Your first-day experience in an organisation as an intern may not be easy owing to anxiety and excitement. As an opportunity to acquire the skills and experiences needed to develop your career thus, you need to make the best of it and prepare for an internship as an international student. Here are some tips for international students to make the first day of internship a unique one.
1. Research extensively about the Industry
It is necessary that you have extensive knowledge of the organisation particularly the department you will engage with the most. Learn all you from its website, social media channels, recent news headlines, reviews and feedback from users or customers where possible.
Learn about the nature of work in the department, its objectives, the name of your head, and other relevant information. This way, you’ll enjoy an easier transition into the organization and encounter minimal difficulty getting along its the staff.
2. Be Inquisitive
It’s important that you ask intelligent questions as an intern, this gives you the opportunity to learn more about the organization. Even if you are an introvert, be curious enough to want to learn something new on your first day at the internship. This shows that you’re interested in the organization and in developing your career.
3. Dress the Part
Do not take how you appear on your first day and the rest of the days of your internship lightly. If the organization has a dress code, you can dress in line with the code. The bottom line is that you dress appropriately and wear something that makes you feel comfortable.
Note that the way you dress sends a strong signal and can give a positive or negative impression about you. This is one important way international students can prepare for the internship.
4. What To Bring
Ther are essential items you need to bring to your new workplace. They include:
- A notepad.
- A pen (you can have an extra just in case).
- Your supervisor’s contact information.
- A snack (just in case you get hungry).
- A travel size deodorant (this could really come in handy especially in the summer).
- Minted bubble gum or candy to keep your breath fresh and minty.
- Public transport schedules to help you maintain punctuality to work.
- Any other important document or item.
5. Maintain Decorum Ignore your Phone
It is rude, disrespectful and unprofessional to be busy with your mobile device when you should be working. It’s also inappropriate to do so when you should be attentive to your supervisor and co-workers. Keep your phone away at such times; it’s professional, respectful and shows decorum.
6. Contact your Supervisor
To prepare for an internship as International Students, tt’s crucial to know what you are expected to take with you on your first day. You may have to fill out forms, provide some sort of identification or other items. Double-check with your supervisor to be sure you have all you need to start on a good note.
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