If you want to land an entry-level job at a specific company after graduation, the best way to do it is to first prove yourself at that company through an internship or co-op.

But you can't expect to turn an internship into a full-time job just by showing up for your assignment with a pulse and a clock to watch the time go by.

"As an intern, you are in competition with other interns for full-time openings," says Christi Lehner, director of college relations for Abbott Laboratories, where 53 percent of the company's eligible interns were hired for full-time jobs in 2003. "You need to set yourself apart and show your value to the organization."

Here's how:

Take Your Role Seriously -- Very Seriously - "Treat your internship as if it was a real job," says Megan Elias, a public relations graduate from Westminster College in Pennsylvania. Elias interned with Animal Friends, an animal shelter in Pittsburgh, before landing a full-time job there last summer.

"Whether it's a full or part-time internship -- paid, unpaid or for college credits -- take it seriously," Elias says. "Work hard. Just because you're an intern doesn't mean you shouldn't take your duties seriously."

Elias knows whereof she speaks. During her special-events planning internship at Animal Friends, she coordinated a "Bark ‘n' Brew" social event, handling everything from making contacts and developing a budget to publicizing the event and even working with the participating dogs.

"Be proactive," says Jessica Eichner, special events coordinator for Animal Friends, and the person who closely observed Elias during her internship. "If you see something that needs to be started or can be improved, ask your supervisor if you can take on the job -- and then start working."

Go above and beyond the minimum.  Build Strong Relationships by Listening and Learning - It's critical for you to understand that, as an intern, you don't know everything, says Cory Otto, an industrial engineering graduate.

"Listening ties in to the ability to comprehend the tasks assigned to you," says Otto, who is now an associate operations engineer for the company. "It's important that you never assume you know what your boss wants. If you have any questions, ask."

"Interns need to be willing to learn something new every day," adds Kate Marzinske, an accountant with McGladrey & Pullen in Minneapolis who interned with the firm before landing a permanent position there after graduation. "If someone asks you to do something, don't be afraid to say, ‘I've never done that before, but I'm certainly willing to give it a try.'"

Tell Colleagues You Want to Stick Around - If you want a full-time job at the organization where you're interning, make sure the people there are aware of it. Never assume, stresses Bennett.

Caroline Levchuck at YAHOO says "Look the part and dress professionally. Don’t be stingy about paying your dues – do your tasks and assignments with a smile. Go above and beyond – Offer to help if you can, if someone is swamped. Seek out the extra work. Get to Know Everyone ... Especially Management. Do this early in your internship and it will serve as a good introduction for you."

If the internship doesn't segue immediately into a job, keep in contact and be persistent. Maybe there are no open positions or maybe you have another semester to complete before graduation. If that's the case, be sure to leave on the best possible terms. Write to your supervisor to thank him or her for the internship opportunity.

By Peter Vogt, MonsterTRAKCareer Coach

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