16 Habits That Will Make You a Superstar Intern

Whether you’re interning from home or relocating to NYC for the summer, it’s likely you’re gearing up for 10 weeks of learning, networking and exploring. Internships are more than just another bullet point on your resume; they’re an amazing way to discover what you want out of your career. Additionally, they’re a great way to guarantee job security after college. In fact, 71% of college graduates who interned in college were able to find full-time employment after graduation, according to Gallup. If you really want to rock out your summer internship and get the most of your experience, here are 16 shining qualities you need to be superstar interns.

1. Show up ready to learn. Wanna impress the boss? Soak up every nugget of knowledge he or she has to offer, ask lots of questions and take notes. This thirst for knowledge will make you stand out from the other interns.

2. Arrive 15 minutes early for everything. Ever heard of the rule, “If you’re not five minutes early, you’re late?” Well, this definitely applies to your internship. Even if your boss rolls into work 15 minutes late every day, make sure you’re always early and prepared to work.

3. Be resourceful. You’re going to have lots of learning curves as a new intern, but it’s important to search for answers before immediately asking your boss. You might surprise yourself with the solutions you find on your own.

4. Have an upbeat and professional attitude. It’s soooo important to be an approachable and friendly intern. Even if you feel a little overwhelmed by the projects or meetings, a positive, can-do attitude won’t go unnoticed.

5. Make relationships with your coworkers. The most valuable part of your internship will be the relationships you make. Take time to eat lunch with the other interns or grab coffee with a coworker.

6. Document your experience and accomplishments. Throughout your internship, expect to have a few touch-base meetings with your boss to talk about your progress. By documenting your accomplishments, it’ll be easier for you to show your manager the value you’ve added to the team.

7. Never turn down the opportunity to learn and grow. Most internship programs offer abundant learning opportunities. If your boss invites you to a luncheon or suggests an industry-related book for you to read, take advantage of these ways to learn new things.

8. Brainstorm creative ideas to pitch to your boss. Never hesitate to share your creative ideas with your boss. Especially if it can help you be more productive or offer a new solution for the department, speak up about your ideas. Who knows? You might be given more opportunities to take on bigger projects.

9. Become irreplaceable. The objective of most internships is to seal a job offer at the end. Show your manager that you’d be impossible to replace because of your excellent work ethic and passion for their organization.

10. Take your boss out for coffee. One-on-one time with your boss is so important. This is your opportunity to pick their brain and establish a genuine relationship. You can also gain some valuable career advice and learn about their journey to success.

11. Be dependable. Superstar interns are incredibly dependable. Be an employee your boss can count on to complete projects, take on new assignments and show up on time.

12. Find a mentor. Reach out to someone within the organization whom you admire and establish a relationship with them. Ask to schedule a meeting where you can chat about your position and your goals and learn more about your mentor’s experience. This relationship will help you grow as a young professional.

13. Ask for feedback. The key to growth and development is continuous feedback. Actively seek input from your manager about your performance to ensure you’re on track for success.

14. Love the hustle. Prove to yourself anything is possible during your internship. Don’t be afraid to go above and beyond, or take on a new project that is outside of your comfort zone. Go the extra mile by volunteering at work events or lending a hand to your coworkers. Your hustle will definitely make you stand out as a superstar intern.

15. End the internship with a handwritten thank-you note. One of the most memorable ways to conclude an internship is to give your boss a handwritten thank-you note. This is much more personal than an email or typed letter.

16. Stay in touch with your boss and coworkers. Just because your internship is over doesn’t mean the relationships come to a screeching halt. Stay in touch with your coworkers through email or LinkedIn, and even Facebook if you created a strong bond. These professionals will serve as valuable contacts (especially for letters of recommendation) for the rest of your career.

What do you hope to accomplish during your summer internship? Tell us in the comments below!

