39 minute read
Exploring Internships
Committing to an internship can give you an edge over other graduate applicants; on top of giving you the chance to gain valuable experience, it is also an opportunity for you to develop the skills and qualities employers look out for.
Benefits of committing to an internship
1. Boost your employability
An internship exposes you to the working world and gives you a chance to see how things work in a corporate setting. With an internship under your belt, you can also demonstrate the relevant skills and knowledge acquired beyond the classroom to prospective employers.
Moreover, in the new normal and present economic climate, employers are on the lookout for candidates who stand out, are adaptable and able to contribute. Internships can also set you apart from other applicants who do not have one under their belts.
Internships are the perfect avenue for you to experience the industry of your interest and find out if you can see yourself in that line of work upon graduation. Internships can also help you gauge your abilities and working style, and help you realise how you can further improve your skills. This preview of the industry of your choice may help you better manage your expectations when you transition into the working world, too.
Employers often use internships and work placements as means to attract talents and later convert them to full-time graduate hires. So, during an internship, try your best to shine! An internship in your chosen industry will not only help you grow your network of professional contacts – which can come in handy in the future – but may also give you an insider’s perspective into the industry.
2. Better understanding of yourself
3. Connect to your chosen career
Gordon Neo Bachelor of Arts (International Trade), SIM-UB Quantitative Analyst (Innovation and Insights), NielsenIQ
My role
My role as a Data Analyst in NielsenIQ is to analyse large scale datasets and understand the story behind the forces driving business opportunities for brands in different markets globally. I have had the opportunity to work and lead several projects with global titans such as Unilever and Glico.
I would think I am luckier than most other candidates, as I managed to secure this internship. But behind this, there were countless rejections. I applied to more than 50 companies, and every rejection hurt more than the last, with some companies not replying at all. So, what made me stand out was my tenacity – not giving up in the face of countless rejections just because the process has become harder due to the global pandemic.
To further boost my chances, the staff team from Career Connect helped me with drastically refining my resume, and also identifying some jobs I might be interested in, as well as my strengths.
My takeaway
Beyond the experience of being a part of an industry leader like NielsenIQ, one thing I discovered is how essential it is to find a company that supports your growth, and how invaluable it can be in pushing you forward as an undergraduate.
While I was a full-time intern at NielsenIQ, I also held the position of Vice-President of the Sociology Club and volunteered with two different non-profit organisations. My seniors at NielsenIQ provided me with guidance and were incredibly patient with my mistakes and provided me feedback on insights on how to grow and balance my work and personal life.
Some words of advice
Firstly, apply for the internship, even if it looks daunting and you do not check all of the boxes. Look at the job description and not the title. Speak to the recruiter and do not be afraid to explore different opportunities if the job scope seems like something you would be keen in. That is the best thing about being an intern – you are allowed to dip your toes in different roles to explore. You never know what you may end up liking or disliking!
Chang Zhi Yi Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Data Science and Business Analytics, SIM-UOL Product Strategy and Operations Intern, ByteDance, TikTok
My role
As a Product Marketing and Product Analyst Intern at ByteDance and TikTok, I mostly worked on technical projects and handled data-related requests for the Product Strategy and Operations department.
Some projects I was involved in were Market Basket Analysis for APAC transaction data to predict which advertised products were likely to be sold and targeted together, as well as managing onboarding programmes for advertisers across APAC.
Being prepared and doing ample research on the company was a factor that made me stand out from the rest of the applicants. Having to go through four rounds of interviews for an internship was tough, so it was vital to have a good understanding of the company and the role. For me, it successfully demonstrated my interest in the role, and also helped me craft meaningful questions at the end of the interview.
My takeaway
I learnt the importance of managing expectations, because juggling my internship with a full-time university course along with two CCAs and various other side jobs was not easy. Handling many commitments at once comes with opportunity costs, be it less time or less energy for each commitment. Letting teammates and supervisors know what was on my plate and how I was prioritising my commitments helped plenty.
Some words of advice
A piece of advice I would give students would be to start working on your portfolio as soon as possible, ideally from your first year. Consider joining CCAs that can help to value add to your portfolios.
