Starting an internship is an exciting opportunity to gain real-world experience, but the pressure to make a strong first impression can be daunting. Being well-prepared from the beginning allows you to focus your energy on learning and contributing, setting a positive tone for the entire experience.
What to Bring on Your First Day
Your first day will involve completing onboarding paperwork, which requires specific documentation. Human Resources will verify your identity and employment eligibility using the federal Form I-9. You must present either one document from List A or a combination of one from List B and one from List C. A U.S. passport or passport card is a common List A document that establishes both identity and work authorization.
If you don’t have a passport, you must bring two documents. For identity (List B), a state-issued driver’s license or ID card is standard. To prove employment authorization (List C), you will need your Social Security card or a certified copy of your birth certificate. Before your start date, carefully review any emails from HR for a precise list of what to bring, as they may also require bank account details for direct deposit setup.
Everyday Professional Essentials
Beyond the first day, your daily success can be supported by a few items that signal professionalism and preparedness. Having these on hand prevents minor issues from becoming distractions, allowing you to stay focused on your tasks. These items help you manage your day smoothly.
A Dedicated Notebook and Pens
Taking notes by hand during meetings or while receiving instructions demonstrates a high level of engagement. It signals to your manager and colleagues that you are actively listening and valuing the information being shared. A dedicated notebook keeps your learning, questions, and to-do lists organized. This practice also helps you avoid the perception of being distracted by a laptop or phone.
A Professional Bag
How you carry your belongings contributes to your professional image. Arriving with a clean, structured bag—whether a simple backpack, a tote, or a briefcase—shows that you are organized and take your role seriously. It ensures your notebook, pens, and personal items are kept together neatly, reinforcing that you understand the workplace environment.
Lunch, Snacks, and a Water Bottle
Bringing your own lunch and healthy snacks is a practical way to manage your day. It saves you money and the time it would take to find and purchase food, allowing for a more relaxing break. Having a water bottle and light snacks at your desk helps you stay hydrated and maintain energy levels throughout the afternoon. This foresight prevents energy slumps and shows you are self-sufficient.
A Personal “Just-in-Case” Kit
A small, discreet pouch containing personal items can be a lifesaver for handling unexpected situations. This kit might include pain relievers for a headache, a few bandages for a paper cut, or mints. Having these items on hand means you can address small personal needs quickly and privately, minimizing disruption and maintaining your professional composure.
The Right Professional Attitude
The most impactful things you bring to your internship are not physical objects but intangible qualities. Your attitude and approach to the work will define your success and leave a lasting impression. These behavioral traits are what turn a good intern into a great one.
Cultivating an attitude of genuine curiosity is fundamental. Don’t be afraid to ask thoughtful questions, as it shows you are engaged and eager to understand the business and your role within it. This should be paired with a strong willingness to learn, accepting that you are there to grow and absorb as much knowledge as possible. This mindset allows you to view feedback not as criticism, but as a valuable tool for your professional development.
Demonstrating proactivity will set you apart. Instead of waiting to be assigned every task, look for opportunities to contribute. If you finish an assignment early, ask your manager if there is anything else you can help with. Maintaining a positive, respectful, and helpful demeanor with every person you interact with solidifies your reputation as a valuable team member who is a pleasure to work with.
What to Leave at Home
Just as important as knowing what to bring is understanding what to leave behind. Certain items and behaviors can detract from your professional image and create distractions for you and your coworkers. Being mindful of these missteps is a way to ensure you are perceived as respectful of the office environment.
Avoid wearing strong fragrances like perfumes or colognes, as some colleagues may have allergies or sensitivities. Unless the company has a very casual dress code, leave overly informal attire, such as ripped jeans or graphic t-shirts, in your closet. Your goal is to blend into the professional culture, not stand out for the wrong reasons.
Finally, anything that could be a significant distraction should not come to work. This includes personal gaming devices or a tendency to have loud, non-work-related phone conversations. The office is a place of business, and showing that you are focused on your responsibilities demonstrates respect for the company and the people working around you.