Overview: The Reality of Interning - Parts 1 to 3

FashionUnited recently teamed up with Hannah Rafter, the woman behind theIntern247.com to learn more about how young graduates and emerging designers can manage their exceptations and become a great intern. On the flipside, Rafter also shared her top tips how fashion insiders can become a great boss to an intern and share their knowledge with the next generation. Scroll down for a recap of "The Reality of Interning."

The Reality of Interning: Managing Expectations - Part 1

For so many students and graduates, securing an internship is regarded as essential in order to gain that all important experience needed to land a job in the competitive fashion industry. But as most of us know, getting your dream internship is just as competitive as getting a job and often your dream doesn’t match the reality of the role. In the first part of the series Rafter shares her inside tips on how to you land the internship of your dream - and how to manage your expectations when your internship doesn't necessarily live up to your dream.

Read more: FashionUnited / Hannah Rafter

The Reality of Interning: How to be a Great Intern - Part 2

Ok, so you’ve got the job…congratulations! It's now time to figure out how to be great at it. In the second part of this three part series, Rafter shares advice on how to become a great at your internship or position as you have landed a huge opportunity to develop yourself as a professional. Learning how to deliver quality work, while showing a great attitude, will help you build your reputation and career at the same time. After completing 7 internships and professionally overseeing interns, Rafter offers her top 13 tips to make any internship experience worthwhile and enjoyable.

Read more: FashionUnited / Hannah Rafter

The Reality of Interning: How to be a Great Boss - Part 3

One of the most neglected and complex areas of fashion internships is the effective support and management of interns. All Rafter's discussions with companies who hire interns believe interns are a valuable part of the company and in return offer the individual valuable experience of the world of work. In the final part of the "Reality of Interning" series, Rafter focuses on how fashion companies can ensure they offer interns a great experience and get a strong team-player in return.

Read more: FashionUnited / Hannah Rafter