The Ultimate Checklist for Concluding Your Internship on a High Note

July 29, 2024

As your internship draws to a close, it’s essential to make the most of your final weeks. This period is not just about finishing tasks but also about setting the stage for your future career. Here’s a detailed guide on what to do before you bid farewell to your internship.

1. Save Your Pay Stubs

First and foremost, ensure that you save all your pay stubs. These documents are crucial for various reasons:

Tax Purposes: Pay stubs provide a detailed record of your earnings and deductions, which will be necessary when you file your taxes.
Future Documentation: You might need proof of employment or income for future job applications, loans, or other financial matters.

Create a dedicated folder (both digital and physical, if possible) to store these documents safely.

2. Express Gratitude to Your Team

Showing appreciation is a powerful gesture that can leave a lasting impression. Take time to thank:

Your Team: Acknowledge the support and collaboration of your colleagues.
Your Manager: Highlight the guidance and opportunities they provided.
Your Mentor: Express gratitude for their patience and the knowledge they imparted.

A personal thank you note or a heartfelt email can go a long way in building lasting professional relationships.

3. Highlight Your Accomplishments

Ensure that your manager is aware of all the work you’ve done. This is crucial for your professional growth and future opportunities:

Quantify Your Work: Use metrics and data to showcase your contributions. For instance, “Improved system efficiency by 20% through code optimization” sounds more impactful than a generic statement.
Document Your Achievements: Create a summary of your projects, highlighting key accomplishments and the skills you’ve developed.

This not only helps your manager in evaluating your performance but also provides you with a ready-made list of achievements for your resume.

4. Polish Documentation for Your Code

Good documentation is the backbone of sustainable software development. Before you leave:

Review Existing Documentation: Ensure that it’s clear, concise, and up-to-date.
Add Detailed Comments: Explain complex parts of your code to help future developers understand your logic.
Create Guides: If applicable, write user guides or how-to documents for any tools or processes you developed.

Comprehensive documentation will not only benefit your team but also reflect positively on your professionalism and attention to detail.

5. Share Handoff Notes

To ensure a smooth transition, prepare handoff notes for your projects:

Project Status: Provide a detailed account of the current status of your projects.
Next Steps: Outline the next steps and future milestones.
Key Contacts: List any key contacts or resources that might be necessary for continuing the work.

This will help your team members take over seamlessly and continue the projects without any disruptions.

6. Focus on Building Connections

Your last few weeks are a perfect opportunity to build and strengthen professional relationships:

Networking: Connect with your colleagues on LinkedIn and other professional networks.
Informational Interviews: Schedule short meetings with team members to learn more about their roles and experiences.
Stay in Touch: Make a plan to stay in touch with key contacts after your internship ends.

Strong professional connections can provide valuable support and opportunities in your future career.

Conclusion

The final weeks of your internship are about more than just tying up loose ends. They’re an opportunity to showcase your work, express gratitude, and build connections that will benefit you throughout your career. Follow these steps to ensure you leave on a high note and set yourself up for future success.

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