If needed, approach your friendly Career Coaches for career advice, too. As for internship applications, there will definitely be rejections. However, after securing the first internship, it is easier to get invited for interviews subsequently. Do not let setbacks define you, and keep a growth mindset. It will go a long way!
Jonathan Yeoh Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Data Science and Business Analytics, SIM-UOL Regional Business Intelligence and Project Management Intern, Bolloré Logistics
My role
My role in Bolloré involved conducting data analysis and visualisations for our business activities. This included many regional projects for our big customers where I reviewed sales and shipment performances.
An interesting project was our company’s annual budget forecasting. I helped to build a Tableau Dashboard that could review the past year’s sales performance, and simulate growth for the next year. This helped our Regional Account Managers to discuss strategies and plan for the year after.
I was also involved in project management, and facilitated the launch of a new delivery service across South East Asia for a global luxury goods conglomerate.
I spent a considerable time building a presentable and professional resume and LinkedIn profile. As a student with hardly any experience, it was very important for me to make a good first impression with interviewers. I also took up relevant professional courses to boost my credentials and upgrade my skills.
I also applied to many roles early and aggressively. I had suffered multiple rejections before being offered the role at Bolloré. Conducting research on the companies also helped me in interviews, as being able to ask the interviewers various questions undoubtedly impressed them as well.
My takeaway
I learnt a lot working in a regional role, being able to interact with customers across Southeast Asia. This made me more confident in my communication skills. Learning new skills and picking up industry knowledge on top of my academics was also very beneficial.
Throughout most of my internship, I worked from home. This was challenging as there was lesser interaction and guidance. The internship also clashed with school, and while the company was flexible in allowing me to attend classes, I still had to catch up over the weekends. I had to remain disciplined throughout, and thankfully, I managed to do so.
Some words of advice
Do not be afraid to ask questions! As an intern, you are still not expected to know everything, and most supervisors are very willing to help you grow. By asking questions, you learn the most, especially in this climate where we work from home most of the time.
Be proactive, try to offer more than what is required and always present your best work. Your supervisor’s and colleague’s impressions of you are important, and you never know what opportunities may arise from them!
Suu Waddy Soe Bachelor of Science (Business Administration), SIM-UB International Brand Intern (North Asia Region), Love, Bonito
My role
As an International Brand Intern, I led and localised several campaigns for the Hong Kong market, while generating creative ideas within the department. Along with my team, I contributed towards new content ideas each month for the Electronic Direct Mail (EDM) newsletter, social media and content angle for influencer postings. I even got the opportunity to coordinate influencer collaborations from their outfits to the final end product of their post, IGTV, or YouTube videos!
In the e-commerce backend, I set up promo codes, gift card codes and loyalty rewards for our consumers and influencers in the Hong Kong region. At the end of each campaign, I would analyse brand launch performance to ensure improvement for upcoming campaigns.
I felt that what made me stand out from the rest of the applicants was my mindset of growth and passion for fashion. Although I had no experience in marketing and had no idea what I wanted in the future, I was eager to learn and would take up any opportunity to do so.
I also ensured what I learnt from my previous experience, such as being a sales associate, was transferable to my new placements.
My takeaway
My biggest takeaway was the chance to work in a global team and coordinate Love, Bonito’s first pop-up café in Hong Kong, Caffe LB! It was a mind-blowing experience where we planned and prepared a festive café for our Hong Kong customers – and we did it all virtually!
Although we could not be in Hong Kong physically to witness our plans and preparations coming to life, the experience taught me how the world has become more interconnected, and how technology has made these events possible. Another skill I took away was the ability to negotiate and deal with our partners, which I did not realise was such an essential skill in the working world.
A challenge I faced was balancing my studies during my internship. Although I took lesser modules that semester, it was overwhelming when there were peak periods such as 11.11 sales and midterms during the same week – which lead me to my final takeaway, why it is essential to work under pressure to meet deadlines!
Some words of advice
Take the time to explore your passion and career aspirations. Start being proactive in your career goals, have a mindset that is always eager to learn and be bold to take any opportunity available! As an intern, always have an inquisitive attitude and do not be afraid to make mistakes, as they help you learn and grow!
