Internship Prep Guide

Plan with confidence. Set yourself up for success.

Congratulations on securing a internship! Whether this is your first internship or one of many, you’re embarking on an exciting step toward meeting your career goals. This guide is designed to help you prepare for a smooth and successful experience. From budgeting and housing, to getting around and preparing for your first day, we’ve gathered practical advice and resources to support you every step of the way.

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Before You Accept: Key Questions to Ask

Before formally accepting an internship offer, consider the full picture – logistics, financials, and personal readiness.

This is not an endorsement or an exhaustive list of resources. This guide will walk you through many of the factors involved, but your best planning tool is your own curiosity: research the organization, the internship location, and your housing or transportation needs.

Budgeting & Funding

Knowing what your internship will cost you upfront helps you make informed choices. Will you need to move? How will you cover rent, food, or transit? Creating a clear budget early on can help you determine if the opportunity is financially feasible and identify what support or resources you need.

Start by asking yourself:

  • Is the internship local, or will I need to relocate?
  • Is it paid, unpaid, or stipend-based?
  • What will my living situation be, and what are the associated costs?
  • How will I get to and from work?
  • Will I need professional attire or specialized equipment?
  • What will I eat and how often will I cook vs. eat out?
  • What other expenses should I plan for?

Revisit your budget often, especially if your financial circumstances change.

Tools & Resources

Housing & Relocation

Housing options vary by location and budget, and may include:

  • Staying with family or friends
  • Renting a room or apartment
  • Subletting student housing
  • Summer housing offered by local colleges or universities

Key Questions to Ask:

  • Is the housing furnished?
  • Are utilities and Wi-Fi included?
    • Current Wesleyan students may have access to eduroam in many locations
  • Are there accessibility needs (e.g., ground-floor, elevator)
  • Is it close to your internship, groceries, transit, etc.?
  • Is laundry onsite? If not, is there a laundromat or dry cleaner near by?
  • Is it safe and well-reviewed?

Avoiding Scams: Be cautious of offers that seem to good to be true. Never send money before confirming details and doing your research.

Relocation Assistance: Some employers offer support for travel, temporary housing, or moving costs. It’s okay to ask—respectfully and clearly—about whether they assist with moving costs, travel stipends, or housing help. Be prepared to explain what you need and how it would help you participate in the opportunity.

Transportation & Getting Around

Traveling to Your Internship

How far you’re traveling and how much you’re bringing will shape your travel plans.

  • For short-term internships, packing light and flying or taking a train/bus may be enough.
  • For longer stays, when brining more belongings, consider shipping, driving, or renting a vehicle or small moving truck.

Factor in the cost of transportation, luggage needs, and time off if needed for your move.

Local Transportation

Once you’ve arrived, how will you get to work?

  • Public Transit: Look into subway, train, or bus options in your area.
  • Personal Vehicle: Consider gas, parking availability and cost, and local driving laws.
  • Rideshares: While convenient, they can be expensive for daily use
  • Walking or Biking: Explore routes that are safe and practical.

Plan your commute in advance to reduce stress on your first day and help manage your time.

Not every state is represented and services may not cover an entire state.

Services may not cover an entire state.

Services may not cover an entire state.

Work Attire & Laundry

Dress codes vary by industry. Some common categories include:

  • Business professional (suits, dress shoes)
  • Business casual (button-downs, slacks)
  • Smart casual (a more polished everyday look)
  • Uniforms (scrubs, lab coats, etc.)

If you’re unsure of the requirements at your internship, it’s okay to as your supervisor or HR contact in advance. Check out Indeed’s Guide to Business Attire for more information and examples.

Laundry & Dry Cleaning

Some professional clothing requires dry cleaning or delicate care. Research local services near your housing if laundry isn’t available onsite. Plan to build these costs into your budget.

If needed, our Career Development Grant can help with purchasing affordable professional attire.

Getting to Know the Area

Spending time getting to know your new location before and during your internship can make a big difference in your comfort and confidence.

Here are a few places we recommend locating ahead of time:

  • Grocery stores and pharmacies
  • Coffee shops and Wi-Fi spots
  • Restaurants in your price range
  • Medical centers and urgent care
  • Laundromats or dry cleaners
  • Religious or spiritual community centers
  • Parks, librarires, museums, and entertainment options

Being familiar with your neighborhood can help reduce stress, make socializing easier, and make your internship feel more like home.

Getting Ready for Day One

You’ve made it! Here are a few final tips to help you feel prepared and confident:

  • Practice your commute before your first day–whether walking, driving, or using public transit.
  • Review your internship offer so you’re clear on the location, start time, and expectations.
  • Plan your outfit and pack your bag the night before so you’re not scrambling in the morning.
  • Grocery shop and meal prep, even if it’s just stocking up on snacks or a few frozen meals.
  • Get some rest and go to bed early–first days are exciting and can be tiring!

Take a deep breath–you’ve got this!

Have Suggestions or Questions?

This guide is a living resource, and we’d love your input. If you have tips or links you’d like us to add, email us at careercenter@wesleyan.edu.

Schedule an appointment to meet with a career advisor for confidential, individualized guidance and support.