Advice for incoming CONMED Interns

Starting a new summer internship comes with a lot of excitement, nerves, and unknowns. You may be in a new city for the first time, away from loved ones, or even living with another intern you only ever have interacted with through GroupMe and texts. On top of all the emotions that comes with starting a new role, you will be exposed to so many new people all offering their words of wisdom and advice. The nerves, unknowns, and excitement are all emotions that everyone has felt starting their internship. The best way to manage these emotions is to simply embrace them.

Here are my top 3 pieces of advice for incoming CONMED Interns:

1. Network

CONMED is unique in the fact that everyone, regardless of department, is invested in helping interns and allowing them the opportunity to gain valuable insights into different business sectors. It does not matter what tittle one holds; I urge you to reach out and always be curious about other’s current role and the work that comes along with it. You will not be talked to as an “intern” and will have the opportunity to gain authentic, valuable insights into the industry. Always be curious and want to learn more!

2. Take advantage of your mentor time

One of my favorite parts about my CONMED internship was my 1 on 1 time with my mentor where I would set the agenda and guide the conversation. This was my time to ask questions about anything at all. One reoccurring segment on my agenda was “mentor talk,” where I would ask deep questions that had to do more with career guidance, instead of just med device. Some of my favorite topics included negotiating compensation, benefits, work-life balance, and interviewing/resume advice. This was also a great opportunity to ask questions about the industry, get feedback on projects, and give updates on anything necessary.

3. Be curious about what others are working on

Staying curious and asking questions about others work is a great way to develop a deeper understanding of the industry and CONMED. Understanding other projects helps to paint the bigger picture of who CONMED is and what they are working towards. I encourage you to not only be curious about what full-time employees are working on but also others within your intern class. This will allow you to ask follow-up questions and help fellow interns develop ideas on a deeper level. This may even result in a unique collaboration within a project that was not intended but beneficial. The sharing of projects, thoughts, and ideas is what keeps the ball rolling and will allow for a better intern experience.

Wishing you all the best,

Bryce Fisher

2024 Advanced Surgical Marketing Intern