(Photo via Omar Havana/Getty)

After Reese Witherspoon announced a new Legally Blonde TV show was coming to Prime Video, fans have been on the edge of their seats to see who would play Elle Woods. And, thanks to Reese herself, we finally have an answer, just in time for Valentine's Day. And our new Elle, Lexi Minetree, is the Legally Blonde casting announcement of our dreams.

Keep reading to see Reese Witherspoon tell Lexi Minetree she's the new Elle Woods!

Who is playing Elle Woods in Elle?

After it was announced that the Legally Blonde TV show had narrowed it down to two finalists, Lexi Minetree and Madison Wolfe, Reese Witherspoon surprised us all by posting Lexi's official casting to Instagram. "Allow me to introduce you to the new Elle Woods!" Reese says in the caption. "After watching so many incredible auditions for the new Elle prequel series on @PrimeVideo, we finally found our Elle. And today, I got to break the news myself! Meet @leximinetree 💕🌟💅🏼"

And TBH, no one is as surprised as Lexi! In the video posted to Reese's Instagram, the Big Little Lies actress welcomes Lexi (who's dress in hot pink, FYI) into a hotel room before telling her the Prime Video team had to make a difficult choice. And since Lexi had worked so hard, Reese wanted to tell her in person...that she got the role! Lexi immediately bursts into tears, which is exactly what I'd do, then calls her mom to share the good news. And even her mom admits that these two ladies sound just alike.

"Isn't it crazy?" Reese says over the phone. "When I saw her tape, I was like, 'Are we the same person? This is so weird.'"

We don't know much specific plot info about the Legally Blonde prequel series, but Reese did share that it'll give us a deeper look into Elle's teenage years. “I truly couldn’t be more excited about this series!" she says in a statement to Variety. "Fans will get to know how Elle Woods navigated her world as a teenager with her distinct personality and ingenuity, in ways that only our beloved Elle could do. What could be better than that?! Legally Blonde is back!”

What else is Lexi Minetree in?

You can see Lexi Minetree in an episode of Law and Order: SVU, as well as The Paramedic Who Stalked Me and Hot Take: Murdaugh Murders.

Are you excited to see the new Legally Blonde TV show? Let us know your thoughts on Facebook!

Whether you're celebrating with your significant other for the first time or the tenth, you've probably already given some thought to your Valentine's Day dinner ideas. You'll be hungry by the time the sun sets, whether you've spent the whole day together, or you've just come back from the best date night ever. These recipes are perfect for ending the night on a delicious note or they can serve as your date night — cooking together is a super fun way to spend your time.

You can show your favorite valentine love with DIY Valentine's gifts, pink cocktails, fruit salad, or you can whip up a fancy-schmancy (and romantic) dinner. You can try the same recipe until it's just right, or experiment with a different pick every night of February. No matter what your favorite cuisine is, there's something for everyone.

Here are our favorite Valentine's Day dinner ideas for a date night meal to remember.

​What is a good Valentine's Day dinner?

A good Valentine's Day dinner is anything that is delicious and romantic, and that will change for every couple (or if you're alone!). V Day is always a good excuse to cook up a steak if you and your partner eat meat, but pasta or seafood are also great ideas. Or go for a surf and turf dinner that incorporates all of them. You can also add aphrodisiacs into the menu, but whatever you pick, don't forget dessert!

What is the Valentine's Day menu?

Your Valentine's Day menu is totally up to you and your partners' tastes. You can check out what's local to your area if you want to have a menu that reflects this time of year in your state. In terms of courses, you can opt for dinner and dessert or go all out with an appetizer, entrée, drinks, and dessert.

What to make for a romantic dinner at home?

