How to … Make the most of an internship

Learnerships and internships are a great way to get into an industry, but the process can be overwhelming.

“[They] help shape raw potential into real creative contribution ... If you’ve landed an internship — or you’re hoping to — [there are things to do to help you] show up, stand out, and set yourself up for success,” says Rialene Nel, junior art director at VML South Africa, who started at the agency as an intern.

She advises:

• Expect to be nervous because it can be scary, but you will benefit from sticking it out;
• Interns are not expected to know everything, that’s why they are interns — relax and be prepared to learn;
• Volunteer to help and ask lots of questions, don’t stay on the sidelines;
• Watch how the veteran employees do things and learn;
• Even the smallest task is a learning experience, so embrace everything you do as an intern;
• Things can get tense, a sense of humour will help you cope; and
• Keep showing up, even when it’s hard