By Cindy Morand, 22, reporting from New York, NY, on how to make an internship pay
I hear you. The toughest thing about an internship is that it is nearly by definition unpaid. As someone who's done several of these, I know that's frustrating, and for some people, just unworkable.
If you can pull it off financially, it's all true what they tell you about gaining valuable experience.
And perhaps even a paying job at the end.
Plus, internships are about exploration, a career-starting chance to test-drive a workplace or entire industry you might not even know existed. My favorite site for information on internships—they rank hundreds—is here. There's even a "Top 10 Most Unusual Experiences" category. (NASA or Wolf Trap Foundation for the Performing Arts, anyone?)
Should you find yourself in a seriously air-conditioned office this summer—I'm at the Federal Reserve—here are a few quick strategies (if not paychecks) I've picked up toward making the most of your internship:
Find a Mentor, Make Friends. I strongly encourage you to network with colleagues in your department, as you can learn about the different roles in your area—and people like it when you share a passion for what they happen to have chosen to do with their lives. A pro you connect with is apt to teach you tons and champion you in their industry (or at least write you a letter of reference).
Look Smart. Always appearing professional goes beyond the obvious about no revealing clothes or flip-flops. Wear jewelry that people can see not hear. Surprise them by being the most, rather than the least, conservative dresser in your department. Skip the perfume, because you never know who the person next to you will associate with a particular scent. Always have a pen and notebook on you; take notes.
Ask Questions (But Not Too Many). I know you are smart, but you are not supposed to know everything and employers are aware of that. If something is unclear, ask, in this order: the Internet, a trusted colleague or your supervisor. Google goes first. Only direct questions to your manager if you cannot find answers elsewhere, or you truly don't understand unless you get the information first-hand. Look up terms you don't know. Believe me, I did not enter this internship speaking Federal Reserve. I've recently Googled "P&I," "collaterized debt obligation (CDO)" and "healthcare reimbursements," and no one's the wiser but me.
Use Social Media for Good—Not Gossip. Coming from your generation, you might have more social media knowledge than some of your older colleagues; if this is the case, volunteer your expertise. However, never put anything about your job on the Internet—no tweeting, no Facebook posting, no blogging. Just don't. It lives there forever, the CEO of your company can read it, and you want to impress them with the same integrity and discretion you demonstrate in the real world office.