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What are the best ways to prepare yourself for a summer internship?

I am looking possibly to apply to tech related internships for summer before college, are there some aspects of internships I should consider or prepare for?

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Michelle’s Answer

Hi,

First off - an internship at any point in time is a great opportunity to learn as much as you can about a specific job, while also learning soft skills that can be applied across other professions. Don't be afraid to apply for a position, even if you think you may not qualify, get the position, or may not be totally committed to the job itself. One of the great parts of an internship is the insight you gain into the potential career and career path with the ability to still change your mind if you don't fully enjoy what you did.

To be ready for an internship, you will want to be fully committed - both to the time commitment, as well as the job itself and those you are working with. You will want to give 100% on a daily basis, as that is the only way for you to get the most out of the whole experience, and it may even end up in a fulltime job offer. Be willing to ask questions and be open to advice or suggestions from those who you work with, and don't be afraid to use them as valuable resources to learn from.

Lastly, don't be afraid to fail. Internships by nature are meant for you to learn, and nobody expects constant perfection. However, if you have a positive attitude and learn from your mistakes - it will go a long way in your career and personal development.

Best of luck!
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Jenna’s Answer

Hi Jayden!

I am currently a student that has experience with internships. I would say a big thing to consider is scheduling and the workload. Ask yourself, “What does your schedule look like this summer? Do you have any other obligations you would have to tend to?” It’s important to make sure you have time to dedicate towards your work. Another thing to consider is your current skillset and how an internship would allow you to use those skills and expand upon them.

Even if there is a position that you may not fully be interested in, still apply! It could still be a wonderful opportunity and you never know what you might get out of it! Any internship you get is a great learning opportunity that prepares you for the workforce.

Hope this helps and good luck!
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Natasha’s Answer

Hi Jayden,

In my experience, internships are a super valuable to learn about a company and get first-hand work experience.
Firstly, ensure that the internships are at a time where you can fully commit
Secondly, once you start the internship ensure you make the most of the time and show the best work you can do. Oftentimes, companies will use interns for future hiring pools so it's important to make the most of the experience. You can do this through being proactive - asking for work from your supervise & showing that you can meet deadlines, using the time to network - find out what they do in the company & what are career opportunities, become a strong team member and become invaluable to the team!

Good luck!
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Stephanie’s Answer

These answers are being submitted on behalf of a group of student interns at Cloudera:

Once you complete your resume, have other people review it and give feedback before submitting it on the application.
Prepare for your interviews by practicing common interview questions. Look up videos to learn best tips and interview etiquette.
Make sure to check your emails to stay on top of all the information you need to know.
Don't be afraid to ask questions or ask for help if you need clarification.
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Lisa’s Answer

Hello

Congratulations on the internship

Do your research on the firm you will be working with so you know what they are about, the culture, expectations.
Be prepared to work hard and don't be afraid to ask questions.

Good Luck!
Lisa
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Lisa’s Answer

- Speak to alums in the company
- Take time off to energize and mentally prepare for internship
- Get excited to learn!
- Read up on industry/company news
- Looked up LinkedIn profiles / fellow team member
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Gloria’s Answer

Hi Jayden,

I have not been an intern, however, I have worked with interns. I agree with others who have pointed out making sure to research the company that you are interning with. You should have some basic knowledge about what the company does really well, what the company cares about, and learn about the company culture. You will learn some of it when you start, however, you should come in with that knowledge. You should also be prepared to interact with other interns. You are all going on the same journey together even if you are in different departments. Network with your fellow interns to learn about what is happening throughout the company. The other considerations are things outside of the office - how long does it take you to work? Will your internship interrupt important life events? If you know that you are taking a family vacation, the best part is bringing it up as early as possible when you are interviewing for an internship. Internships sometimes have timed elements. We have had internships where specific tasks are done weekly over an 8-week period. You don't want to miss a week or even a few days in some internships.

Gloria
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Vanessa’s Answer

Hello,

Make sure to take it seriously as if it were a new fulltime job. You may or may not be working for money, but you definitely want to earn an excellent reference and build great relationships (that you may use in networking later). Sometimes the person who hired you for the internship or managed you during the internship will move to another company that is looking for great employees and they will remember you. It can also happen with your coworker - who later becomes a manager or an business owner in need good people to be a part of their team.

So be on time, exercise good time management, have good hygiene, look and dress the part and always be respectful.

I hope this helps!
Best,
Vanessa
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Ka'Pri’s Answer

Hi!

As a current student intern, I would like to share some insights with you. Research the company that you are interested in. Discover aspects that align with you as that will be excellent motivation as well as something to discuss with the employees there. Use your transferable skills such as time management, communication, and problem solving. These can be of great assistance. Always ask questions both in general and when you are unsure of something. It is best to know for sure than to assume or not know at all.
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