For many students, the word ‘internship’ makes them nervous. It’s understandable – the prospect of going out into the real world, away from the safety of their classes and lecturers is something completely unknown.
I finished my internship in QIU’s Public Relations department a few months ago, so I know how you feel.
But there’s actually no reason for concern. Internships are actually full of excitement, anticipation, and adventure if you approach it the right way.
Here, I’m going to share some tips on how to fully enjoy your internship.
Understand That You’re Not Alone
It is normal to feel left out when you first enter the working world. You’re surrounded by professionals, you hear acronyms and terms that you’re not familiar with, and your personal experience may not fit the needs of your employer or organisation.
Guess what? Everyone went through the same feeling when they first started. You may feel hopeless and helpless but you have to remember that you’re not alone.
Eventually, you’ll adapt. Everyone does. And if you’re feeling pressured about your tasks, remember that you’re there to learn.
If You Don’t Know, Ask
There will be times when it feels like too much. Instead of getting drowned in your own helplessness, remember that you’re surrounded by people who can guide you.
Take the initiative to approach your supervisors so you can solve your doubts. Listen to your instructions and learn to speak up if there is a question in mind
As an intern, people will always expect you to ask questions instead of being the know-it-all that knows everything about the organisation. Your employers will appreciate the fact that you care about the job and want to know more.
Prepare For Change
You will need to adapt to the rapidly changing pace of a working environment. As a student, we are given a lot of freedom and we have an option to do our assignments at our own pace.
But in the outside world, there’s no option for delays and late excuses. If you keep lagging behind, your colleagues may swiftly develop a negative impression of you. So before you even go for your internship, train yourself to be fast and accurate with your studies.
You’ll kill two birds with one stone because you’ll learn to submit your assignments early while train yourself to be a better employee in the future.
Be Positive (and Nice)
Your own mentality is the most important part of facing your internship. Blame games and complaints are not going to do anything, except pull you further down the drain.
It’s also good to build a connection with all the employees surrounding us. These people might be your future references and provide guidance and help throughout your internship. A simple “Hi” and smile in every morning is a daily basis for you to invite yourself to engage with the employees and show your friendliness so that people will feel easy to engage with you and get along with you.
PRIORITISE!
There are times where you’ll be given a lot of tasks. Learn to prioritise according to their deadlines – the task that is more crucial or has a shorter deadline has to be done first.
It helps if you jot down the tasks with their deadlines into a list. You’ll be able to refer to your list and avoid forgetting other tasks that need to be completed. Try apps like TickTick, or even the traditional pen and notepad.
Use Your Time Wisely
As an intern, there are two scenarios that you may face. Depending on the day – or even the hour – you may have a stack of work on your table or you may absolutely have no work at all.
Certain tasks might not be assigned to you because you’re less experienced. In order to use your time wisely, you can make yourself useful by approaching your superiors to volunteer for other tasks. Again, they’ll appreciate your effort.
Alternatively, read journals or search for educational material that will improve your knowledge in the field.
So take it from me: don’t look at your internship as a problem. Instead, look at it as a training ground for you to build your strength and develop as a professional within your field. As long as you are properly prepared, the internship will be a journey for you to discover your passions and interests in your career field. Good luck!