Justin Hu Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Computing and Information Systems, SIM-UOL Software Engineer Intern, TreeDots
My role
I had the privilege to work on both the backend and frontend of the web application which I was assigned to assist the team in developing. As TreeDots is a company that focuses on selling cosmetically imperfect groceries to consumers all around the island as part of an effort in reducing food wastage, not only did I have the opportunity to learn about the modern tools used by software engineers, knowing my contribution would help in operating this business operation to promote a sustainable lifestyle in the community made my internship experience a meaningful one.
I think the two factors that made me stand out from other applicants were my interview preparation and a well-formatted resume. Interview preparation includes having adequate knowledge of the company’s motto and vision, and you apply that in your interview to keep your responses more relevant to the company’s interest. I also researched on potential questions and tests that may be asked or given.
A well-formatted resume clearly illustrates your suitability to a role, and how your past working experience can contribute to it. It also shows any past project experience.
My takeaway
Throughout the internship, I built more technical knowledge and project working experience that could not otherwise be picked up in school. It definitely added value to my learning journey in SIM-UOL.
Nonetheless, there were frustrating times when I had to do lots of research in order to use the correct codes to achieve the desired output. In these times, perseverance to do my best, and seeking help from colleagues helped me overcome the challenges. Time management was another skill that I took away, as I did this internship while studying for my final year examinations.
Some words of advice
Believing in yourself is crucial to power through during the internship-hunting period. Be it before you have secured an internship, or you have gotten an offer, always make full use of your free time to improve yourself. Securing an internship is not the destination; it is just a part of your journey in figuring out what you truly want to do in your life.
Eileen Ang Bachelor of Arts (Honours) Events Management, SIM-University of Stirling Events Intern, Directions Group, Inc
My role
As an Events Intern, I played a supportive role on the team. My day-to-day task differed according to the projects we handled – which ranged from private events like weddings and charity galas, to corporate events such as product launches or store activations for luxury brands.
I mainly managed the groundwork of the projects such as venue sourcing, vendor management, logistics procurement and scheduling. Besides that, I was also involved in the creative ideation and overall conceptualisation of each project.
One of the main reasons was my willingness to extend my internship to a six-month affair. Personally, as an events major, I felt that I did not have sufficient industry experience in my portfolio to give me job security when I graduated during the global pandemic.
Hence, I decided to take a leave of absence from school and focus on my internship, and which also allowed me to see through a number of projects. This gave me good exposure to the industry, as well as the range of different projects the company handles, something I would not have been able to experience if I kept my internship to three months.
My takeaway
Compared to what I am studying, which focuses more on the management side of the field and the bigger picture in the events industry, my time in Directions provided me with a clearer understanding of the demands of an Events Associate. This really helped me to paint a more realistic picture of the working life that awaits me beyond this internship, and helped me visualise the kind of work environment that I wish to work in.
It helped me to hone skills such as attention to detail, time and people management, corporate branding guidelines and requirements, as well. I also had the chance to build up my vendors and resources database, which is extremely important for this industry.
However, one of my biggest takeaways would be learning how to manage expectations of the different stakeholders, which is a useful skill across all industries.
I really struggled with having a work-life balance during my internship. While it is important to be accountable for all my responsibilities and balance my other commitments alongside my workload, I found it difficult to “stop working” with pressing deadlines, and that left me in a terrible headspace. Progressively, I learnt how to draw my boundaries respectfully, and make time for myself to still do things that I love.
Some words of advice
Never see yourself as just an intern. Take pride in your work and present them with confidence!
Always take the initiative and be willing to learn. If you are interested in an area or task that is not delegated to you, ask to be involved in the spirit of growth and improvement.
Be humble in your asking. No question is ever too stupid, and it is always good to over-communicate to avoid any misunderstanding!
Lawrence Choy Bachelor of Science (Honours) Data Science and Business Analytics, SIM-UOL Business Development Intern, ShopBack
My role
Being part of the ShopBack Go department, my main role was to support the Business Development Managers operationally as they brought on board more in-store shopping, dining, and entertainment merchants. I also had the opportunity to perform other job functions such as marketing and analytics.
