The excitement of landing an internship—especially as an international student—is real. Whether it’s your first time in a professional U.S. environment or a post-grad opportunity on OPT, an internship isn’t just a line on your resume. It’s a chance to build your brand, gain valuable experience, and, in many cases, open doors to future full-time roles.

But here’s the secret: it’s not just about doing your assigned tasks well. It’s about how you show up, how you interact, and the impression you leave behind—on your manager, your teammates, and even other interns. And in the U.S., where workplace culture might be different from what you’re used to, it’s worth thinking intentionally about how to approach the experience.

Let’s start with the first week. This is when impressions form quickly. Be friendly, arrive on time (or early), dress appropriately for the environment—even if it’s a casual one—and show curiosity. A simple “Good morning!” with a smile or a thank-you email after your first team meeting might seem small, but these gestures communicate professionalism and positivity. People remember how you make them feel.

You’ll also want to be proactive. One common cultural difference in the U.S. workplace is the expectation that you’ll take initiative. If you’ve completed a task, don’t just wait around—check in with your supervisor or ask if there’s anything else you can support. Offer help to others on your team. Show that you're interested in the bigger picture, not just the assignment in front of you.

That said, know that you’re not expected to know everything from Day One. Asking thoughtful questions is not only okay—it’s encouraged. It shows that you’re engaged and eager to learn. Internships are about growth, not perfection. And showing a willingness to learn (and even occasionally fail gracefully) is often more valuable than trying to act like you already know it all.

Building relationships matters just as much as delivering on your tasks. In the U.S., networking isn’t just something you do at formal events—it happens in the break room, during lunch, after meetings. Make the effort to introduce yourself to colleagues, set up casual coffee chats, and ask people about their career paths. People are usually happy to share and flattered when you show genuine interest. These connections can later become mentors, job referrals, or even long-term friends.

Pro tip: Don’t underestimate the power of communication. Whether you’re updating your manager on your progress or clarifying expectations about a project, clear and timely communication builds trust. Be professional in your emails, respond promptly to messages, and don’t ghost your team—especially if you're working hybrid or remote. Presence, even digital, goes a long way.

As the internship continues, think about how you can contribute beyond the bare minimum. Maybe that means sharing a new idea in a brainstorming session, volunteering to help with a team event, or asking to present a summary of your work at the end of the term. It’s not about doing more just for the sake of it—it’s about showing ownership, creativity, and a genuine investment in your work.

Cultural awareness is another piece of the puzzle. You might notice that American work culture often values directness, punctuality, and a balance of friendliness and professionalism. If you’re not sure what’s appropriate, it’s okay to observe first—and then ask. Being respectful of cultural norms while still bringing your own unique perspective is a powerful way to stand out.

And don’t forget to reflect as you go. What are you learning about your industry? What kind of work do you enjoy most? What soft skills are you developing? Internships are a great opportunity to get clarity on what kind of work environment you thrive in—and to build stories you’ll use in future interviews.

Finally, as your internship winds down, make sure to leave well. Thank your team. Ask for feedback. Update your LinkedIn to reflect your work, and request a recommendation if you feel the relationship is strong enough. Even if this internship doesn’t lead directly to a full-time offer, the impression you leave can create opportunities later down the line.

So show up. Be kind. Work hard. Ask questions. Take initiative. And be proud of how far you've come. Getting here wasn’t easy—but how you grow during this internship might just be the most important part of your story yet.

Cheers ☕