As the Hilton 2023 Summer Internship wrapped up in August, we asked some interns to reflect on their summer experiences.
As part of the program, our interns learned from diverse challenges, experienced leaders, and unique perspectives throughout their time at Hilton, making them better prepared for the professional world. In this blog post, six Hilton interns share their key takeaways and offer advice for future interns who aspire to join #TeamHilton.
Now that the internship has concluded, what are your biggest takeaways and lessons you learned that can be passed down to future interns?
Amira Daniel, 2023 Summer Intern, Communications
"Each person at Hilton is genuinely willing to speak to the interns and help them learn more about what they do at Hilton. Getting to work at a large company like Hilton gives you access to lots of knowledgeable and great people! I recommend using the opportunity of being an intern to speak to as many different people as possible and try to learn as much as you can. Additionally, take it as a time to understand where your strengths lie and the areas where you can grow."
Victoria Perez, 2023 Summer Intern, Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion
"Come in with an open mind: Throughout your internship, you will work on many projects, some of which you have yet to learn about until you start. Do not be intimidated by the unknown. Instead, embrace it and learn as much as possible to utilize those skills in the future.
Do not be afraid to advocate for your ideas: As an intern, you may feel afraid to speak up, but I encourage you to share your opinions with your team. This is vital to your growth as a young professional, and the team may adopt your thoughts to start a new initiative!
Always ask for help when you need it: This is something that I know many people struggle with, regardless of age; however, keep in mind that you will only benefit from what you put into the experience. Act like a sponge and soak up all the knowledge you can through your questions and experiences."
What advice do you have for future interns when they are in the application and interview process?
Lindsay Collins, 2023 Summer Intern, Special Events
"For future interns excited about the application and interview process, I recommend utilizing your network as much as you can. Reach out to different professors or mentors, and they can help with formatting your resume. It is good to practice as much as possible during the interview process. Reach out to multiple people that you look up to and are comfortable with and ask them to ask you “mock interview” questions. It is good to practice interviewing people to gain unique feedback."
Mohit Shinde, 2023 Summer Intern, Tech Program Management
"The first thing that comes to mind while in the application and interview process is to be yourself. The interviews are meant to find out who you are as an individual. The technical and job-related skills are essential and will be tested, but at the same time, if you are willing to give your 100% and show motivation, it will help."
What advice would you give a Hilton Corporate Intern to help them succeed during their internship?
Zachary Andrzejewski, 2023 Summer Intern, Development Strategy & Operations
"The biggest thing I learned this summer is not to be afraid. Do not hesitate to ask questions because your manager will see you engaged. Do not fear trying to network with others; they will be excited to have a 1:1 or coffee chat. The most significant part is not to be scared to fail at something the first time. Your manager does not expect you to be perfect; they will look to see how you pick yourself up and improve."
Cole Bower, 2023 Summer Intern, Database Administrator
"My most significant insight gained from this internship pertains to the importance of internal networking. Through engagements such as the executive speaker series and face-to-face interactions with senior leadership, I have consistently found occasions to establish meaningful connections and gain invaluable insights from individuals occupying influential organizational roles. As an incoming intern, engage with these events and utilize the resources given to you."
