8 ways to be an unforgettable intern or volunteer this summer
As summer begins so do internships or volunteerships throughout the world. Having interned in various history organizations during the last few years, I felt it may be helpful to share some things I have learned. I hope that they will not only help make your time a great experience for you and the organization, but also help you get the most out of it and be proud to list it on your resume.
- First, if you have not done so prior to your interview, check the mission and vision of the organization. This will give you an idea of where they are now and where they hope to be in the future. This will also help you to determine areas where you can contribute and suggest new projects.
- If you are assigned to one particular program area, do your best to complete assigned tasks and fulfill what is expected. Yet, also let them know you want to learn as much about what they do as possible and would like to get experience in other areas as well.
- If they have outreach activities volunteer to participate. These are a great way to meet the organization’s customers and polish your communication skills.
- Ultimately, you want to demonstrate that you are the momentum behind their mission and are there to help them make their vision a reality.
- To make your mark when working on a project or event, ask yourself “what would make this even better?” Write down your ideas and present them. If it is approved start putting your plans into place. Don’t worry if it is ambitious, you can edit later.
- Don’t reinvent the wheel, if a project or event has been done before ask for examples of what was done previously. Use them as a starting point, but make your goal to exceed expectations and put your unique spin on the assignment.
- Don’t be afraid to ask questions and request any resources that they think might be useful to you throughout the process.
- Last but not least, it maybe hard sometimes but try to keep up your enthusiasm through some of the less interesting tasks you are given—this will be noticed.
By putting to use some of the tips above you may look forward to a summer of interest and a little excitement before heading back to school in the fall. If you have more ideas I would love to hear from you.
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I have been interning for the last 4 years because it is a requirement for my college. I think you are missing two crucial points in having a successful
1. Do not be afraid of your coworkers. Just like you, they enjoy social interaction and personal conversations. Don’t spend all day socializing, but take the time to get to know the people around you because they can teach you more than you may give them credit for. It is also good practice for networking.
2. My company spends a lot of money on interns and I have been one of up to 13 in the building. Nobody appreciates when an intern comes in and believes that he/she can do no wrong. Confidence is great, but don’t be arrogant.
Heather Ann
June 24, 2009
Thanks Heather Ann, I think those are some important points to add.
latubeh
June 24, 2009