During Your Internship
A large part of your internship experience includes practicing and strengthening professional behavior. Below are some tips on what to expect and how to prepare.
Practicing Professionalism
Dress
Dress professionally and appropriately for the work environment where you are interning.
Policies & Procedures
Understand the company’s policies and procedures, and ask for clarification if needed.
Confidentiality
Consider information and projects confidential. You may be asked to sign something.
Preparation
Show up to meetings prepared, always take notes to remember information and instructions, and have your part of the project prepared.
Schedule
Adhere to a work schedule determined by you and your supervisor and be on time!
Attitude
Stay positive and maintain a good attitude. People notice and remember the intern with the friendly demeanor.
Focus
Keep phones on silent and avoid doing personal work. Remember, you are there to learn and absorb everything you can. Be fully present and avoid distractions.
Initiative
Take Initiative! We hear this advice from employers all the time.
Ask to be on a project that interests you.
Ask to attend meetings and events.
Ask questions! You are not expected to know everything!
Learn everything you can while you are there.
Wrapping Up Your Experience
Schedule a closing conversation with your supervisor
This allows you to get feedback on your performance, learn about where your strengths are, and identify areas you may want to continue developing.
Ask to use work in your portfolio
Have a conversation with your supervisor and clarify what work, if any, you are able to show.
Send a formal thank-you email
Show your supervisor and others at the organization your gratitude for the internship experience.
Complete necessary paperwork
Fill out any forms that the company requires in addition to the forms you need for Creative Careers if you are receiving credit for your internship. Review the Grading Requirements for more information.
Ask for a letter of recommendation
If you have a good relationship with your supervisor or another colleague at your internship, ask them if they would be willing to provide a letter of recommendation or request a recommendation on LinkedIn.
Return any company property
Make sure anything you’ve used during your internship is returned to the organization before you leave.
Collect Contact Information
Ask members of the organization if you can stay in touch with them even after the internship. Ask to connect with them on LinkedIn. Add these contacts to your Research Strategy template.
Update Your Resume and LinkedIn
Add this internship experience to your resume while it’s fresh in your mind. See our Resume Writing resources for examples.