What is an internship, anyway?
An internship is a short-term paid or unpaid work experience that translates what a student has learned in the classroom into valuable working knowledge. Internships are a great way for exploring careers and gaining information for the future.
Explore Indiana's INTERNnet, where college students and Indiana employers connect for valuable internship experiences:
Advice from Indiana INTERNnet
A few tips for interns to ensure a positive, rewarding experience from Lauren DeWell, Indiana INTENnet consultant:
- Be aware of your abilities, but don’t be afraid to challenge yourself or ask for more difficult assignments. Remember that your primary goal is to learn, and that won’t happen if you allow yourself to get stuck alphabetizing files.
- Take advantage of every opportunity that comes your way. In your short time as an intern, make an effort to meet as many people as possible, attend as many professional events as you can, and work on a variety of projects. These experiences are a great way to expand your professional network.
- Ask for feedback. It is important to meet with your supervisor on a regular basis and discuss your performance. Don’t get discouraged by constructive criticism—it will help you become a better employee.
- Set a schedule and stick to it, but don’t forget that conflicts arise. School comes first, and your supervisor should understand that.
- Never be afraid to ask questions.
Gain Experience by Job Shadowing
These hints will help you make the most of job shadowing and help you gain experience for the future.
Spend a whole day or part of a day at work with someone in a career that interests you. You can follow that person throughout the workday and observe what she or he does.
At appropriate times during the day, ask questions about their work and about the workplace. Make a list of possible questions in advance and write down other questions as they come up throughout the day.
Tips for Job Shadowing
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Show up on time.
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Dress up. You don't have to be formal. Nice pants and a clean shirt or blouse will do most of the time.
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Take a notebook and pen or pencil to write notes.
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Get involved and be positive.
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Write a thank you note afterwards.