Here are some popular Valentine's Day foods you can consider making:

  • Steak
  • Seafood
  • Chocolate
  • Pasta
  • Sushi
  • Wine
  • Fish
  • Crème brûlée
  • Strawberries

Sous Vide Steak

Prepare to swoon over this simple sous vide steak. Pair it with a baked potato and steamed veg. (via Brit + Co)

Coffee Rubbed Steak With Chili Lime Butter

Nothing says high class quite like a well-cooked steak. Take it from the pros and cook it medium-rare for the most intense flavor. We love the classic steak and baked potato combo, but feel free to shake things up with a different side. (via Brit + Co)

Spicy Pesto Pasta Alla Vodka

Image via Half Baked Harvest

You know we love vodka cocktails, so we are all about some vodka pasta! It's a 30-minute recipe topped with basil pesto and loads of your favorite cheese and you can add some red pepper flakes for some extra spice if you want. Swap the vodka for broth or water if you don't want to cook with alcohol. It'll taste just as good! (via Brit + Co)

Smoked Salmon Poke Bites

For charcuterie board fans or those of us who'd rather much on apps than have a full-blown dinner, these poke bites are cute, delicious, and have us dreaming of summer. Pickled ginger, avocado, and red onion take this recipe to a new level. Yum! (via Brit + Co)

Slow Cooker Creamy Tortellini Vegetable Soup

A soup that's delicious *and* features veggies, cheese, and pasta all in one? Count us in. Just put everything in your slow cooker and let it come together while you finish getting ready. (via Brit + Co)

Roasted Salmon Nicoise

This one-pot wonder is great for any day of the week. Salmon, potatoes, olives, and green beans (along with some other delicious ingredients) come together to create a flavorful combo that you'll daydream about until you can eat it again. (via Brit + Co)

Instant Pot Butternut Squash

A healthy, colorful dish like this butternut squash recipe makes for a great dinner recipe for vegetarians and carnivores alike. Plus it makes for an awesome winter comfort food. (via Brit + Co)

Air Fryer Salmon

Air fryer salmon is a great Valentine's Day dinner idea for anyone who works long hours and doesn't want to spend hours upon hours in the kitchen. Plus it's healthier than your other frying options! Not a fan of salmon? Try chicken or potatoes for other yummy options. (via Brit + Co)

Apple-Onion Pork Chops And Cheesy Crushed Potatoes

This recipe from Rachael Ray has some of the most interesting and captivating flavors we've tasted in a long time, and with meat, fruit, dairy, and starches, you're eating a lot of the food groups. (via Brit + Co)

Red Sauce Rigatoni Recipe

All you need for this delicious date night recipe is sausage, canned tomatoes, and pasta. And don't forget your favorite cheese, of course. This is a great option for having a fancy dinner at the dining table or curling up on the couch for a romantic movie. (via Brit + Co)

Charcuterie Board

Image via SocietySocial and QueenBrieCLT/Photography Demi Mabry

There's something so sophisticated and stylish about having a charcuterie board anytime of year, but especially on Valentine's Day. You can make it a red, pink, and white color scheme with fruit, dried flowers, and cheese, or try your hand at a breakfast-for-dinner board with heart-shaped pancakes, berries, and chocolate. (Via Brit + Co)

Instant Pot Indian Butter Chicken

Quick, easy, and delicious, what's not to love about this chicken recipe?! Tomato-y, buttery chicken goes great with flavorful naan and white rice. Sprinkle with cilantro before you serve. (via Brit + Co)

Zucchini Noodles

If you're avoiding regular pasta, try zucchini noodles instead of regular for a healthy take on your favorite dishes. Serve with pesto, olive oil and vinegar dressing, or Alfredo sauce to make a creamy pasta. (via Brit + Co)

Cauliflower And Burrata Valentine's Day Recipe

Photo via Half Baked Harvest

This dish might be geared for summer picnics, but it will also make a great option for your winter nights in. Change up the spices and seasonings depending on what your favorite flavors are, or make a couple different mixes and try them all! (via Brit + Co)

Baked Hot Chocolate Doughnuts

Photo via Half Baked Harvest

Okay so donuts don't technically count as an option for dinner but you can definitely make them for dessert! (Especially if you've already had your fill of lobster tails or pasta). You can even add some espresso to the chocolate glaze for a mocha taste. (via Brit + Co)

Cauliflower Rice Sushi

Not only does sushi make for a yummy Valentine's Day dinner for you and your S.O. but the actual construction of the sushi sounds just as great! Swap regular rice for some DIY cauliflower rice but feel free to keep your favorite fillings and sauces. (via Brit + Co)

