End your internship in flying colors
After two months of Xeroxing, running errands and getting to know what it's like to be a full-time worker, your summer internship is swiftly coming to an end. Where did the time go? Before you get nostalgic and listen to "Bittersweet Symphony," you might want to think about how to end your job with a bang. Don't settle for a swift wave goodbye - take full advantage of the time you've devoted to your paid or unpaid internship by following these simple guidelines:
Get a recommendation
Your supervisors have mentored you throughout the internship experience, and if you've made a good impression on them, you should ask them for a recommendation. Whether you're going into your sophomore year at school or plan on graduating next spring, having a strong evaluation from a previous internship is a great supplement to a job application. This will show your boss that you're serious about pursuing a strong career. Additionally, managers are usually ready and willing to write a recommendation for their interns.
Network
After joining LinkedIn and updating your profile to reflect your job experience, be sure to add coworkers and higher-ups to your list of connections. Before packing up your desk trinkets, try to collect phone numbers and email addresses so when you get back to campus in the fall you can keep in touch. You don't have to send them emails every day (actually, don't do that at all), but you could drop a line once or twice a semester and update them with what courses you're taking and how you've been.
Show your appreciation
Say thank you. That doesn't mean you have to bake a cake or chocolate chip cookies (although it can't hurt), but you should definitely get a card and write a heartfelt note of appreciation. Your higher-ups have sacrificed a fair amount of time to mentor you and make sure you get the most of the internship - show them that you care. They'll remember you for your kindness.
Leave an impression
Don't leave your internship without introducing yourself to the head of the company. So many student employees are too shy to stretch out their hand to higher-ups, but if you simply drop your name or have a four-minute conversation with some powerful professionals, you will leave a lasting impression once you leave. Doing this could be beneficial if you want to apply for a full-time position at the same company after you graduate.
