I also integrated in about 2 weeks, and it feels like I’m in a group of friends that is more than just a company. We have a really friendly atmosphere where we have a lot of inside jokes together, which helps to never feel alone. You notice that everyone stands behind the startup’s vision and mission, and this feels good. It’s also interesting that we have a very multicultural group, and a roughly 50/50 male to female ratio, which is quite unique in the male-dominant tech industry.
What reasons would you give for doing an internship in a startup?
Davina: There is flexible management of the company, which actually listens to what I’m having to say. This means that I’m more involved in decision making and that my voice and actions directly impact and reflect the startup’s success. As such, I’m more than just an intern like I was during my previous internship, which enables me to really evolve both as a person and as a professional.
Arthur: If you have the chance to do an internship in 2 places, choose a startup and a corporate environment, because this way you learn most and notice what you prefer best! At a startup, you are more involved, which means that you also have more responsibility. You have to set your own agenda and decide how you manage your tasks effectively, while your tasks are also a bigger part of the entire company process. Also, there is more inclusion and a more aligned vision, which is a powerful feeling and working atmosphere to be in. At Incooling, for example, we all have a sustainability vision, and management cares a lot about everyone involved.
What advice would you give to people looking for a startup internship?
Davina: Begin with asking your friends and family, via connections it’s always easier to get in. Also, make sure to start looking early, because there are many students all over the world looking and applying for internships here. The process might take long, so make sure to keep it interesting for yourself. For example, I rephrased my applications and constantly updated things because I got bored with myself to the point that I didn’t even like my picture anymore. Make sure to do real research too: skip the first few pages on Google, use different keywords for your interests, and check for blogs on startup companies in your interest field.
Arthur: Even if you get rejected many times, don’t let yourself get demotivated because of this. Embrace it as part of the process, because that way you’ll be able to improve your application with every time you go for it! Try to look beyond LinkedIn and advertisements too when you search for a startup because these are usually not on top of the list. Finally, really look at a startup goal that you align with because you’ll be very involved in this once you get started.
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