Stuffed Avocado

Another great option for a smaller, finger food dinner, stuffed avocados make for a tasty and filling dish. You can also leave out the shrimp to make this an easy meat-free recipe. (via Brit + Co)

Crock-Pot Crispy Caramelized Pork Ramen Noodle Soup with Curry Roasted Acorn Squash

We're huge fans of ramen noodle meals and know this is one Valentine's Day dinner idea that can't be topped. Call us biased, but you'll find it hard not to be once you get a taste of this caramelized blend of pork, open face-egg, and jalapenos. (via Brit + Co)

Slow Cooked Lamb Shanks in Red Wine Sauce

Get your hands messy with this appetizing and flavorful recipe! With ingredients like tomato paste, garlic cloves, and red wine, your taste buds will be satiated. (via Brit + Co)

Creamy Cajun Mushroom Pasta

Looking for Valentine's Day dinner ideas that are healthy and won't put a dent in your budget? Try your hand at this creamy Cajun mushroom pasta! (via Brit + Co)

Puff Pastry Breakfast Egg Tarts

Eating breakfast for dinner seems to stir up our inner little girl, so we're sharing this delish recipe with you! (via Brit + Co)

Chicken Piccata

Chicken is always a pretty safe option when cooking dinner, but this recipe dresses it up into something extra delicious. (via Culinary Hill)

Duck Confit Salad

Make your Valentine something extra fancy with this confit salad. Not only is this Valentine's Day dinner elegant but it also features pomegranates and avocados, so we can't say no. (via A Spicy Perspective)

Strawberry & Cream Croissant French Toast

Photo via Tieghan Gerard of Half Baked Harvest

Whether you're making brunch or having brunch for dinner, this is a great French toast-croissant hybrid. Swap the drizzle of maple with a chocolate drizzle to make it extra Valentine-esque. Serve with white wine or champagne. (via Brit + Co)

Crispy Honey Glazed Chicken Thighs

This recipe will be appreciated by couples who are trying to eat healthier in the new year. (via Brit + Co)

Cuban Mojo Marinated Pork

With classic Cuban flavors, this mouthwatering pork recipe is juicy and moist. Pro tips: Spring for a high-quality meat source from your local butcher or farmers’ market, and marinate the pork overnight to make this top-notch recipe even tastier. (via The Food Charlatan)

Shrimp and Gnocchi With Garlic Parmesan Cream Sauce

If you’re both eating garlic, then you won’t have to worry about dreaded “garlic breath” after. Shrimp and gnocchi are already amazing on their own, but put them together for a powerhouse meal that everyone will want. You'll want to grab some red wine to go with this one. (via Damn Delicious)

Beef And Lamb Shwarma Wraps

If you prefer something a little more casual (or just love handheld food), try out these amazing wraps. Make your own tzatziki if you're feeling adventurous. (via Forks and Foliage)

Soul-Warming French Onion Pot Roast

Nothing says love like pot roast. This particular iteration boasts the flavors of onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, fresh apples, thyme, celery, and bay leaf. (via Little Spice Jar)

Strawberry Ravioli With Balsamic and Basil

These naturally pink ravioli are packed with decadent flavors and topped with a balsamic reduction for a sweet and savory combo. Plus considering it's Valentine's Day, we'll take all the pink food that we can get our hands on. (via A Beautiful Mess)

One-Pan Cheesy Spaghetti Pie Valentine's Day Dinner Idea

Permission granted to have your own Lady and the Tramp moment while feasting on this dish. For a healthier version, feel free to sub turkey or chicken for ground beef and whole wheat spaghetti for the refined version. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Slow-Cooker Cassoulet

Don’t fear the cassoulet. It’s not as tricky to make it as you might imagine. Toss it all into the slow cooker for restful meal prep. (via Leite’s Culinaria)

