Setting Learning Goals

Why Set Learning Goals?

Setting goals for your internship isn’t just a formality—it’s a power move. Here’s why:

  • Shows you’re serious about making the most of your experience
  • Keeps you and your supervisor aligned on expectations
  • Builds key professional skills like planning, prioritizing, and accountability
  • Most importantly: it helps you learn more and grow faster

What Should Your Goals Focus On?

Your goals can be about:

  • Skills you want to build (e.g., writing, coding, presenting)
  • Knowledge you want to gain (e.g., industry tools, company processes)
  • Personal or professional growth (e.g., confidence, networking, time management)

Make Your Goals SMART

Great goals are SMART:

  • S – Specific
    • What do you specifically hope to accomplish?
  • M – Measurable
    • How will you measure your progress?
  • A – Action-oriented
    • What actions will you take to achieve this goal?
  • R – Relevant
    • How is this goal relevant to your internship, academic interests and/or career aspirations?
  • T – Time-bound
    • What is your timeline for meeting this goal?

Examples of SMART Goals

  • By mid-internship, I’ll write a 1-page press release using AP style
  • By July 30, I’ll troubleshoot Excel issues with 97% accuracy
  • Within 1 month, I’ll add 50 new leads to the customer database
  • By the end of my internship, I’ll design and lead 2 training sessions
  • In the first 2 weeks, I’ll memorize 20 key acronyms used at the agency
  • By week 5, I’ll identify 3 career paths in this field and 1 way to explore each
  • By the fundraising deadline, I’ll secure in-kind donations from 5 companies

Goal-Setting Tips

  • Avoid vague goals like “learn about marketing”—be specific and measurable
  • 2–3 solid goals are plenty for a quarter-long internship
  • Expect to revise your goals after feedback—it’s part of the process!

How to Set & Track Your Goals

  1. Before you start: Brainstorm what you want to learn or achieve
  2. First week: Meet with your supervisor to finalize your goals in writing
  3. Weekly or biweekly: Check in on your progress
  4. Midway: Reflect with your supervisor—what’s working? What needs adjusting?
  5. End of internship: Review your progress and celebrate your wins!

Internships are more than just a line on your résumé—they’re a chance to grow, explore, and shine. Setting clear goals helps you make the most of every opportunity.