Due to the global pandemic, it was a difficult period for everyone and I am grateful to have secured an internship. I had applied for the role twice, and was only accepted on my subsequent application. After I was rejected on my first application, I identified some gaps in skills I had, worked on them and applied again. It is also important to persevere and stay positive during your internship or job search!
My takeaway
My biggest takeaway was one of the company’s values: “Own the change you seek”. It was a privilege to be part of a start-up, as there were always new challenges to take on. Initially, it was difficult to get used to the fast-paced environment, but as time went by, I found myself taking on these challenges, taking ownership and implementing new initiatives to improve work processes.
Some words of advice
Stay positive and do not give up when applying for internships or jobs. Identify any gaps you may have and learn more about the company to ensure you are in line with what you are applying for. Always ask and clarify if you are unsure, because it will help you understand what you are tasked with. Be open to learn and adapt to changes because it will help you grow!
Beatrice Chow Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Business and Management, SIM-UOL Talent Acquisition Intern, Siemens
My role
My day-to-day tasks involved sourcing and interacting with potential candidates on platforms such as LinkedIn, shortlisting candidates for interviews with the respective hiring managers and providing assistance throughout the entire recruitment cycle for interns.
On top of that, my core duties also included generating monthly recruitment reports, creating talent pipelines for current and future hires and assisting in the organisation’s employer branding campaigns and activities, such as career fairs.
I did prior research on the company and read the job description carefully to ensure its alignment to my personal and professional goals before I applied. I felt that it was extremely essential to ensure that I had a clear goal in my application, as well as to allow myself the chance to articulate that during the interview.
Besides that, I also tailored my resume according to the job description, and made sure to include the relevant skills and experiences to increase my chances of getting shortlisted. During the interview, I maintained an enthusiastic attitude and mindset, and also asked questions that reinforced my interest in the role.
My takeaway
As Talent Acquisition was a relatively new field for me, it was initially challenging to learn about the processes behind the role, and utilising the company systems. However, it gave me a better understanding on how such processes contribute to the successful hiring of candidates.
Despite the challenges, I was fortunate to have a patient team and line manager who always guided me and constantly encouraged me to ask questions. My internship also enabled me to connect with experienced professionals at Siemens, which enriched my learning experience when they gave advice and shared about their past experiences.
Some words of advice
Never be afraid to take the first step to apply for an opportunity even if you do not feel qualified. You never know how it will turn out, or how far you will go! Take the initiative to learn and be proactive at work. Do not be afraid to make mistakes and ensure you grow and learn.
Lastly, do remember to set aside some time to check in with your line manager and colleagues to align expectations, and be receptive to feedback given to you.
Ashley Ong Bachelor of Science (Business Administration), SIM-UB Business Development Intern, Porsche Asia Pacific Ltd
My role
I worked closely with the Director and Managers of the Business Development team and my main responsibilities included supporting strategic business development projects such as Market Development Strategy, Wholesale Consulting and the Operational Business. The team I was in focuses on the Singapore market, as well as markets in 12 other ASEAN regions.
The bulk of my work also involved assisting in the Market Business Plan for 2022 for the APAC region. Additionally, I prepared and supported KPI reporting and presentations
Truth be told, I only got this internship when I applied for the second time. In this pandemic, great internships are scarce and highly competitive. I believe what made me stand out could be broken down into three factors.
Firstly, I placed a big importance in suiting my abilities to what they were looking for in my cover letter and resume. Secondly, communication with your future employers should have high standards of enthusiasm and politeness. So, I did a very thorough follow-up before and after the interview. Thirdly, I studied very hard for the interview to ensure I had an edge over others.
My takeaway
You cannot fathom the speed Porsche employees work at! Porsche’s culture is spectacular. They inspire me every single day. They are extremely passionate, productive and disciplined.
What struck me the most was their ability to remain composed in the most stressful of times. I love challenges; Porsche was no short in pushing me to extend my limits. They groomed me to always be on the ball, engineering my stamina to keep going forward. Tiny details count, and they showed me how to take great pride in your work.
