6 Essential Steps To Successfully Turn Your Internship Into A Full-Time Job
Making an impression during your internship can help you land a full-time role
Landing a full-time job from an internship is a dream for most business students—but how do you do it? We spoke to a graduate of Nanyang Business School to find out
SPONSORED BY
By Abigail Lister
Tue May 30 2023
Landing an internship while studying at business school can be the launchpad for career success. Internships allow you to put your new knowledge and skills into practice, and impressing your manager could result in a full-time job offer.
But how do you get there? Sylwia Tran (pictured) is one business student who managed it.
She moved to Singapore to complete a Master’s in Marketing Science offered by Nanyang Business School, NTU Singapore. After graduating, she landed a six-month internship at Heineken in Singapore, which she successfully turned into a full-time assistant brand manager role.
We spoke to Sylwia to find her six top tips for making that lucrative internship a long-term job.
1. Understand the local culture
Part of the reason for moving to Singapore to complete her degree was to get insights into the working culture in Asia. As her Master’s program neared its end, Sylwia found a short, three-month internship at a local furniture company called Castlery. This local experience made landing other internships much easier.
“The competition in Singapore was very tough, especially for a foreigner like me,” she explains.
“In the internship interviews after graduating, they would say, ‘I see that you’ve already worked for three months in Singapore, so I guess you’re familiar with the way of working and the culture.’ That gave me a little bit of an advantage.”
Sylwia adds that understanding which companies are hiring foreigners will also help you prioritize opportunities.
2. Be intentional with your internship applications
With so much competition for internship contracts, many students take a ‘quantity over quality’ approach, applying to as many opportunities as possible. But Sylwia advises against this.
“I was not applying massively—I was very, very intentional in every application,” she explains.
With a target industry and department in mind, Sylwia sent out 10-15 internship applications tailored specifically to each role.
This intentionality meant Sylwia could spend more time tailoring her cover letter and CV to each role, adding keywords and matching job descriptions to tasks she’d completed in past work. And it worked—Sylwia landed a six-month role as a marketing excellence intern.
3. Make the right first impression
First impressions count, especially if you’re trying to turn your internship into a full-time career. Sylwia says that although your first week on the job might not be too intensive, having the right mindset is vital.
“I didn't do much to prepare,” she admits. “Just make sure you're well presented, be positive and excited, and get to know people.”
4. Have frequent check-ins with your manager
Sylwia advises students to focus on developing a relationship with their manager, which could make the difference between getting a job offer and not.
“I made sure that I always had a weekly catch-up with my manager, just to make sure that we were aligned regarding tasks and expectations,” Sylwia explains.
A strong relationship with your manager can also help if you need to speak to someone about your struggles during your internship.
“I remember I was so nervous and stressed out for the first two months because it’s the time when the learning curve is very steep,” Sylwia says. “But if you struggle initially, it's essential to communicate and talk about those struggles.”
5. Focus on building a network
While many graduates will prioritize building connections with senior management at their internship, Sylwia says the breadth of contacts you’re making also matters.
“Though you need to focus on your hiring manager, it’s a big plus to have a good relationship with everyone else,” she says. She advises students to network widely and to put effort into making those connections.
“It's your job to remember the people you’re working with, thank them, or even just casually invite them for coffee to build connections,” Sylwia explains.
6. Make an impression
“I think when we do an internship, we think that we’re not contributing enough and that we’re nobody,” Sylwia says. Instead, make yourself seen through getting credit for projects or just being someone people know.
Sylwia asserts: “Don’t be afraid to show what you’ve done during your time, and don’t take any internships just to do work. You need to make sure to be heard and seen.”
Sylwia thought this had the most significant impact on landing her full-time role at Heineken.
“It's all about taking the initiative. We don't need to know everything—it’s about showing commitment, ambition, and passion.”
This is a great place to learn and interact with more like-minded people. The campus is something that stands out to me. The infrastructure is great and the university is very well-built. There is lots to do on the high campus, from a large number of eating joints to the numerous clubs and sports activities. I also quite like Singapore as a country, as there is so much to do around not very far from campus. The educational facilities are extremely good, there are lots of opportunities to take on research projects and do industrial projects, which I really enjoy. The only thing I dislike about NTU is that the number of international students is really low and I would like to see a larger international intake in the future. Definitely recommend for the amazing educational facilities and on-campus social life.
Student
Verified
12/06/2020
An international campus that provided diverse choices for students
It's a beautiful campus with a high degree of internationality, providing diverse choices for students in terms of research opportunities and career consultation. Also, scholars are knowledgable and very inspiring, and are good at motivating the thinking of students.
Student
Verified
12/06/2020
Great University
In overall, the university has met my expectations with its wonderful lectures and research staff. However, there are some issues with the administrative side, i.e. administration may give you different answers on the same question. Also, the university’s website often provides outdated information and it takes time to get what you need; perhaps there is not enough people for managing it.
Student
Verified
1/06/2020
Good resources
I would recommend. Good resources for research. Knowledgeable professors and instructors. Conducive environment for studying and doing assignments. Helpful staff and faculty. Food options are good. An overall good place to study.
Student
Verified
18/09/2023
On Campus
inefficient communication and lack of transparency
The administrative team at the university is slow to respond and is often inadequate in their responses and solutions. The uni is also unclear and resistant to explain their actions and motivations when carrying out policies or when questioned
Nilah
Verified
13/03/2024
On Campus
Formative experience for success
NTU prioritizes giving students ample time for independent research. The academic schedule consists of 6–7 weeks of study, followed by a week without classes, allowing students to catch up on any material they may have missed. This is succeeded by another 6–7 weeks of study, culminating in a week dedicated to final exam preparation and exams.
