*I am the queen of unpaid internships.* Every summer, I manage to snag at least two or three voluntary stints. It's the curse of the creative industries; we don't operate on instant gratification. But even though shopping trips were few and far between, I still managed to get a ton out of my gigs. I learned that if you step it up, you're certain to learn more and earn yourself that positive rep you desire. _How do you actually "step it up?"_ Follow these five tips to make sure your next interning gig is a success!

1. Never Do Nothing

Sure, it's a double negative, but it's true. Sitting in front of a blank screen will get you nowhere. A friend of mine would spend her afternoons watching Dawson's Creek re-runs at her desk TV. You might as well lie in bed the whole summer with a stack of Kevin Smith movies _(it would keep you more entertained than the Joey-Dawson-Pacey love triangle)._ When you run out of work don't bite your fingernails and read the latest InStyle. Go first to your supervisor and ask for projects. If he's out of ideas, walk around your department and politely and unobtrusively ask if anyone needs a hand. You're sure to get feedback. Seeking out assignments means you are hard-working and dedicated. It tells employers that you can be that go-to, aggressive employee they would want. At the same time, you'll be getting more experience and knowledge!

2. Be Innovative

Let's say Ms. Supervisor is out of the office and all the other employees in your group are at a meeting. It's high time to e-mail your friends at their respective worksites, right? Think again. Pump your creative juices and brainstorm new ideas that will impress your employers. If you work for a publication, think of some fresh articles or a hip page layout. Advertising and marketing interns can devise original ways to reach their audience. If you are tech-savvy, you can even write a program that will make your finance buddies' jobs just that much easier. Remember, not everyone can prove a complex mathematical theory. Work with your strengths and your superiors will recognize your efforts.

3. Network

So you work for NBC in Production, but you don't know what television department is your best fit. Use the e-mail directory as guidance and send a letter to people who work in Research and Creative Services. In the e-mail state that you're working at NBC, why you're interested in their department and what you hope to gain from a meeting. Most people are more than willing to help. A friend of mine worked in Human Resources for a major bank and ended up making investment banking connections from career panels. It's also important to network within your department, even if you're convinced that it's not the right place for you. The more solid contacts you have in your industry, the easier it will be to find a job. Set up lunch meetings with a senior account manager or editor. In the process, you'll take a way a great deal about what it's like working at your company as a full-timer. Don't undermine the importance of socializing with your fellow interns. They could one day give you a job or job lead when you're out of work.

4. Be Professional

_Jackie went to a JP Morgan recruitment event at Capital Grille, a chic midtown eatery. When she got off the 4-5-6 at Grand Central, she was on top of her game, ready to take on whatever came her way. After meeting several bankers, she headed over to the open bar in the back for her favorite drink, a vodka tonic. Her new buzz made her feel even more confident and friendly. So she had another. And then another. And then her game went perklunk._ Jackie's mistake is that she lost her professional demeanor. When you're interacting with employers in and out of the workplace, maturity, respect, and responsibility are highly valued. What's more, your appearance should always look neat and professional. When creating an appropriate wardrobe, take a cue from others in the office. More casual internships allow jeans and T-shirts, but employers always look down on low-cut shirts or too-short skirts. Unless you're in the fashion industry, you want to play down your outfit and makeup so people pay attention to you and not what you're wearing.

5. Have a Good Attitude

Perhaps the cardinal rule of an internship should be taken from a cute, little, curly red-head _"You're never fully dressed without a smile."_ Sure, fact-checking, data input, photo-copying and errands are not part of your usual college routine. You're an independent, savvy, bright go-getter and you want some real, challenging work to do. Well, patience is a virtue, my friend. Pay your dues and your wish will be granted. In the meanwhile, don't let it get to you. Flash those pearly whites and show your cute dimples. Interns have been ruled out of job positions for complaining to other interns and, worse, to full-time employees! Drop the mood even if you're doing menial tasks; they are a means to an end. Show your employers how excited you are to be there and to help out. Read More