Porsche is not just a company that manufactures and sells cars; they are the elite specialists behind the automotive industry and the driving force behind innovative change for a sustainable tomorrow.
Some words of advice
Know yourself very well, and always strive for self-improvement. Kickstart that by taking online certifications in the fields of study you are interested in. Have proper time management and trust in your abilities. Be genuine and you will surely succeed. If you are unsure, ask. It is your keenness to learn that sets you apart from the pack. Stay highly motivated and do not put yourself down. Life is a game!
Siew Jia Yi Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Accounting and Finance, SIM-UOL Compliance Intern, Capital Governance
My role
As a Compliance Intern, my role included conducting in-depth regulatory research on topics like Anti-Money Laundering or the Payment Services Act. I also assisted with policy reviews of our clients, ensuring that their regulatory policies comply with the MAS regulations. There was a lot of reading and writing involved in this role.
I believe having the right attitude and a proactive mindset are keys to creating opportunities for oneself. I also had relevant past experience as a law programme student during my Junior College days, which was an added bonus as an applicant for this position.
My takeaway
My biggest takeaway is that I had first-hand experience in the field of compliance. I have also learned to become a more meticulous worker which has been my weakness. Having my first internship also prompted me to start thinking more seriously about my future and my career goals.
One of the challenges I faced was juggling my CCAs and with my full-time internship. However, I overcame it by sticking with my timetable and taking proper breaks in between to avoid the possibility of burn out.
Some words of advice
Always maintain the positive mindset you have on your first day of your internship! Stay curious and do not be afraid to ask questions. My advice to internship-hunting is to be courageous and proactive by making use of all available resources around you. Attend workshops provided by Career Connect, or hone your technical skills online to be more employable. There is nothing to lose and everything to gain!
Jonathan Lim Bachelor of Arts (Economics), SIM-UB Special Projects Associate, Grain
My role
As a Special Projects Associate, I was Grain’s versatile arm. I supported the various leaders and departments and filled holes wherever they were. This included leveraging data to derive insights and make recommendations for improvements across functions. I was even given the opportunity to lead a $1M/year product launch, and worked hard on iterations to achieve product-market fit and profitability. My role heavily involved coordinating between stakeholders to ensure that all the pieces were set for success.
One word: Versatility. Be open-minded and accepting to take on tasks outside your pre-defined job scope. Especially in a growing start-up in the middle of a global pandemic, everyone takes on multiple hats. You should not be afraid to do the same. Being versatile exemplifies your growth mindset and willingness to learn. Also, a bonus would be that you get to experience and learn different things!
My takeaway
The value of work ethic, specifically on maintaining trust and being accountable. Essentially, always do what you say you would do. This might sound easy, but people rarely achieve this, even C-suite leaders. Accountability breeds trust, which will lead to more outcomes and growth when you are allowed to take on higher-level projects.
Some words of advice
Do away with the “internship” title – it often acts as a shield for you to do a job half-heartedly and make mistakes. Instead, go beyond what you are expected to do and learn to love your company, its people and your position!
Lydia Ho Bachelor of Science (Business Administration), SIM-UB Marketing Intern, Sodexo Singapore
My role
I have been able to do a wide range of different tasks over the course of my six-month internship as a Marketing Intern in Sodexo. Working in a company that provides a spectrum of services for clients mostly in MNCs, educational institutions and healthcare facilities, allowed me to execute and support marketing campaigns across these diverse groups.
I had also managed relevant social media pages, like starting Sodexo Singapore’s TikTok account, while also creating both written and visual content.
I had been blessed to have been able to secure this internship, and a future conversion to a full-time position! I would say the first thing I did was actively source for internships on various platforms and websites. My resume was also constantly tweaked and updated to include improvements that I received from career workshops and seniors. Although I did not think that my resume was something that was too stellar, I made the effort to actively take up opportunities both in school and externally to improve myself.
