Memoirs of an Intern: Lessons learned

I am just days away from completing my summer internship at the ONE Campaign — an experience that has been nothing short of thrilling, game-changing, and fun.

This is the third internship I’ve held — all of which have been with NGOs — and needless to say I have picked up on some wisdom along the way.

Each internship experience has brought something different to the table. I have learned and grown as both a professional and a person. Below, I reflect on what lessons I’ve learned the past 3 years as an intern in the nation’s capital.

So take these lessons with a grain of salt — or make them your newest mantra. They are not hard and fast rules, but they are an honest testament to navigating through organizations as a young professional.

1. When people ask for your opinion on something — whether it is a company decision, the latest story in the news, or where to grab lunch — give it. If you don’t understand, ask a question. If you don’t have an opinion, think of one on the spot. It’s embarrassing and awkward when a conversation comes to a grinding halt when someone asks you what you think, and you mumble “I’m not sure” while pretending to be in deep thought. Bottom line — have opinions. If they welcome debate, even better. People will respect you for speaking your mind and doing your research. That being said, remain open to other people’s opinions.
2. Repeat people’s names to yourself (or out loud) when you meet them. Write them down. Make up a poem. Whatever it is — remember names and use them, frequently. People will take note when you recall their name after just chatting by the coffee machine.
3. Speaking of names, if you answer a phone call and take a message, always write down the person’s first and last name, a phone number or e-mail, and the reason they are calling. Always. Don’t pick up a phone unless you have a pen and piece of paper in front of you. Actually, always have a pen a notebook with you. At all times.
4. Ask people questions about themselves and their families before you talk about yourself and your family. This is self-explanatory. Think about how much you love talking about yourself and your family. How thrilled would be if someone actually invited you to talk about yourself in a conversation? Exactly.
5. Don’t apply for positions that you’re fully qualified for — you will get bored. Apply for the next level up and prove why you’re cut out for it. Every working experience should be a growing experience — professionally and personally. You shouldn’t be 100% comfortable in every position that you take. If you feel overwhelmed, it’s probably a good sign.
6. Always ere on the side of more formal than casual in e-mails, letters, whatever it may be. The same goes for what you wear, it’s better to be overdressed than underdressed and more formal than sounding as if you’re texting your best friend.
7. Create a self brand. Have a presence on social media. Google yourself and see what comes up. Future employers, regardless of your field, will judge you on this. My golden rule for posting pictures on any social media? Would I show this to my mother? How about my grandfather? I age myself by saying this, but once you post a picture it is out there for good. Don’t trust privacy settings or filters.
8. Find a professional association and become a member. The resources, connections, and inevitable receptions with free food will be worth it. Learn how to network. Learn to love it.
9. If you’re researching a topic — save your google searches. You’ll be thankful when your 3 hours deep and on page 32 of a search that you have to resume the next day.
10. Always ask the question, “At what cost?” when making decisions. Pose this question to others. They will be impressed with your foresight and thought.
11. Do things that make you uncomfortable. You will grow.
12. Always send thank you notes. This is such a small gesture that people often overlook, but it makes a world of difference. After an interview, either over the phone or in person, just drop a simple e-mail thanking the person for taking the time to meet with you. Want to stand out among a large pool of applicants? This is one of the easiest ways.