New Job, New House, New Summer

Hey Everyone!! 

WE DID IT! Summer is FINALLY here. Congrats to all you graduates! And to all the underclassman – I’ll see you in the fall! Although I love WPI, I’m glad to have a bit of a break…and some nice weather (finally)! 

So last Sunday, I made the move up to good old Portland, Maine for the next three months, to complete my summer internship. It is crazy that I’m traveling away from home for my job, I feel like such a big girl.

The first day of my internship went as fast as it came. I was greeted by my mentor with a big smile and a cup of coffee. She brought me up to my work area (with my very own, official looking nametag – see below) and quickly started the training process. The day consisted of meeting many new people, fighting with the stubborn printers, and lots and lots of training videos (I was unaware of how many hazards can be found in an office setting). But I overall really like the company so far; it seems like it will be a great summer.

I know many of you are in the process of starting new internships (or for you graduates, big kid jobs). New jobs can be intimidating, disorienting, and quite simply a little scary, but starting out at a new place really allows you to establish yourself, which is very exciting!

Here are some tips for making the best out of your summer internship (or first few months at a new job):

• Ask questions – I can’t stress this enough! If you don’t know what something means ASK! Don’t assume you should know it. Asking lots of questions at the start shows you’re engaged and want to learn as much as you can.
• Find a mentor – Some companies will give you a mentor, others won’t. No matter what your situation, find someone you think will be able to show you the ropes at the company. They will become a great resource.
• Meet lots of people – Network, network, network! Go up to people in the area you work in. Take the initiative to introduce yourself. Ask them what they do and how long they’ve been there (that can tell you a lot about a company). Meeting more people will allow you to feel more a part of the company and provide future connections as well.
• Learn the lingo – MQP, IQP, BME, ECE, the Wedge –you probably remember the first week as a freshman trying to keep all of WPI’s acronyms/lingo straight. Now you’re in a new job where they’ll probably have their own lingo. It’s amazing how simply learning the language of a company can help you feel more settled in a job. I usually keep a small notebook near me the first few weeks of a new job, and write down the acronyms used.
• Communicate effectively – Keep a visible line of communication open between you and the people you work with. Send updates when necessary. Be open and honest if you need help on a project or something isn’t working for you. This is often the hardest thing to do, but practicing effective communication early will be very helpful as you further your career.
• Keep a positive attitude – Above all, a positive attitude can go a long way! There are often tasks intern or entry level positions will have to do that may not be terribly exciting (like data entries or assembling reports) but just remember, everyone has to start somewhere. Keep a positive attitude for any task you are given, and it’s bound to be noticed!

Good luck this summer and, as always, if you need any help with anything, don’t be afraid to message me or the CDC for advice!

<3 Gianna