An internship is more than just a line on your CV — it’s a stepping stone to your future career.
Whether you’re completing your internship in London, Rome, Berlin, or remotely, knowing how to make the most of your internship can make all the difference in building skills, gaining confidence, and landing your next opportunity.
Here’s a complete guide to help you make the most of your internship experience, no matter where you’re placed.
1. Set Clear Goals Before You Start
Before your first day, take 15 minutes to write down:
- What you want to learn
- The skills you want to develop
- Any specific experiences you want (e.g., presenting in a meeting, managing a project)
Setting goals gives your internship purpose and direction. It also helps you track your progress and reflect on your growth.
Example goal: “I want to improve my communication skills by contributing to at least one team meeting per week.”
2. Be Proactive From Day One
Interns who get the most out of their placement don’t wait for tasks — they ask for them. Show initiative by:
- Volunteering for small tasks
- Asking team members how you can help
- Following up on projects you’ve contributed to
Being proactive shows that you’re curious, dependable, and ready to learn — qualities that employers love.
3. Ask Questions (Even the Obvious Ones)
Internships are for learning, not pretending to know everything.
If you’re unsure about something:
- Ask for clarification
- Take notes
- Summarize what you’ve understood
This shows you’re paying attention, thinking critically, and willing to grow. Managers prefer an intern who asks good questions!
4. Build Real Connections
Your internship isn’t just about the work — it’s also about who you meet.
Take time to:
- Introduce yourself to colleagues
- Join company events or socials
- Ask professionals about their career path
The people you meet could become mentors, references, or even future colleagues. Networking during your internship often leads to job offers later.
5. Stay Organized and Keep Track of Your Work
Document what you work on during your internship:
- Keep a weekly log of tasks and achievements
- Save examples of your work (if allowed)
- Write down feedback from your supervisor
This makes it easier to update your resume and LinkedIn profile later — and helps you prepare for future interviews.
6. Stay Professional, Always
Even if your workplace is casual, maintain a professional attitude:
- Arrive on time
- Communicate clearly and respectfully
- Take feedback with a positive mindset
Professionalism builds trust and respect. It also improves your chances of receiving a strong recommendation or extension.
7. Reflect Before You Leave
In your final week, ask yourself:
- What did I learn?
- What would I do differently?
- What do I want next in my career?
Also, schedule a final check-in with your supervisor. Ask for feedback and express gratitude.
These final impressions matter.
Final Thoughts: Your Internship Is What You Make of It
Whether you’re doing an Erasmus internship or a short-term summer placement, how to make the most of your internship comes down to mindset and effort. Set clear goals, take initiative, be curious, build relationships, and stay professional.
If you’re planning your internship abroad and want support every step of the way, theInterna helps students and young professionals find the right internships, get prepared for real-world work, and build international careers with confidence.