The curriculum is designed to be student-friendly, minimizing burdens such as excessive assignments, projects, exams, quizzes, and attendance requirements. This approach affords students the freedom to pursue personal interests and self-development. In my experience, each of the four courses I took had a comparable workload, typically comprising 2 assignments, 3 easy labs, 2–3 quizzes (some without), and 1 final exam.
In contrast, comparable courses at other universities often entail significantly heavier workloads, including 3 homework assignments, 5 projects, 5–6 pop-up quizzes, mandatory attendance, 2 midterms, and 1 final exam. Moreover, each project typically demands 3–4 days of work.
It is hard work, but it pays off.
Lim
Verified
11/04/2024
On Campus
Academic atmosphere
Nanyang Technological University offers a vibrant academic atmosphere that fosters innovation and excellence. The strong emphasis on research and practical learning equips students with real-world skills. Positives include access to state-of-the-art facilities, collaborative projects, and a diverse student body. However, the competitive environment can be intense, leading to high stress levels. NTU's academic atmosphere encourages growth but requires resilience to thrive.
Xu
Verified
11/04/2024
On Campus
Diverse professors
As a student at Nanyang Technological University, I have been extremely impressed with the quality of education I have received. The professors are knowledgeable, approachable, and passionate about their subjects, which makes learning engaging and enjoyable.
The teaching styles vary from lecture-based to interactive discussions and group projects, providing a well-rounded learning experience. The use of technology in the classrooms also enhances our understanding of the course material. One of the things I love about NTU is the diversity on campus. Not only are there students from all over the world, but the professors also come from various backgrounds, making the learning environment truly global. English is the main language spoken on campus, which makes it easy for international students to feel at home. In terms of examinations and coursework, the workload can be challenging at times, but the support from professors and classmates makes it manageable. The exams are fair and assess our understanding of the material effectively.
Lee
Verified
11/04/2024
On Campus
Video lectures
As a student at Nanyang Technological University, I am extremely impressed with the transportation options available on campus. The buses and shuttles make it easy to get around the huge campus. The beautifully landscaped garden campus adds a peaceful and scenic vibe to studying. The facilities, from the state-of-the-art labs to the comfortable study spaces, are top-notch. The video lectures are a convenient and effective way to supplement classroom learning.
Jain
Verified
11/04/2024
On Campus
Focus on science
Nanyang Technological University (NTU) excels in its focus on engineering and science degrees. The curriculum is robust, integrating theoretical knowledge with practical applications. Professors are industry experts, providing invaluable insights. State-of-the-art facilities enhance learning experiences. Opportunities for research and internships abound, fostering innovation and professional growth. NTU's emphasis on cutting-edge technology prepares students for real-world challenges. NTU's commitment to engineering and science education is unparalleled, shaping tomorrow's leaders in these fields.
Haidar
Verified
10/04/2024
Blended
great canteens
While at Nanyang Technological University, I can confidently say that the quality of education here is excellent. The professors are knowledgeable and passionate about their subjects, and the curriculum is challenging yet rewarding. The campus itself is green and natural, providing a peaceful and inspiring environment for learning. The canteens offer a wide variety of delicious and affordable food options, catering to different dietary preferences. From local delights to international cuisines, there is something for everyone. The student housing facilities are also well-maintained and comfortable, providing a home away from home for students. NTU's reputation as a top-ranked university is well-deserved, with cutting-edge research and a strong emphasis on innovation.
Naili
Verified
10/04/2024
On Campus
high quality education
Nanyang Technological University (NTU) is a top-notch educational institution that offers a wide range of programs and opportunities for students. The campus is well-equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, and the faculty members are highly experienced and knowledgeable in their fields. As a student at NTU, I have had a positive experience so far. The university provides a conducive learning environment and encourages students to think critically and creatively. The campus is vibrant and diverse, with a strong sense of community among students and staff. I would definitely recommend NTU to prospective students looking for a high-quality education in a supportive and stimulating environment. The opportunities for research, internships, and extracurricular activities are plentiful, and the university is committed to providing a well-rounded education that prepares students for future success.
Tan
Verified
11/04/2024
On Campus
Student experience
As a student at Nanyang Technological University (NTU), the experience is vibrant and enriching. Surrounded by lush greenery, the campus offers a serene environment for studying and relaxation. While parties and nightlife options are available, the focus leans more towards academic pursuits. The campus buzzes with activities, clubs, and events, catering to diverse interests. However, the tuition cost is competitive, offering value for the exceptional education and resources provided. I recommend my university
Ilyanajwa
Verified
11/04/2024
On Campus
High quality of life
As a student at Nanyang Technological University, I'm thoroughly impressed with the quality of education. The faculty is highly knowledgeable and supportive, fostering an engaging learning environment. Tuition fees are reasonable for the value provided. The campus food options are diverse and delicious, catering to various dietary preferences. The transport system is efficient, with easy access to public transportation. NTU offers a high quality of life, combining academic excellence with a vibrant campus culture.
Shi
Verified
12/04/2024
On Campus
good value for money
At Nanyang Technological University, I find the tuition fees reasonable considering the quality of education and resources provided. The university offers diverse programs, experienced faculty, modern facilities, and opportunities for research and internships. While tuition costs are substantial, the value for money is evident in the comprehensive learning experience and the potential for career advancement. NTU delivers on its promise of excellence, making it a worthwhile investment in one's future.