A Few Tips on Getting the Most Out of Your Internship...

So you've landed your first internship. You are probably feeling a variety of emotions - You're excited, a little nervous, and perhaps feel completely unprepared. But do not worry, because I have left you with a few things I have learned to ensure that you have the best internship experience.

1. Do your best work on all projects, no matter how big or small they are: Everybody has to start somewhere, and if you are starting out with your hand permanently attached to a file cabinet, that's okay! It's important to learn that even the most menial tasks can lead to big results. As you get more comfortable doing the simple things, it's very likely that your employer will become more comfortable giving you more important projects.

2. Always ask what else you can do to help: Once you're finished with a task, ask what else you can do to help. You should be looking for things to do, that way you can take full advantage of the learning opportunities you have been given.

3. Don't have a panic attack if you make a mistake: It will happen eventually. There is no need to get upset because you are expected to make a few mistakes down the road, and it's these mistakes that will help you learn. So when it does happen, take a few breaths, and learn how to fix your mistake.

4. Ask questions: If you don't understand something, ask for some clarification. You're new at this and although you may think you know all there is to know, chances are - you don't. So don't be afraid to admit you don't understand something or may need more explanation.

5. Get to know your coworkers: Getting to know your coworkers makes the workday a lot more enjoyable. After all, if they are working in the same industry as you, chances are you may have similar interests. Also, forming good relationships in the office can lead to future business contacts down the road.

Hopefully these tips will help all those internship-seekers out there to have a better understanding of what to expect and how to react in different situations. It's been a great summer for me at Keating Magee - I've learned a lot and am leaving with a better understanding of the business I hope to one day be a part of.