What advice would you give to future interns? How did your internship benefit you? What tips/suggestions do you have for future KU interns?

Chris W:

One of the best things you can do is to stay busy. Bring in old work and improve upon it. Don’t stop asking questions. Have fun!

Lena:

I believe every student at every university in the world should be required to complete an internship. What you learn in an actual work experience is beyond what you would learn somewhere else. I would also recommend that students apply for internships at places they respect or admire. I interned at a public radio station that I have listened to and supported my entire life. Working here felt like an honor. Students should not just go for whatever internship is easiest, they should aim high and go for a place they will really be proud of. I also want other KU students to remember that an internship is more than just "working for free" or "making coffee." I gained more in my internship than money could buy and I never had to make coffee. If you hit the ground running from day one and show initiative and passion and interest in your area, you will impress people enough for them to relieve you of your coffee duties and give you the chance to put your energy and talents into something worthwhile and exciting. I took every assignment I was given with enthusiasm even if it was not something I wanted to do. My supervisor and I became very close and she gave me life lessons every day. One that has stuck with me is when she told me about work ethic and drive. She said, "If the only job you can find is one as a ditch digger, be the best ditch digger imaginable. Dig the deepest ditches, and never complain. Every position has worth. And if you work hard at even the most unimportant job, do it to the best of your ability and someone will take notice." I think that is true and I think interns should remember that. Some of you will have to make photocopies, or run errands, or make coffee, or file papers. But do those things in the best way you can because when someone takes notice, opportunities will open up for you. But if nothing else, remember that graduating during these times is not easy. So if you impress one person it will go a long way. Work hard to get good references and recommendations. If you don't, you will be just some other sorry graduate that can't get a job.
My one last tip is to take a 6 or 9 credit internship. While 3 credit internships are still valuable, I would recommend taking a larger one. I completed a 9 credit internship of 450 hours. If I had only taken a 3, I would have learned so little and would not have developed nearly as much as a professional.

Chris F:

Don't come in with an attitude! Come in with an open mind and be more than happy to challenge any and all tasks that are given to you with a smile on your face. Be out going and just be yourself.