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Student life

How to get ready for your first internship

Portrait of student Ana Borisova
Ana Borisova Reading time Minutes

Go through the exam period, find an internship, adapt to a new country... as current international students at Saxion, we've been in your shoes! Here is a list of tips and insights to help you navigate the ups and downs of student life abroad.

Starting your first internship as a university student can be an exciting yet overwhelming experience. It's a great opportunity to gain valuable experience and make connections in your field, but it can also be challenging to navigate the new environment and manage the added stress of a new role. That is why based on the experience that I have acquired from my two internships I would like to help you out with some tips that will make your first internship experience more enjoyable and manageable:

1. Be open to new opportunities

Internships are a great opportunity to learn and grow. So try to get out of your comfort zone and explore different internship options, even if you are not perfectly qualified for them, as you might end up surprising yourself. At the end of the day you know what is best for yourself and do not be afraid to go after it!

2. Set realistic expectations for yourself

It is very important to always remind yourself that internships are a learning experience that will help you get your foot in the industry and that you may not have all the skills and knowledge you need from the start. So please be kind and patient with yourself and acknowledge that it is normal to make mistakes.

3. Prioritize your personal development

Internships are your best source of knowledge and experience, focusing on yourself is crucial to improve, learn and develop your skills. Don’t be afraid to be a little selfish and do what is best for you and always remember that communication can come a long way to help you make the right decisions so if you have any questions don’t hesitate to talk to your teachers, friends or family.

4. Practice self-care and time management

As a university student, you may already have a lot on your plate such as assignments, hobbies, additional work or even maintaining healthy relationships. Make sure to prioritize self-care and time management. This means setting boundaries and allowing yourself to invest your energy not only in your professional life, but in your personal life as well. This will prevent you from burning out, which will have a major impact on your internship experience and your overall happiness.

5. Don’t forget to have fun!

Remember that internships are also an opportunity for you to grow your social circle and meet new friends and people. At the workplace having fun and being yourself is always looked up to because it will boost the team spirit, as well as greatly increase your productivity.

Your first internship is a fantastic opportunity to gain valuable experience, make connections and kickstart your career. Embrace this chance with open arms and make the most of it. Set yourself up for success by being open to new opportunities. Remember, internships are a learning experience, so don't be afraid to make mistakes and ask for help when needed. This is your time to shine, make an impact and take your first steps towards achieving your professional goals. So go out there, be confident and make your mark in your field!

Portrait of student Ana Borisova

Ana Borisova

Ana is a fourth-year student in Tourism Management, from Bulgaria. Connect with her on LinkedIn!

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