As the summer internship season kicks off, and we are welcoming our new interns at Michelman & Robinson, LLP, I'm reminded of my own transformative experience as an intern in Germany at the Frankfurt offices of Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer over 20 years ago. It was my first international business experience, and little did I know then how much it would shape my personal and professional growth.
To all the students embarking on internships this summer, whether close to home or far afield, I'd like to share some reflections from my journey:
Embrace curiosity: Your internship is a unique opportunity to learn. Ask questions, seek out new perspectives, and absorb as much knowledge as you can. Curiosity is the fuel that propels growth and innovation.
Dare to think big: Bring your best self to work each day and don't hesitate to contribute your ideas. Your fresh insights as an intern can spark meaningful change. Dream beyond the immediate tasks and envision the impact you can make.
Connect with others: Your internship cohort and colleagues could become the cornerstone of your professional network. Build relationships, collaborate, and support one another. The bonds forged during this time can last a lifetime.
Embrace the challenges: Growth often lies outside your comfort zone. Whether it is navigating a new environment, tackling an unfamiliar project, or communicating across differences, each challenge is a chance to develop new skills and resilience.
Looking back, my internship in Germany was a pivotal stepping stone in my career journey. To all the interns of today, I wish you a summer filled with learning, growth, and exciting new horizons. Embrace this opportunity—it could be the start of something extraordinary.