I feel like this post is unfairly easy for me to write. During my semester in Washington, DC part of the program was an internship. Students were not just given an internship though – they had to go through the whole application and interview process. In addition to our main seminar class, we had an “internship class” where we discussed interview techniques, what we wished we had known at the beginning of the semester, and how our internships were going.

Today, while preparing for an interview later in the week, I returned to my notes from that class. Believe it or not, they’re still helpful. I will share the highlights:

1. Do your homework

Before you go to the interview, research the company. A simple Google search will suffice. Read any and all recent news involving the company. Bringing up current news such as a merger or new CEO will show that you are passionate about the industry and are willing to go beyond what may be asked of you. It also shows that you care about the company and are not just interviewing to get any old internship – you want this one.

2. Don’t be afraid to ask

If during this research process you come upon something that confuses you or that you don’t understand, do not hesitate to ask your interviewer. Perhaps a major deal was just made with another company or there is a debate within the greater global industry. Ask what the company feels about these changes and what it might mean for its future. You might also ask about the specifics of the deal or what side the company takes in the debate. Again, these questions show your interest and that you are eager to learn.

3. Find out the basics

There are a couple of basic questions you should almost always ask at an interview: How many interns are you looking to hire? What would a typical workday be like for me? Are there any perks? (Stipends, travel compensation, in-office cafeteria, etc.) When will you make your decision? If you ask nothing else, ask these four questions. This will demonstrate that you are invested in the internship and are serious about your search.

4. Follow up

After you end the interview (with a firm handshake, if applicable, and an “I look forward to hearing from you soon”) send a thank-you card or e-mail. This may seem obvious or it may seem pointless, but it will definitely set you apart from the rest of the applicants who walk out the door and are never heard from again. The interviewer is more likely to remember your name. Also, if you shared a funny story or discovered something random you had in common with the interviewer, mention that somehow. For example, I spoke with a man who worked for a major marketing company and I showed him that I always carry one of his products in my purse, just in case. When I e-mailed him to thank him (one day later), I referred to the product again.

Again, these tips may seem overly obvious, but it is important to keep them in mind during the interview process. If you are not convinced, readers, then know that these very tips helped at least 33 students in Washington, DC find great internships last September.