Spinach and Three Cheese Manicotti

Pasta dishes have a certain sensuousness to them, and this indulgent, cheesy manicotti dish cries out for a cozy and lovey-dovey night in. Feel free to use store-bought marinara sauce or make your own. Bring on all the bread and garlic butter. (via The Cooking Jar)

Skillet Chicken Pot Pie

Have a busy Valentine’s Day schedule? Get a head start with this slow-cooker recipe. About a half an hour before mealtime, pop some veggies in the oven to serve alongside the dish. (via Plays Well With Butter)

Creamy Masala Mussels

Mussels are delicate, fleshy, and delicious and lend a hand to any full-bodied sauce. The beer base will require all the bread to sop up every last drop of goodness. (via Drizzle and Dip)

Fettuccine Alfredo Valentine's Day Dinner Idea

Forget lightened-up, pre-made sauces; fettuccine Alfredo is meant to be rich and delightfully naughty. It features Parmesan and heavy cream, and we wouldn’t have it any other way. (via Two Peas & Their Pod)

Butter Candles

Add a little bit of ~mood lighting~ with these candles that are literally made out of butter. They make the perfect addition to any dinner and are like 2023's version of butter boards. (via Brit + Co)

Galentine's Day Sweet Treat Board

If you're celebrating Valentine's Day with your girlfriends, or even going stag, make this colorful and sweet dessert board. You might spoil your dinner but honestly, it's worth it. (via Amanda Wilens)

Paleo Pot Roast

This healthful, Whole30-approved pot roast doesn't skimp on yum factor even though it's made with completely clean ingredients. (via Noshtastic)

Creamy Coconut Lentil Curry

This curry recipe is *bursting* with healthy proteins and fats. Bonus: Your leftovers will be easy to reheat and use up throughout the week. (via The Endless Meal)

Creamy Vegan Tomato Sauce

This plant-based tomato sauce blends cashews, roasted tomatoes, and onions. It is so good, the non-vegans in your life won't mind eating it too. (via Fit Foodie Finds)

Raspberry Almond Crumb Cake

Let this moist raspberry almond crumb cake help set the tone for sexy activities after dinner. It's full of ooey-gooey goodness that'll leave you and your date's mouths watering. (via Cozy Cravings)

For more Valentine's Day dinner ideas follow us on Pinterest and check out our online cooking classes!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

This article has been updated from a previous post.

Additional reporting by Chloe Williams and Jasmine Williams.

Despite being called a "dishwasher," the magical machine sitting in your kitchen isn't just for plates, cups, or silverware. It's also a secret cleaning hack that can handle way more than you might think. Not only is tossing things in the dishwasher a major time-saver compared to handwashing, but it's even more efficient, using less water and energy.

So, the dishwasher is one appliance you shouldn't underestimate, with the ability to clean things like footwear, common household fixtures, and even toys. To get you started, here are 13 items you can surprisingly plop inside for a quick clean.

Scroll to see all the surprising items you actually CAN put in the dishwasher!

1. Waterproof Shoes

Nordstrom

You might have kids who love to explore in their Crocs or dance in muddy puddles while wearing their rain boots. Or maybe you ran through a trail through the woods that really left its mark on your Cloud 5 Waterproof Running Shoes. Plus, plastic flip-flops, a staple in summer footwear, have a knack for accumulating sand, dirt, and other grime during the warmer months.

These waterproof shoes can safely go on your dishwasher's top rack! Just be wary of using detergents that have bleach, as it could lead to material damage or discoloration.

2. Plastic Hairbrushes

Amazon

Hairbrushes don't only collect stray strands of hair. They can also accumulate dead skin, grease, and other grime.

If you realize your plastic brush or comb has seen better days, put it in your dishwasher's utensil container and let it go through a "normal" cycle. Just keep in mind that brushes or combs made from natural materials aren't safe for the dishwasher.

3. Children's Toys

Target

Kids have no problem using and basically abusing their toys. They get tossed on the floor, chewed on, and even taken outside in the dirt. To get rid of germs, plastic items such as building blocks, pretend play kitchen items, bath toys, and even pacifiers and teething rings can be cleaned in your dishwasher.

