When an internship ends, it’s common for supervisors to provide feedback—but that’s only half of the picture. Interns should take the initiative to assess their own performance too. Internship self-evaluation tips help students, job seekers, and early-career professionals clarify their strengths, identify gaps, and better position themselves for future roles. A thoughtful self-assessment can be the key to standing out in competitive job markets.
Questions to Ask Yourself After an Internship
Use the following questions to guide your reflection and uncover insights that align with your long-term career goals:
1. Was the internship what you expected?
If it didn’t meet your expectations, identify why. Maybe you spent most of your time doing administrative work instead of gaining hands-on experience. Recognizing mismatches can help you choose better-fitting roles in the future.
2. What was the most rewarding part—and why?
Pinpoint the tasks you enjoyed most. If researching online data was a highlight, you might consider roles in analytics or content strategy rather than creative design.
3. What didn’t you enjoy—and why?
Understanding what drained you is just as valuable. For example, if lengthy meetings felt unproductive, you might thrive in a startup environment with fewer formalities.
4. Did you gain any unexpected insights?
If you interned at a retail store and realized customer service isn’t for you, maybe a behind-the-scenes role in merchandising or logistics is more aligned with your skills.
5. How would you rate your internship experience (1–10)?
A score below 7 suggests it wasn’t a good fit. Make a list of pros and cons to analyze the experience in detail.
6. Would you recommend the internship to a peer?
If not, consider why. Perhaps the lack of mentorship made it hard for you to grow. This can help you prioritize workplace culture and leadership in future opportunities.
7. What skills and knowledge did you gain—and how will you use them?
Whether it’s communication, time management, or technical tools, think about how you can apply these in future roles. Update your resume with specific examples.
Final Thoughts: Turn Reflection Into Direction
Self-evaluation isn’t just a thoughtful exercise—it’s a career-building strategy. By reflecting on your experience, identifying what worked and what didn’t, and being honest about your strengths and preferences, you gain clarity that helps guide your next steps. Use these insights to tailor your job applications, strengthen interviews, and build a career that aligns with your goals.