My takeaway
During the course of the six months, I juggled my internship and schoolwork while still maintaining my attendance for my CCA. It was definitely a struggle, and at times I felt so drained that I thought of giving up. Time management was my biggest obstacle and 24 hours always seemed to pass by too quickly. Even now after completing my studies, I cannot say that I am a master in time management, I have definitely learnt how to better set my priorities and also boundaries when needed.
Some words of advice
Take chances and just try. An internship is where you can really immerse yourself into the corporate world to explore what it is like in a particular industry or job function. I found that many of the opportunities that I have had so far seemed to be unplanned, but I always adopt an open-minded attitude to be willing to try and learn along the way.
Vince Gan Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Accounting and Finance, SIM-UOB Audit Associate Intern, Audit Alliance
My role
My primary responsibility was to detect materiality misstatements through the audit stages, such as client acceptance, audit planning, the gathering of audit evidence, completion and auditor’s reports.
During my projects, I spent most of my time gathering proof – documents – to test the effectiveness of control smoothly. It is essential to provide a thorough check; we can promptly detect and highlight the errors if our client has an effective internal control process
When I was accepted into the internship placement, I always kept a “learn as much as I can” attitude. I appreciated, and was grateful, to have secured a placement, what with the scarcity of internship positions during this time. A positive attitude and proactiveness in work also helped me stand out from the rest of the applicants.
My takeaway
One of my biggest takeaways was meeting employers from different industries, as the projects are usually involved with various sectors. It further expands my knowledge as I communicate with my clients.
However, there were times when I faced challenges. Due to safe distancing measures, we would have to perform our tasks and duties remotely, over Zoom. There are protocols to, and we have to accommodate our clients’ office protocols, which increased the difficulties of performing my duty.
Despite the situation, I learnt how to encounter and adapt myself to a new working model, and it sharpened my virtual skills for my future employment. It also minimised the chances of clarifying my doubts with the seniors and managers.
Some words of advice
Keep your mind open, be humble when you are good at something and be curious when you want to learn something. Most importantly, be fearless when you make a mistake. Keeping these pointers in mind not only kept me motivated at the workplace, but also made me a better person.
Theresa Nadia Tjitrosantoso Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Banking and Finance, SIM-UOL Finance Intern, Circles.Life
My role
As a Finance Intern, some of my major responsibilities included assisting with month-end closure and group consolidation for assigned accounts, reconciling intercompany balances and transactions, as well as working on special projects such as developing and implementing internal rules and procedures.
I was also given the opportunity to collaborate with the Chief Finance Officer (CFO) and legal team on the company’s internal controls.
Finding an internship during the pandemic was difficult, since several companies reduced their internship positions. But I feel that perseverance and an open mind toward learning are crucial qualities to possess while applying for internships and even jobs. Furthermore, I always liked the firm’s ideals and goals, and I feel that demonstrating genuine interest in the company and position would set you apart.
My takeaway
My best takeaway is to not be hesitant to ask questions. My first week was a tough learning curve, but my colleagues encouraged me not to be afraid to ask questions and clarify my doubts. The company culture also increased my enthusiasm for learning new things and working under pressure. I was able to enhance my time management abilities in my studies, internship and even my lifestyle, by taking one thing at a time.
Some words of advice
As an intern, you will be given responsibilities that you have never had before. Take it as a chance to learn more about the industry in which you work in. Do not be scared to provide feedback and own up to your mistakes, too! Remember to take notes during meetings and be receptive to feedback as this will be extremely beneficial once you enter the workforce.
Ichiro Tan Bachelor of Business (International Business), SIM-RMIT Intern (Malaysia Representative Office), Singapore Institute of Management
My role
The responsibilities for my role as an intern for the Malaysia Representative Office include providing assistance in administrative matters, event planning, conducting market research and analysing the Malaysia market.
During my internship journey, I was fortunate to be given the opportunity to participate in the planning process for several of the office’s events, such as, Education Fairs, Malaysia Virtual Open Houses, Malaysia Educators Conference, Malaysia Agents Workshop, Build Your Own University Challenge and Career Month Series.
I believe the factor that made me stand out is my spirit of proactiveness, as well as my strong background knowledge and understanding of SIM Global Education. During the interview process, I expressed to my interviewers with confidence that I would be able to provide insights and recommendations on the aspect of academic courses and CCAs that may be beneficial to the office, based on students’ viewpoints as supported by my strong student life background during my education journey with SIM.
