“Go find an internship.” If you’re a college student, you’ve probably heard this phrase before. “It’ll help you get experience and start networking.” Well, you might think that’s all true, but how do I find an internship that will give me the experience and connections I need? And how do I improve my chances of getting the internship?
First of all, an internship is a fantastic way to put your skills to use as you approach your final year of college. You get hands-on experience, can make valuable connections, and strengthen your resume before you hit the job market. As you prepare for this next step, consider exploring how to sell used college books with maximum profit to clear up space and earn some extra cash to help cover your internship expenses.
We’ll take it step by step: we’ll guide you through the process of applying for an internship, help you network for internships, and provide tips on how to ensure you’re applying for the right one.
Think About Your Career Goals First
Before you start your internship search, you need to know what you’re looking for. To determine this, take some time to reflect on your career goals. What industry do you want to work in? What specific roles are most appealing to you? Once you know what you want, you can narrow down your search and look for internships that align with your future career.
Tip: Consider your strengths and the skills you would like to develop further. Of course, it’s also important to consider what you’re studying right now. What kind of careers does your degree set you up for?
It’s also a good idea to consider the kind of company culture you would like to experience. Perhaps you’re interested in experiencing a fast-paced work environment, or maybe you’re more drawn to a traditional corporate setting.
Make Use of College Career Services
Most colleges have career service centres. These are specifically made to help students like you find internships. Oftentimes, the centres have connections with local businesses and organisations that offer internship programs.
Make use of these services! Don’t hesitate to visit and ask for some help. They can tell you how to approach your search, fine-tune your resume, and polish your cover letter.
Tip: If you’re looking for resources to help you along the way, you can find some free books here to support your internship journey and expand your skills.
Network with Professors, Peers, and Alumni
Your existing network is one of the most valuable tools for finding an internship. You might not think much about your relationships with your professors or other alumni, but these are the people who make up your network. Contact professors who may know of opportunities in your field, or contact other students or alumni already working in an industry that interests you. Many students land internships through word of mouth.
Tip: You can attend alumni networking events or join industry-specific student organisations. This way, you expand your circle and open doors to internships you might not find through online job boards.
Search Online Internship Portals
Yes, networking is great and can help you land a good internship, but don’t underestimate the power of the internet. You may already be aware of this, but numerous websites offer internship opportunities across various industries. Look through Indeed, LinkedIn, and Glassdoor, for example.
Tip: Set up job alerts for internships that match your criteria. This way, you’ll be notified when new opportunities are posted.
Perfect Your Resume and Cover Letter
Even for an internship, you need to tailor your resume and cover letter to each specific role. Some key resume tips for internships include highlighting your most relevant skills and experiences, and clearly describing how they make you the ideal candidate for the position. You might not have much professional experience yet, but don’t let that deter you. Focus on the coursework, volunteer work, and projects that have prepared you for the internship.
Tip: Don’t underestimate the power of a well-crafted resume and cover letter. They can make a huge difference, so don’t be afraid to put in the extra effort. It’s not just about what you have done; it’s about how you present it.
Paid vs Unpaid Internships – Choose Wisely!
Not all internships are created equal, but that doesn’t mean you should only consider paid internships. Of course, it’s great to earn some money while gaining experience, but unpaid internships can still provide valuable learning opportunities. If you do take an unpaid internship, ensure it offers sufficient value in terms of skills development, networking opportunities, and industry exposure. You want to make sure that it justifies your time and effort.
Tip: If an unpaid internship also offers college credit, then it may be worth considering. This is especially true if it fills a graduation requirement.
Attend Career Fairs and Networking Events
Career fairs are an excellent way to network for internships and meet potential employers in person. Often, colleges host these events where companies specifically seek out interns.
Tip: Prepare a brief introduction, bring copies of your resume, and be prepared to discuss what you’re looking for in an internship. More tips for finding an internship at such an event include asking thoughtful questions and showing genuine interest, which can leave a lasting impression on recruiters.
Finding the Right Internship for You
Finding the right internship is a big step in building your career. With a bit of planning and persistence, you, too, will find the right opportunity.
The most important advice we can give is to start early, stay organised, and don’t hesitate to tap into your network for support.
It might seem insignificant, but the internship you land today could be the stepping stone to your dream job tomorrow.
Good luck, and here’s to landing that perfect internship!
