The ultimate checklist: how to wrap up an internship

As summer is wrapping up, so are internships for many college students. After three months of trying to learn as much as you can and meeting dozens of people, it’s time to make the most of your last few days on the job.

The work you complete while at your internship is extremely valuable for both you and the company you worked for. However, the impression you leave on your boss and coworkers is just as important.

Follow my checklist on how to wrap up an internship so both you and the company you work for are satisfied.

1. Don’t slack off!

Just because you have the back-to-school jitters doesn’t mean you can blow off any final projects your boss assigns. The last week of an internship is the perfect time to ask your boss and coworkers if they have any loose ends they want you to tie up.

2. Prepare for your end-of-internship review

Typically, your boss will schedule a meeting to review the work you completed throughout your time with the company. Come prepared with a list of what you want to talk about: things you enjoyed, what you learned and even feedback you have about your experience.

If your boss doesn’t schedule any time to meet before you leave, I encourage you schedule time with them. It’s important to find out how your boss thinks you performed and what you can improve on for your next internship or job.

3. Inquire about other internship opportunities or future jobs

If you’re interested in interning again next summer or applying for a full-time roll after graduation, let your boss know! Explain to them why you enjoyed your internship and ask about future opportunities.

If your boss responds by saying they’re not sure about future opportunities, ask if you can contact them or anyone else from the company when it gets closer to summer or graduation to follow-up.

4. Ask for your coworkers’ contact information

It’s so important to stay connected to your coworkers, especially those you worked particularly close with. The easiest way to do so is by connecting on LinkedIn or asking for email addresses.

5. Update your resume, portfolio and LinkedIn

Now that you have all this great experience, it’s time to amp up your portfolio. Keep copies of projects you completed to show at future interviews. Update your resume and LinkedIn profile with your successes. (While doing this, you can also make sure you’re connected with all of your coworkers on LinkedIn.)

6. Reflect on your internship experience

It’s really important to look back on your time with the company and write down all your accomplishments so you don’t forget them. Ask coworkers if they have time to provide you with feedback about what you did well and what you need to work on.

Take some time to catch up – there’s a good chance the summer flew by and you’re not remembering all that you did!

7. Last, but not least, say thank you!

This is probably the most important step of this checklist. Think about it… this company gave you the chance that they could’ve given someone else to show them what you’re made of. Say thank you for it!

For your boss and coworkers you’re close with, write them thank you cards. For the team and/or department you worked with, send a quick email. This will truly leave a lasting impression that you are grateful for their help and the experience.

Quick tip:

Not every internship is going to be your ‘dream job.’ Even if this was the case, the internship was still a learning experience and an opportunity to add something to your resume.

If your boss gives you the opportunity to share your feedback about the internship, I encourage you to be truthful. Don’t just blame them, rather, explain why it wasn’t a great fit for you and even provide suggestions about how it could have gone better.

Bottom line, be respectful and professional about it. Be hesitant to talk poorly about your experience with others. It could very easily get back to people at the company.