Designed as a five-month full-time programme, the internship offers hands-on exposure, cross-functional collaboration, and the chance to work on real-world projects. But what does it actually take to secure a spot and, more importantly, grow within the organisation?

To gain deeper insight, I spoke with Ashraful Alam, who successfully transitioned from an intern to a Territory Officer at Nagad.

Recruitment process
According to Ashraful Alam, the selection process is structured and competitive, consisting of four key stages: CV shortlisting, an online assessment, a physical interview, and final selection.

The online assessment typically evaluates mathematics, analytical ability, English, Excel proficiency, and business communication skills. This multi-step process ensures that candidates are assessed not only on academic knowledge but also on practical thinking and communication ability.

Cracking the internship
Preparation plays a crucial role in standing out. Ashraful emphasises a strategic approach to succeeding in the process. He advises candidates to use a laptop or desktop with a stable internet connection during the online assessment, as mobile devices may not provide the best experience or accuracy.

He also stresses the importance of strengthening core fundamentals in quantitative mathematics, logical reasoning, and English comprehension. Alongside this, candidates should build strong Excel skills, particularly in functions such as VLOOKUP, HLOOKUP, XLOOKUP, Index-Match, and conditional formatting.

Time management during tests is equally important, and candidates are encouraged to remain calm under pressure in order to perform effectively. For the interview stage, Ashraful recommends maintaining a formal appearance, communicating confidently, and clearly highlighting both academic achievements and extracurricular involvement.

A journey of growth
Reflecting on his journey, Ashraful describes his internship as both exciting and transformative. While interns may not always be assigned core confidential tasks, he believes the real value lies in how individuals approach their responsibilities and make the most of available opportunities.

He highlights several key lessons that supported his growth. First, taking initiative is essential, as approaching tasks creatively and exploring different methods can help interns stand out. Second, active engagement in discussions and confidently sharing ideas contributes significantly to learning and visibility within the organisation.

He also stresses the importance of building professional connections beyond assigned teams, as collaboration helps interns gain broader perspectives. Finding mentors is another crucial factor, as strong professional relationships can open doors to future opportunities and guidance. Finally, effective communication is vital at every stage of professional development, particularly in a corporate environment.

His proactive mindset, willingness to learn, and ability to demonstrate potential ultimately enabled his transition into a full-time role.

The N-Risers Internship is more than just a temporary position; it serves as a platform to explore the dynamics of a fast-growing digital financial institution. With a structured learning environment, real project exposure, and mentorship opportunities, it equips interns with both technical expertise and professional skills.

For aspiring candidates, the message is clear: while performance matters, attitude and initiative matter even more.

As competition in the job market intensifies, programmes like the N-Risers Internship at Nagad offer a valuable head start. With the right preparation, mindset, and consistency, this opportunity can become a stepping stone towards a long-term career, just as it did for Ashraful Alam.

This year’s intake has already began and the last date of registration is 2 May 2026