Tips for Interns

As we roll into our winter internships, I’d like to offer some tips for those who are looking for or starting their internships.

1) Always ask questions. Your internship is the best learning experience you’ll have. That being said, there’s pretty much no such thing as a stupid question. If you don’t know the answer to something, ask. Ask why things are programmed a certain way, about exercise selection, cueing, etc. Even if you think it’s a stupid question, it’s better to know the answer than to not gain the knowledge or have an athlete ask you why you do something and not know the answer.

2) Always be available. Even if things are not on your schedule, stick around. Shadow during sessions, go to conferences. Not only will you get the most out of your time there but it will also show that you want to be there and get better at your job.

3) Know that you will have to pay your dues. Yes you will clean the gym and stock things but everyone’s been there so don’t get all uppity about doing grunt work.

4) Treat your internship as an interview. Show that you are willing to put in the effort. Many internships end in a job or a reference so don’t treat it as something that you just want to get out of the way.

5) Know what’s expected of you. Different places have different roles for their interns. If you are unsure about your role, ask. If you’re shadowing a coach, ask what their expectations are for you. They may want you to do some coaching or just observe and ask questions. Find that out so you don’t overstep your bounds or underperform.

6) Know that you don’t know everything. You’re the bottom man on the totem pole for a reason. Don’t get defensive when you’re critiqued. Those around you are trying to help you and make you better and if you’re never corrected, that won’t happen.

 

Coach Lily