We are busy people. Our time is the glittering rubies and diamonds that sparkle in the treasure chest of our lives. We only have so much of it and, being the successful worker bees we are, it needs to be guarded against greedy villains, especially in the workplace. From Starbucks runs to playing pack-mule from magazine to magazine, not all internships are worth your while. Here’s how you know you’re time is being not only spend well, but respected:

Two types

There are two types of internships: one where you sit and twiddle your thumbs all day until the clock strikes six, and one where your skills are stretched and abilities grow. It’s obvious if your internship is the first kind because you do literally nothing all day. Self explanatory. If you have the second kind, you have real responsibilities that make you an essential cog in the company. You can feel the difference of gratification and time well spent.

It’s not selfish; it’s smart

Remember – an internship is a learning experience that’s supposed to benefit both parties. Learning new skills such as Photoshop, Excel, or Fashion GPS is proof that you are receiving a supplemental education. Looking to gain new skills isn’t selfish, it’s smart.

The people make the place

Like a teacher can make the class, the people can make the place. Working for a company filled to the with employees eager to impart their wisdom and knowledge is a gift from the internship gods. It may be difficult to find, but it exists.

You have a name

Being an intern doesn’t mean you’re not a person. Make sure employees respect that. You have a name. You are an amazing human being. It’s unfortunate, but interns are commonly mistreated and disrespected because they are temporary and at the low end of the totem pole. It’s inexcusable to work for a company culture that disrespects their interns, and that is a waving red flag that an internship isn’t worth your time.

Just like your middle school crush filled your tummy with fluttering butterflies and brought a perpetual shade of pink to your chubby cheeks, a worthwhile internship should make you jollier than a giant. There is no better feeling than waking up in the morning eager and excited to push open the doors of your office with a brimming grin, racing to your chair to get started on your daily duties. That is an internship worth your time.