However, any toys that have small pieces should be placed in a mesh bag. That way, they don't inadvertently damage your appliance.

4. Baseball Caps

Urban Outfitters

Baseball caps are great for shading your face from the harsh summer sun, but they can quickly get dirtied from sweat. Thankfully, the dishwasher can help get them looking as good as new without ruining their shape.

All you have to do is loosely place your cap in the top rack and let it air dry afterward. Or, for those very concerned about their cap's shape, you can buy a cap frame.

5. Vacuum Attachments

Amazon

From sucking up dust bunnies under our furniture to tackling crumbs between couch cushions, our vacuums (and, specifically, their attachments) go through a lot.

Instead of handwashing these often-gross items, allow your dishwasher to do the work for you. Plenty of plastic vacuum attachments tend to be dishwasher-safe, but before you throw all of your accessories in for a bath, double-check your owner's manual.

6. Toothbrush Holders

Anthropologie

It's recommended that you replace your toothbrush every three to four months to maintain hygiene. But when was the last time you actually cleaned your toothbrush holder?

Moisture and toothpaste residue can accumulate inside or outside this item over time. Just like a cup, simply turn it upside down, place it on the top rack of your dishwasher, and let it run through a normal cycle.

7. Potatoes

Target

Have you ever been tasked with making mashed potatoes or french fries for a large group only to realize just how many spuds you'd have to wash? You may be shocked to learn that you could've been saving a lot of scrub time all these years.

Potatoes can easily be placed on the top rack and washed on a rinse cycle! Never include any detergent, though.

8. Appliance Knobs

No matter how tidy of a cook you are, the knobs on your appliances, like your stove, are bound to get quite dirty after a while. They're constantly touched, often with sticky or oily fingers, and frequently forgotten about during kitchen cleaning sessions.

Give your appliances a simple refresh by disconnecting their removable plastic or metal knobs and sticking them in your dishwasher's utensil container.

9. Refrigerator Shelves

Amazon

From spilled milk (literally) to crumbs and leaking leftover containers, refrigerator shelves can get sticky, grimy, and downright gross to handwash.

Luckily, you don't have to! They can be sanitized in the bottom rack of your dishwasher, along with your other dishware, for an effortless clean.

10. Gardening Tools

Amazon

Regardless of whether you're a container gardener or prefer growing plants in garden beds, your tools are exposed to dirt, bacteria, and, sometimes, pesticides.

Those with plastic or metal handles can get sanitized on your dishwasher's top rack. Tools with wooden handles, on the other hand, should be washed manually.

11. Microwave Turntable

Amazon

Similar to refrigerator shelves, microwaves take a beating. This appliance reheats everything from bubbling soups to greasy pizza slices, but you don't want your turntable to look like a graveyard of dinners' past.

Instead of going through the hassle of washing this large, awkward item in the sink, place it in your dishwasher alongside your other plates, bowls, and cups.

12. Shower Caddy

Target

Unless you have a built-in shelf in your shower, you probably have a metal shower caddy that hangs over your shower head or door to hold your shampoo, conditioner, and other bath products.

Over time, mold and soap scum will accumulate on your caddy, giving it a dull or dirty appearance. To help this shower accessory become sparkly again, run it through your dishwasher, and remember to dry it off afterward to prevent rusting.

13. Pet Toys & Bowls

Target

Last but certainly not least are plastic pet toys and bowls. The former is constantly chewed on, dragged around your floor, and sometimes even buried in the yard. Meanwhile, the latter is exposed to the bacteria in your furry friend's mouth, kibble residue, and slobber.

Rather than forcing yourself to hand wash these pet accessories, let your dishwasher handle it. Just check the bowl and toy labels to ensure they're machine-wash-safe and don't have any hollow areas where water can get trapped and grow mold.

Looking for more home and cleaning advice? Be sure to sign up for our newsletter so you never miss a thing!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.