Internship Tips
Searching for an Internship
Finding and securing an internship is an exciting and rewarding experience. However, it can be a bit challenging at times and require both resilience as well as patience. There are many resources dedicated in helping maximize your chances of acquiring your dream internship. Below are some useful resources to help you look for an internships and a few tips when applying.
Begin Your Search Early
When searching for an internship it is imperative you allow yourself enough time. It is never too early to begin your search. Many students begin searching for an internship two or three months ahead of the semester they will be doing their internship. This plan will give you enough time to prepare your resume and cover letter, initiate a search, apply, and receive an offer. Getting a head start can be the difference between an opportunity being offered to you or another student.
Draft an Effective Resume and Cover Letter
At this stage of your academic career, employers understand that an internship applicants may have limited or no work experience in their respective fields of study. Therefore it is essential you draft a professional cover letter and resume that showcase your talents, skills, accomplishments, extracurricular activities, and memberships in professional organizations.
When drafting your resume and cover letter make sure that you invest the time and effort to research each employer and tailor your resume for each opportunity. It is important to demonstrate an understanding of each employer's mission, product or service, and show how your experiences to date have aligned you with the organization and the position. For more information on resume and cover letter development, visit Career Services.
Search Internship or Job Websites
You can find internship and job websites on the internet. Some host opportunities across all sectors, while others are totally dedicated to specific industries. Job sites can be instrumental in producing more success in your search, but always ensure you check for current posting dates for each opportunity. Below are a few links to assist in your search.
Network
Many internship opportunities exist on-line, but there are also thousands of students researching and applying for the same opportunities. Success in finding an internship is not always about what you know as much as who you know. Nothing beats good old-fashioned networking. Leveraging your network of family, friends, school and work contacts to find an internship is one of the most effective ways to gain an edge over the competition and land an internship.
Networking also includes attending industry events in your area, participating in local special interests groups, clubs, and professional associations. Identify these groups and events, get involved and pass the word you are looking for an internship opportunity.
21st Century Job Skills
The term 21st Century Skills references a broad set of character habits, knowledge, skill, and work habits believed to be essential to success in today's job market. Below is a set of professional modules designed to help you hone in on a few of these critical 21st Century Skills. Learning and practicing these skills will increase your value to an employer. Employers are not only interested in technical skills; they are looking for candidates with the ability to communicate, collaborate and calculate answers to problems facing their organizations.