My takeaway
My utmost takeaway from this internship was being able to work with a team that was professional and helpful. I was extremely fortunate to have received their guidance throughout my entire internship journey. It really helped me a lot in my transition, familiarisation and growing process for my role.
However, there was also a challenge I faced, which I have managed to overcome. It helped me learn the importance of cultivating good time management and finding a balance between my internship, academic courses and involvement in several CCAs, as to not overwhelm myself throughout this internship journey.
Some words of advice
As the proverb says, “When life gives you sour lemons, turn it into a sweet lemonade!” Do not be discouraged and held back when you face difficulties in your internship search. Instead, take this as a precious once-in-a-lifetime learning opportunity to enrich yourself and be a person with a stronger will.
“When there is a will, there is a way”. I can assure you the outcome of your journey will be a rewarding one when you have reached your desired destination!
Converting an Internship into a Full-Time Job
Chee Guan Jia
Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Banking and Finance, SIM-UOL J.P. Morgan Previous role: Intern, Corporate Analyst Development Programme Current role: Graduate Analyst
My role
I joined J.P. Morgan back in 2020 as a summer intern under the Corporate Analyst Development Programme. During my internship, I was tasked with two projects. The first was a case study where I had to leverage disruptive technologies such as blockchain and intelligent automation to improve the Wholesale Payments business. The second was a social impact project where I had to devise a growth strategy to help the firm’s non-profit partner – a large NGO based in India – better attract funding and volunteers.
I am currently in my first rotation under the Asia Spread Middle Office team, where I support the sales and trading desks across a full spectrum of products. This role is extremely dynamic as no day is ever the same. Depending on the needs of the business, I could be involved in anything from trade allocations to projects spanning global and regional strategic business initiatives.
Although my internship was virtual in nature due to the global pandemic, I managed to forge many strong connections within the firm. That definitely helped me assimilate into my full-time role as I was already familiar with the people, as well as the culture and dynamics within the bank.
How I managed to secure my conversion
Interns at the firm were assessed based on various key competencies, from commercial acumen to teamwork and leadership. To secure a full-time conversion, one has to demonstrate the ability and aptitude to learn and grow throughout the course of the internship. We were not only expected to absorb but to also inquire, network, deliver, give back and lead during our short stint with the firm.
It was a challenge to juggle between studying for my exams, leading a student club and taking on a full-time internship. Thus, I would say the “magic” factor that led to my conversion was the ability to remain resilient. Rather than worrying about things beyond my control, I shifted my energy to what I could create instead.
For some context, I was actively involved in the school’s business case club – SIM Business Strategy – for about two-thirds of my university life. During my time at the club, I managed to pick up both soft and hard skills which are essential for the working world. From financial modelling with Excel, creating impactful PowerPoint decks, to business case analyses.
All these experiences helped me ace the two biggest deliverables of my internship, where I had to craft and execute convincing business pitches to a panel of senior leaders.
Some words of advice
Put yourself in the shoes of a recruiter. What are they looking out for? Simply put: Relevant achievements, experience and skills. As much as we would like to deny it, the world of hiring is actually quite fair. If we possess the same pedigree as our competitors, we also stand a fighting chance at landing our dream roles.
With that said, my advice is to start early. Formulate a plan which would enable you to acquire some form of achievements, experience and skills. Most importantly, believe in yourself and stay positive! The journey ahead will not be easy, but we are all rooting for you!
Henry Ng
Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Business and Management, SIM-UOL GTI Media (gradsingapore) Previous role: Marketing Intern Current role: Marketing Executive
My role
As a Campus Marketing Executive, my role is to bring knowledge to students about gradsingapore’s products, and support students in their journey to find, and settle in, their careers.
I was previously a Marketing Intern before converting to my full-time role. Definitely, as an intern, my workload was only at the tip of the iceberg, and I was not fully accountable for the work that was pushed out. When I took on my full-time role, I was given the empowerment to launch marketing campaigns to aid in my work. However, as cliché as it seems, with power, comes responsibility. I have to be accountable for the projects which are very much needed to keep the company functioning efficiently.
