For many students, an internship is the first taste of real work. But for some, it becomes something more—a stepping stone to a full-time job offer.

At ESSEC Asia-Pacific, several students have successfully made this leap.

Their stories offer practical advice for anyone hoping to turn a short-term role into a lasting opportunity.

Real Stories, Real Lessons

Justina Hu, a Master in Management (MiM) graduate, landed an internship that not only helped her explore a career path but also gave her clarity and direction.

By asking questions early, stepping into stretch tasks, and staying open to feedback, she showed the kind of maturity recruiters look for.

She wasn’t just there to complete a checklist. She was there to contribute.

Similarly, Anwesha Das, a MiM graduate, treated her internship as more than a learning experience.

She tried to understand her team’s priorities, offered help where she saw gaps, and built strong working relationships.

That approach paid off. By the end of her internship, she was already being considered for longer-term opportunities.

How to Stand Out as an Intern

Here’s what students like Justina and Anwesha did differently:

• Start with purpose: They didn’t wait to be told what to do. On the first day, they asked their managers what success would look like by the end of their internships. That simple question set them up to deliver value from the start.
• Show up consistently: They weren’t just high performers for one week. They showed up early, followed through on every task, and informed their managers of their progress. When something went wrong, they didn’t hide it. They took responsibility.
• Speak up and contribute: They voiced ideas during team meetings. Even small suggestions—such as ways to improve a report or simplify a process—signaled that they were engaged and thinking like full-time employees.
• Make relationships count: They built trust with their teammates and consistently sought feedback. This improved their work and made them more visible within the team. When the company was hiring, they weren’t just another résumé. They were already part of the team.
• Ask about future roles: Midway through the internship, they had honest conversations with their managers about career opportunities. This showed confidence and interest without being pushy. It also gave their managers time to plan for possible hiring.

What Recruiters Are Really Looking For

Many recruiters say the deciding factor is not just skill. It’s attitude. They want interns who are curious, dependable, and proactive.

Interns who ask good questions, follow up without being reminded, and act like they care about the outcome of the work.

As one hiring manager shared, “We don’t expect interns to know everything. But we notice the ones who act like they belong here.”

Turning Your Internship into a Career Move

If you’re starting an internship soon, treat it as more than a trial. It’s your chance to show what kind of team member you would be full-time.

Start strong, stay consistent, and build lasting relationships. Your internship might only last a few months, but the impression you leave could shape your next job offer.