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Three things I learned from my STEM internship.

Interns collaborating

Doing an internship can be a fast-track for career development – especially if you are pursuing a career with a focus on Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) disciplines. For many, it is the first “real-world” opportunity to apply what we learned in academic experiences.

It can feel intimidating, but it is totally worth pushing out of your comfort zone.

Intern Emmett working in lab

In 2016, I had a chance to explore these benefits first-hand when I joined 3M as the first 3M™ VHB™ Tape Extreme Labs Research Scientist Intern. I attended an on-campus event at Queen’s University, where I learned about the company and their 3M™ VHB™ Tape, and was invited to apply for this internship.

Since landing the job, my experience has been far beyond what I expected and I have developed skills that will help me as I prepare for my next challenge: graduate school.

Intern Emmett working in lab

“Here’s a pro tip: don’t be afraid to ask for help. Most people are more willing to help than you think.” – Emmett, Research Scientist Intern, 3M Canada

What my internship taught me

Here are three key skills I will take from my experience in the 3M lab that I believe would benefit all STEM students:

  • Investigation: When you’re given an opportunity to hone those research skills you learned in the classroom, grab it! This was one of the most exciting aspects of my internship. Dig deep into your subject matter, learn from those around you, and then apply what you learned to your project.
  • Problem solving: Always remember there are multiple ways to tackle the same problem. If one method doesn’t work, be open and flexible to try something else.
  • Collaboration: Working with others and developing people skills is one of my most important takeaways. Team goals can be achieved when everyone shares ideas and develops strategies together.

Intern Emmett working in lab

Looking for a STEM internship?

Are you on the hunt for an internship opportunity?

Talk to your Academic Advisor, or check out the Careers section for companies you are interested in. 3M Canada, where I interned, is always posting new opportunities.

If you think my intern experience sounds cool, check out the 3M™ VHB™ Tape Extreme Labs website.

You won’t regret it.

About the Author

[enBio=Emmett is the original 3M™ VHB™ Tape Extreme Labs intern. A recent graduate of the prestigious Engineering Physics program at Queen’s University, he pursued an internship at 3M to enrich his academic experience and slingshot his career path forward. When Emmett is not in the lab, he enjoys spending time travelling and playing Innertube Water Polo.],[enJob=Research Scientist Intern, 3M Canada],[frBio=Emmett est le premier stagiaire du laboratoire de recherches extrêmes sur le ruban adhésif VHB de 3M. Diplômé du prestigieux programme de génie physique de l'Université Queen's, il a fait un stage chez 3M pour enrichir son expérience scolaire et propulser sa carrière. Lorsqu'Emmett n'est pas au laboratoire, il aime voyager et pratiquer le water-polo en tube.],[frJob=Stagiaire en recherches scientifiques, Compagnie 3M Canada]

Profile Photo of Intern Emmett