INTERNSHIP ISSUE

Question

Hi, I am currently doing an internship where my job role is  software engineering. However, two months in ,and we. SE interns have done nothing related to SE except an online course. Tasks given have been around generating leads and Social media engagement. I am frustrated as I am not growing my skills or adding value. Should I quit or just wait for the 3 months to roll. Any advice?

Jennifer Huang · Answer

I agree with LadyPele above, just wanted to add, you could try to network while you’re there.  Especially if you have nothing to lose, ask if employees would do a virtual coffee chat so you can get to know their background.  Find out if they have any advice, tell them about yourself.  Then if you do leave you may have helped build your network.

Anonymous · Answer

Thank you for the responses. I will surely use them to craft thee next step.

Aly Brine · Answer

I understand your frustration, but before you leave the position, have you had a chance to have any discussions with a manager or with a mentor about what you would like to be learning in this position? Things are really crazy right now so they might not actually realize that they aren't giving you what you were looking for and what you need in your internship. Sometimes it takes you speaking up and asking for more and asking for what you want to truly make the experience what you're looking for.

Lady Pele · Answer

Are you getting paid and / or getting school credit for the internship?  Are you learning any skills that will transfer to another area, such as time management, documentation, communication, or conflict resolution?  If yes to any of that, it's probably worth your time to stay, plus it can be added to your resume.

If no to any of the above, say 'hasta la vista baby'.

Vivian Chen · Answer

I'm sorry to hear you're not finding your internship very engaging! Have you tried speaking with your mentor(s)/supervisors about this? I understand how frustrating it can be to feel that you are not developing important skills or learning. I would suggest bringing this up to someone more senior and if you don't get any response, then perhaps it may be time to explore something else. There are a ton of opportunities out there and you can definitely make use of platforms such as GFB or joinrise.co to find interesting remote SE opportunities for the remaining months. Good luck!

WHOOPIE WANJA WANJIRU · Answer

No not getting paid nor is it for credit. Soft skills I have learnt-non so far. I thought maybe it was me or sth. Also thought won't it be a problem if on LinkedIn/CV I write I was an SE intern but giving more details on duties and achievement it does not show any SE?

INTERNSHIP ISSUE

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