From Intern to Employee: How to Turn Your Internship Into a Job

This short guide is designed to help you have a focused, professional conversation with your supervisor about future internship or employment opportunities after your current internship ends. 

When should I ask?

  • 2 –4 weeks before your internship ends, or after you’ve completed a major project
  • During a scheduled check-in or a dedicated career/mentoring conversation
  • If you’ve already demonstrated impact, skills growth, and strong fit with the team

Prepare: Before the Conversation

  • Provide 2–3 concrete contributions you’re proud of
  • Collect any positive feedback or metrics from your current internship
  • Think about the type of opportunity you want
  • Prepare a 1–2 sentence statement and a concrete direct ask (e.g., “I’d like to explore whether there could be a full-time role in your team after graduation.”) 

What should I say?

Be direct and honest

“I’ve really enjoyed contributing to [project/team] and I’ve learned a lot about [specific skills or domain]. I’m interested in continuing with [team/role] after my internship ends, if there’s an opportunity.”

Highlight your fit and value

“My work on [project] helped with [outcome], and I’m eager to build on that by [specific contribution].”

“This mission of this company aligns with my values, and I know I can continue making a meaningful contribution if the opportunity allows.”

Questions to ask

“I noticed there was an open position on the [department/team name] for a [role title]. Would you recommend I apply through [career portal] or contact [HR/recruiter]?” 

“Would you be open to keeping me in mind for upcoming roles, or connecting me with the right person?” 

“What steps should I take to be considered?” 

Tips to Consider

Voice and Tone

Keep tone positive, professional, and forward-looking

Respect Time

Request a short 15-20 min chat

Highlight Impact

Bring or share a one-page summary of your contributions and outcomes

Gratitude

Open with appreciation and context

State your interest clearly

Be direct and honest with your request

Ask for next steps

If opportunities are available, ask how you should apply

After the Conversation: Follow-Up

Send a follow-up email to thank your supervisor for the conversation as well as to summarize the discussion and next steps. Below is a helpful template you can use: 

Hi [Supervisor’s Name], 

Thank you again for taking the time to discuss my internship and potential opportunities on the [team/department] after my current internship ends. I’ve reflected on our conversation and remain very interested in continuing to contribute to [specific project or area] and building on the skills I’ve gained, especially in [skill or outcome]. 

To recap, I understand that the next steps could include [agreed action, e.g., applying to a role, connecting with HR, or exploring part-time/contract work]. I’m happy to take as needed steps and meet again to discuss progress. Specifically, I can [brief action you will take, e.g., submit an application, reach out to [HR/contact], prepare a short portfolio summarizing impact]. 

Would you be available for a brief check-in on [proposed date/time or range] to review any openings or referrals, or to confirm the next steps? I’m flexible and can adjust to your schedule. 

Thank you again for your guidance and support. 

Best regards,

Your name

your email / phone number

What if they’re not hiring?

  • Ask, “When would be a good time to follow up?”
  • Ask, “Is there someone in your network you can connect me with?” (Referrals are huge!)
  • If your supervisor isn’t hiring, ask for referrals to other teams within the organization or to alumni/contacts in your field
  • If a full-time offer isn’t available, express openness to other opportunities, such as part-time, project-based, or contract work, or another clean pathway to future employment