Sure, landing a summer job is great: the steady income and new networking opportunities are terrific, and hey, now you even have someplace air conditioned to hang out during the hot summer months!

But seriously, the summer intern experience shouldn’t end here. The best intern positions are as challenging as they are exciting. They should offer exposure and development. Unfortunately, this is easier said than done. The problem is: many departments are so busy during the summer months that the professional development of summer students doesn’t always top the list of priorities.

But the onus doesn’t just fall on your manager; you can take action to ensure you’re making the best use of your summer job. Assuming that summer students are typically looking to expand their knowledge of their respective industries, here are some tips for making the most of your summer internship:

• Do your homework: Find out what developmental programs might be available to you through your company. Many times, these info sessions are free for your company to send you to.
• Make an appointment: set aside some time to talk to your boss specifically about growth opportunities, he/she might have some suggestions for you.
• Ask for contacts: talk to your boss or someone who has been in the company long enough to have established a reliable network of contacts in the company or industry. Meet with them during the summer while you’re affiliated with the company. Once school starts, it can be much more difficult to correspond with a network.
• Look for clubs that are organized through your work: They will help you expand your network and develop a new skill set. I really enjoyed taking part in Toastmasters’ meetings that took place in my building last summer.
• The summer will be over soon, you have resources at your disposal today, take advantage.
• Be a keener: You’ve got nothing to lose! Your workplace is full of opportunities but you’ll have to take the initiative to seek them out, don’t be shy!

I truly do believe that the best job experiences offer you a view at different areas of the organization, a chance to explore and learn new programs, new systems and develop new skills. But don’t wait for opportunity to come knocking, go beyond the cubicle, get off you swivel chair and take action today!