Finance

10 MUSTs for a summer internship!

Summer for students is holiday and relaxation time.

This traditional view is irrelevant for those undergoing summer internships.

If you belong to this large and growing tribe, read on for some useful pointers to get the best out of this experience.

1. Your summer internship is your problem

Often, there is a lack of direction.

Issues like the guide not having enough time, unclear goals, lack of resources are widespread.

In such a situation, remember, it is your project and yours alone. Tackle these problems proactively and creatively.

The argument that 'the company did not provide support and guidance', will not convince those recruiting you later.

2. Set SMART goals

Setting clear project goals is the first step.

Usually, the company and intern are aware of what they need.

But this may not be clearly expressed, leading to confusion when the project is well under way.

The SMART criteria are widely used by most organisations to avoid this. When expanded, this reads:

S - Specific

M - Measurable

A - Action oriented

R - Realistic

T - Timebound

Each goal should be tested to meet the above requirements. If it doesn't, it may need revision.

3. Let the side work be side work

Internship involves a variety of mundane tasks. These are vital because they help cement strong workplace relationships.

They also convey softer skills, like attitude and teamwork.

Anubhav Srivastav, senior analyst at Accenture, expresses it clearly when he says, "These small tasks are key confidence-building measures, though one should not lose track of the project."

4. Keep a journal

Can you recollect what you were doing this date exactly two months ago?

Unlikely, if it was a regular day. As internship is spread over a long period, maintaining a journal that is updated daily or weekly is very useful.

Mansi Sirja, an MBA-degree holder who secured an offer with Shoppers' Stop, says, "I kept a journal that had the date, the person I met and the topic. This made preparing the final report simple as the data could be easily collated."

5. Keep your guide posted

This is the most important person in your internship.

Even if s/he is unable to dedicate time, it is your duty to keep him/her posted.

This could be done orally or, if travelling, through e-mail/ mail. S/he is also helpful in mid-course correction if your project is losing focus.

Besides, keeping your guide posted can help create a rapport which could start a fruitful long term corporate relationship.

6. Look for accommodation in hostels

Obtaining accommodation for the duration of an internship can be difficult.

In most cities, however, schools and colleges with hostel facility let you stay over at a reasonable price as their classes are closed for summer holidays.

But these hostels have selective admission criteria and certain regulations, like time limits, that should be examined before putting up.

7. Get A College Letter

A simple letter from the college stating that you are a bonafide student doing an internship can open many doors.

It helps in two ways:

i. If you are collecting information from a rival company and cannot reveal your organisation, it provides an alternative introduction.

ii. If you need to prove you are genuinely a student needing