internship. Arrive a few minutes early every day to demonstrate your reliability and commitment.
Preparing for Your Internship
Getting Ready for Your First Day
Starting an internship can be both exciting and a little scary for anyone. Consider the following points to create a smooth and educational experience:
- Transportation: check your commute route and parking options
- Lunch: identify the lunch options
- Attire: ask about professional attire
- Timing: clarify when to arrive
- Equipment: inquire about any items you may need to bring such as a laptop
One challenge I faced during my experiences was time management, especially since I was extremely busy over the summer due to various commitments. However, I managed to address and overcome this issue by discussing my schedule with my faculty mentor and supervisor.
Venus Harvey
Political Science
The First Week at Your Internship or Research Experience
Here are some tips to help you navigate your first week:
Dress Appropriately
Make sure you understand the dress code and adhere to it. When in doubt, it's better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed.
Communication
Talk with your supervisor about their preferred way to communicate such as email, text, face-to-face. Do you have regular meetings to ask for feedback on your work and to clarify directions and prioritize?
Ask Questions
Don’t hesitate to ask questions if you're unsure about something. It's better to seek clarification than to make assumptions and potentially make mistakes.
Listen and Observe
Pay attention to how things are done in the workplace. Observe your colleagues and learn from their actions and behaviors. Is it acceptable to wear earbuds while working, have your phone with you in meetings? Look for signs of inclusivity, such as respectful communication, collaboration among diverse teams, and opportunities for employees to share their perspectives and ideas without fear of judgment.
Take Initiative
Don't wait for tasks to be handed to you. If you see an opportunity to contribute or take on a new project, don't hesitate to speak up.
Network
Take the time to introduce yourself to your colleagues and build relationships. Networking can be invaluable for your future career.
Be Flexible
Internships often involve a variety of tasks and projects. Be prepared to adapt to changing priorities and take on new challenges.
Take Notes
Whether it's during meetings, training sessions, or while working on tasks, taking notes can help you remember important information and stay organized.
Send Feedback
Actively seek feedback on your work and performance. Use it as an opportunity for growth and improvement.
Stay Positive
Remember that everyone starts somewhere, and it's okay to make mistakes as long as you learn from them. Stay positive and approach each day with enthusiasm and a willingness to learn.