Internship Insights: Lauren Lois Ruiz
Embarking on the journey of internships is a crucial step for students, and gaining insights from those who have navigated this path can be enlightening. Lauren Lois Ruiz, a student from Enderun, shared her internship experiences, providing valuable advice for fellow students. She took her first internship at Builtamart (a premium online grocery mart that ships all over Metro Manila) as an operations intern and later, to The Bistro Group for her second internship— initially as a purchasing intern and later transitioning to marketing, sharing her insights.
A. What steps should students take to ensure they apply for internships relevant to their field of study, and what tips can you offer for standing out during the application and interview process?
For those eager to secure internships aligned with their program, she advises the first step is to narrow down the industry of interest. Create a list of companies within that industry, If possible, network with students who have worked or are currently working in those companies to gain insights into the work environment. She also emphasizes the importance of keeping your curriculum vitae (CV) up-to-date during application. Highlight relevant experiences from both academic and extracurricular activities, such as organization experiences! Before interviews, conduct thorough research on the company, it doesn’t hurt to ask around— understanding its profile, mission, and vision. Demonstrating knowledge about the company during the interview reflects your interest in applying as an intern.
Lauren suggests maintaining a professional appearance and demeanor when facing the interview process, whether in-person or online. Dress appropriately, brim with confidence, smile, and speak deliberately. Showcase your passion for the role you’re applying for and be open-minded about potential changes to your expected responsibilities. Lauren advises prioritizing factors based on personal values and goals. Aligning with your chosen industry ensures maximum growth and learning opportunities. Accept that not all companies offer the same benefits/compensation packages and weigh the importance of these against the potential for learning and career development.
(Photo above: Lauren in Bistro Group internship— holding multiple menus that represent the business)
B. When considering potential internship opportunities, how important is the company’s work environment, benefits/compensation package, and industry alignment, and how did you prioritize which factors are of utmost importance?
Lauren suggests that work environment and industry alignment should be prioritized, as they significantly impact job satisfaction and long-term career goals. Find a healthy work environment that promotes a work-life balance while aligning with your chosen industry. Learning and growth should be at the forefront of your priorities. It’s something to embark on and also, keep in mind whether you are a newbie, or a veteran intern.
C. What are some common concerns or challenges that you faced during your internship experience, and how did you proactively address or overcome these issues?
Internship experiences often come with challenges and concerns. For instance, communication barriers can be a significant hurdle, especially for those not fluent in the local language, as Lauren experienced. She does not really speak Filipino, although she understands it. It was a struggle for her to communicate back in fluent Filipino. Addressing such challenges requires proactive communication with colleagues and expressing a willingness to learn and adapt. Gradually integrating into the team’s communication dynamics can help overcome language barriers.
D. How did you make the most of their internship experience to prepare for post-graduation career opportunities?
To make the most of the internship experience in preparation for post-graduation opportunities, Lauren advises aiming for excellence in all tasks. Go beyond expectations, take initiative, express your ideas, and show genuine eagerness to learn. Prove to supervisors and colleagues that you’re not merely completing tasks but actively seeking to grow as a well-educated individual.
Lauren’s internship journey is an exciting and transformative phase, and her insights provide valuable guidance for students navigating similar paths. By following these steps and tips, individuals can navigate the internship application process, stand out during interviews, and leverage their experiences to pave the way for post-graduation career opportunities. Remember, each internship is a stepping stone towards building a rewarding professional journey.
