International Travel Handbook

KEYS TO SUCCESS FOR INTERNATIONAL INTERNSHIP EXPERIENCES

You will be facing an adjustment to a new organizational culture and the culture of an unfamiliar country, and have a limited amount of time there. It is important to define clear Terms of Reference (TOR) with your supervisor that make the most of your time, for both you and the organization. Terms of Reference is a document which describes the purpose and structure of a project, committee, meeting, or negotiation. The Terms should address employer expectations, goals, primary duties, dates and locations.

• Be independent. Most organizations have human resources constraints and have limited time to supervise or assist a temporary employee.
• Be focused. Concentrate on making an impact and contributing to the organization’s goals and objectives.
• Be flexible. Even in the most advanced organizations, needs evolve rapidly.
• Outstanding performance leads to outstanding recommendations.
• Be proactive and innovative. For example, suggest improved IT procedures or assessment or evaluation methods that the organization might value.
• Get to know all staff, not just your supervisor and the director.
• Adjust your expectations to the realities on the ground.

From the organization’s perspective, an intern requires time and investment so that he or she can contribute and learn. Staff might feel apprehension about the intern’s arrival. Establishing an attainable goal, with three or four concrete tasks within a project makes intern supervision easier. How much should the intern engage with the client? This will vary greatly by organization. The supervisor and the intern should discuss a reasonable level of contact. Satisfaction in managing interns is important for the organization and for its continuing relationship with Harvard and for the field.
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