5 Recent Grads on What They Regret About Their Internships

If you've graduated from college, or are about to, there are some things you can do to get the most out of your fresh-out-of-school status, whether it's for the summer or life. The number 1 thing that people suggest? Getting an internship. Not only will you learn the ropes in a new industry and role, but you'll have a mentor, and gain the catch-22 "experience" that earns you credibility later on as you go for your first entry-level corporate job.

But what if you do the internship thing, and it doesn't go so well? What are some of the biggest pitfalls of intern life? We asked some recent graduates what they regret most about their internship experiences, so you don't have to.

1. More 1-on-1 meetings

I don't regret much, but I wish that I had pushed myself to ask for more 1-on-1 meetings and informational interviews with higher-ups and employees in other departments. I could have learned so much from them! - Joy, Marketing Franchise Internship 

2. Taken More Initiative 

I remember coming to my first meeting and not having an agenda. My supervisor asked what we were going to talk about and I was completely blind-sighted and thinking she would set the pace. I learned to take charge in meetings, in providing status updates, and asking questions and offering my ideas. - Michelle, Social Media Marketing Internship

3. Networked More

I was so laser-focused on learning what I thought was my calling, I barely said more than "hello" to any other department heads. This could have not only expanded my network, but let me know of other opportunities that could be a good, or better fit. - Julie, Business Development Intern

4. Working Too Hard  

When everyone was going out to happy hour, I stayed late to get extra work done. I didn't realize that while I was exhausting myself with spreadsheets, I wasn't impressing my boss. The other intern was with her ability to make small talk and authentically connect. - Robin, Accounting Intern

5. Not Exploring

I moved to a new city to get experience in my dream field, but barely went for lunchtime walks or went out at night. Sometimes I wonder what the city was actually like and am bummed that I never really got to know it. - Laila, Film and Media Intern