A Guide for Thriving in Your First Internship

By Ruqqayah Khaliq

A woman wearing glasses is smiling in front of a stack of books.

Starting an internship can be both scary and exciting; you may even feel a case of impostor syndrome. You’re stepping into a new space, trying to make a good impression, figuring out many things as you go. It's a lot, but a rewarding way to learn about the type of professional you want to be. Whether you are entering your first year as an intern or stacking up internships like books over the last few summers, here are a few things that helped me make the most of the experience, from surviving day one with little knowledge to being able to lead with confidence.

Understand Expectations

You are setting yourself up for success.

Ask questions. Ask Again. No one expects you to have all the answers.
Schedule check-ins with your manager. It helps keep you and your goals on track.
Figure out what a “win” can look like for your role.

One conversation can lead you to a new project to jump into!

Take Initiative

Showing initiative shows that you are willing to learn.

Finished a task early? Ask what else you can jump in on.
See a problem? Think through a fix. Bring solutions, not problems.
Ask for feedback so that you can apply it in the future.

Some of my favorite projects I have worked on have been the result of my taking initiative.

Build Relationships

Networking is a vital.

Introduce yourself, yes, even if it’s awkward.
Have an “elevator pitch” ready just in case. You never know who can help you on this journey.
Go to networking events. Seek people on LinkedIn to build your circle.

Keep connections alive! The mentor who helped guide my decision in solidifying my role at Elevate+ was someone I met through a past internship.

Time Management

You can’t give your best if you’re constantly overwhelmed.

Break your day up. Use Google Calendar, reminders on your phone, and ask Alexa to set an alarm. There are so many ways to stay on top of your time.
Prioritize what needs to be done now vs later.
If you are feeling behind, speak up. People are more understanding when you communicate.

I spent hours stressing needlessly over a project that, in the end, wasn't that big a deal. If only I had asked my manager, I could have saved myself the stress.

Learn and Grow

Internships are about learning and professional success.

Take notes; do not rely solely on your memory.
Try something new, even if it is out of your comfort zone.
Reflect: What did I learn today? What do I wish to know more about? What can I do differently tomorrow?

Challenging myself to learn a new skill that wasn’t in my job description led me to discover my new favorite skill, which I can now bring to my next role.

Seek Feedback

Feedback is vital for growth.

Actively seek feedback from your manager.
Be open to constructive criticism and view it as a learning opportunity.
Applying what you are learning shows that you are growing.

Seek feedback, it doesn’t just come from your managers. Ask your peers; it is equally important to ask them the right questions. Formal or informal feedback all has value!

Internships are more than what you can put on your resume. From what I have experienced, this is the space to figure out what you are searching for, what challenges you, and what path may be right for you. So ask questions. Always give that awkward intro. Pitch the idea that may be a little crazy. Show your growth. Because you are more than “just an intern,” we are future leaders in the making.

About the Author

A woman wearing a black and white sweater with the word team on it

Ruqayyah Khaliq is a Communications major at Rutgers University and a Marketing Intern with Elevate+, where she helps tell the stories of our interns through content creation and strategic outreach. She brings a passion for inclusive communication and a collaborative spirit to everything she does.

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Showing Up Is Only the First Step

By Aguie Barrantes • July 8, 2026

Walking into a networking event alone is not exactly comfortable. I didn't know anyone, and I wasn't sure I belonged there. But somewhere between the first conversation and the second, that feeling changed. This summer, as the Marketing & Communications Intern at Elevate+ , I've learned that internships are about much more than completing projects. Managing and developing the Intern Spotlight posts, creating social media content, and building a content calendar and other marketing materials, including this blog post, have strengthened my organization, creativity, and communication skills. My biggest takeaway has been that building a personal brand starts before anyone is watching . Outside of Elevate+, one of my professors from Seton Hall introduced me to the opportunity to attend a two-day networking event at Next League. While I was nervous at first, I reminded myself that growth comes from stepping outside your comfort zone . Connecting with students and professionals across the sports industry showed there isn't one path to success. Alongside Elevate+, I’ve also balanced two other part-time jobs with FC Motown and Momento. Whether it’s working long hours in the summer heat or adjusting to unexpected changes during a live event, I’ve learned that success comes from being adaptable and thinking on the fly. These experiences have shown me that the most valuable growth happens when you’re willing to step up and show up , regardless of the circumstances. Looking back on the first half of the summer, I’ve realized that my biggest growth hasn't come from checking projects off a list. It's come from putting myself in unfamiliar situations, asking questions, and embracing opportunities that once felt intimidating . As I head into the second half of the summer, my goal is to be more intentional about following up with the professionals I meet. I've had the opportunity to connect with many people, but I want those conversations to turn into meaningful, lasting relationships. Showing up is only the first step; following up is what makes a connection memorable .