Making the Most of Your Experience

Be Proactive. Frequently, interns get frustrated when they start their experience answering phones and making coffee.  However, these simple tasks are frequently used to prove you can do basic things.  Once you prove you can do the most simple of assignments, you will probably be given more substantive responsibilities.  So be sure to all your assignments thoroughly and with a positive attitude.  Also, always be sure to ask what you can do.  Be proactive in your role as an intern.  This sort of good behavior doesn't go unnoticed (the same can be said for poor behavior, as well).

Be Professional. This may be difficult, epecially if your intern coordinator is just a year or two older than you.  However, it is important to keep your campus (and personal) life out of the office.  Always be sure to show up to work looking professional and put together.  It shows you not only have pride in yourself, but also in your position. 

But maintain a positive attitude. People want to work around others with a good attitude.  You can still be funny and outgoing while being professional.  This kind of positive attitude is what makes interns stand out.  Anyone can answer a phone or make copies.  It's positive attitudes and proactive behavior which make connections and careers.

Stay in Touch. After your internship is over, don't hesistate to send an occasional email to your supervisor seeing how things are going.  You never know when you will need a positive reference or when their connections could result in a fuure internship or job.