I gained experience and knowledge about my current role through my mentor during my internship. She taught me the craft of being a marketer, and on how to approach my target audience as well as my team.
After gaining experience and skills, my transition into the full-time position was relatively smooth. I had already known how to do my daily tasks efficiently and work well with my colleagues, as I was already familiar with their working styles. Work was pushed out more efficiently and with lesser conflict. I am very fortunate to have both work from home and work in office experiences, despite the safe distancing measures.
Equipped with Zoom and Discord skills, I could work from home effectively and without much guidance from the first day I joined.
How I managed to secure my conversion
During my internship, I realised that I was able to fit into the work environment well and that my team is very supportive of one another. I also managed to help my mentor lighten her workload without conflict. By the end of the internship, the marketing department was working well and my mentor suggested that I be converted into full-time staff.
I believe that the magic factor was being able to gel well with the team and improving their work efficiency. Communication is key and I was able to connect well with my colleagues, so work feels much lighter.
As a student, I was given the opportunity to intern under the Talent Development Programme (TDP) by Career Connect. In the programme, I worked with teams to host events and was given the chance to communicate with the student body, and pick up teamwork and communication skills.
I believe that these skills helped me hone my craft in becoming a Campus Marketer as I understood the problems of students and what they would be interested in during events. Through my days in the programme, I learnt that having a positive attitude and staying driven are very important. I believe that my drive and positive attitude are what helped me secure the conversion.
Some words of advice
Knowing what keeps you driven is important; it is the positive attitude that will get you through your worst days. What will make you stand out from the crowd is the way you treat work and how you communicate with your team. Being a problem-solver is a pro-tip, as you do not wish to add on to the current problem. Be polite. Stay driven.
James Koh
Bachelor of Science (Business Administration), SIM-UB Grasshopper Previous role: Investor Relations Intern Current role: Business Analyst
My role
As an intern, my role was to support the full-time analysts on strategy decks, data cleaning and client liaising. When I was converted to a full-time staff, I was tasked with building full-fledged monthly investor reports on Google’s looker platform for our fund.
I am also involved in a few trading strategy discussions where I follow up with various traders to collate information about their trades, new strategies as they learn about our niche and leading the investment team on a crypto investment strategy.
Overall, I would say it is more stressful as a full-time employee because your work now holds a lot of weight.
It gave me a headstart in understanding the jargon and strategies the firm uses. During my internship, it was a new environment for me and it was super exciting, so I was pretty keen to probe and ask more about the things I did not know about. The good thing about transitioning from an internship is that I had worked with everyone before, so the trust is there, and there is no need for me to assimilate into a new environment.
How I managed to secure my conversion
I think it is important to show that you are more than just an intern. Show that you buy into the projects you are working on, be proactive, take the initiative and help out any way you can. People will remember you and recommend you for conversion.
Being in CCAs taught me how to be flexible. CCAs in SIM especially have a very diverse crowd. We have people from all over Asia, so you definitely learn to work with different people. Another aspect is that all project groups naturally have teammates who are cooperative, as well as others who require some nudging!
However, full-time employment is a huge difference from academic projects because first and foremost, we do not get to choose our teammates. Secondly, there is no added incentive of a high GPA if you put in more effort and most CCAs events are more about community engagements than scoring a 4.0. Thus, you will learn how to manage and incentivise your team in a different way – similar to how it is at a typical working environment. Overall, these experiences helped me adopt a more flexible working style, which helped me adapt better in my internship, and now in my full-time work.
Some words of advice
My advice is to be okay with projects moving slowly, as long as you make sure you get your work done right. As students, we experience a fast-paced timeline, as projects have timelines that stretch two to three months. There, everything moves quickly and sometimes we skim through the process.
When we transition to working full-time, it is very important to take a step back and be meticulous to your best ability – being too much of a perfectionist may stifle your progress – and understand that while timelines are important, they should not be met at the expense of detail. Because once you have made a mistake, it is real money that is on the line!
