Here's how you can navigate common challenges interns face when problem-solving in a professional setting.

As someone who has been an intern as an human services and early childhood education intern in the past, as an intern in any industry or field of study you will face challenges and obstacles along the way, but how you respond to those challenges will determine what you were taught in your classes with your instructors/professors . I remember a time when I was working as an intern in the human service field I did my internship at an adult transitional home where I believe most of their tenants were chemical dependent, there was a woman who was older I would say about 40’s or maybe in her 50’s or so she told me she was a nurse and every time I turned she would complain to me about her being pain but I couldn’t just authorize medication to her

When presented with a problem, I would first try to locate what is causing the problem and try to resolve it before escalating it. The truth is, formal education doesn't always give you the tools you need to figure it out, so find documentation or resources that can give you some guidance and attempt to resolve the issue based on those.

Navigating common challenges interns face in problem-solving involves seeking guidance. Interns should regularly consult with their supervisors or mentors to clarify issues and gain insights. They can also leverage team meetings to ask questions and gather diverse perspectives. Encouraging a proactive approach to seeking feedback and advice can help interns overcome obstacles and enhance their problem-solving skills. Providing them with clear instructions and support ensures they can tackle challenges effectively.

Most internships will have you assigned a mentor who works in your team and has industry experience. They are your go-to for any issues you're running into, but don't expect them to give you an answer. If you don't know who to ask, reach out to your manager and have them guide you to someone you can ask your question to. Make sure you present all of the information with your question; what is the problem, why do you think it's happening, and what have you tried so far?

This is one of most important, when solving a problem make sure to come up with at least 3 solutions. Then seek guidance on the possibility of each and select most viable one. Remember, the more solutions you come up with, it means there might be better possibility to solve a problem. At times, you come with the best solution in your head, but maybe it is not the most viable one for the company. So, it is always good to have backup of even a backup.

Work with your mentor, or someone on your team, to come up with possible solutions and try them on your own. Expect failure. Document what you've learned from the outcomes of these solutions, why do you think it worked or didn't work, and refer to them in the future when you run into similar issues. It may take more than one time running into the issue to be able to figure it out all on your own, but the internship experience is about learning. The best way to learn is to practice, rehearse, and repeat. It's okay if you don't get it right.

Challenge: Execution can be challenging for interns, especially if they lack the confidence or practical skills to carry out their ideas effectively. Tip: Provide clear instructions and guidance during implementation. Offer feedback throughout the process to build their confidence and skills.

You will most likely run into this issue again in the future. Make sure you note what you've tried before so you can take similar steps and try to eliminate things you are certain won't work. Make sure to ask for feedback from your mentor or team. The one thing you have to remember is that you're interning to learn. Make sure you're taking every opportunity possible to ask questions, get guidance, and expand on your current skill set. You can do it!