What Do I Want in an Intern?
By Bubba Fender
Norman Career Services
Arkansas Tech University

My advice to those of you looking for an internship, or even a new career position, is the same as the Boy Scout creed, “Be Prepared.” I want my intern to have ‘great' communication skills, which for me, includes oral and written terminology regarding my industry (or his/her major). After all, I'm looking for someone to help me in my work, which includes meeting, visiting, presenting to customers, fellow workers, and so on. Consequently, I'd like to have an intern I'm proud to introduce - one who is serious about the job opportunity at hand, including the ability to speak cordially, dress appropriately, and willing to learn new skills or techniques.

I expect my interns to research my company and division - on our website or articles. They should know our major competitors and at least a few of their products. I'm hoping my intern will be innovative/creative enough to learn how our products are presented/sold.

My intern will be a team player, taking directions politely and willingly. He/she will feel confident to candidly offer new ideas when asked, or lead a project team of other interns.

Lastly, I truly am looking for an intern who will become a viable candidate to my company upon their graduation. That includes working hard, listening and learning at my office, plus continuing the same when they get back to their collegiate campus.

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