It’s important to use a combination of approaches in your search to find a position that’s valuable to you and to not miss out on great opportunities to explore areas of interest. It’s not enough to simply apply online; in fact, the way most people search for positions online is the exact opposite of how most employers prefer to recruit. Internship and job boards are a good resource, but connections are what will really help you tap into the “hidden job market” and land the 80% of jobs that are not posted.
There are many effective ways to find an internship―there is no one magic strategy.
When developing your internship search plan, consider some of the following questions: What do I want to learn? What skills do I want to develop? What industries or job functions would I like to explore? What subject areas would I like to learn more about? What types of professionals would I like to shadow or have as a mentor? Where do I want to live? Do I have friends or family in other cities where I could stay if I want to broaden my geographical search? Could I complete an international internship? What can I afford (paid or unpaid internship)? Answering these questions will help guide your search towards meaningful, professional experiences that match your skills, interests and values.
It may take several months to find the right internship for you. Many internship programs have deadlines as early as fall for the following summer. It's never too soon to start looking! Some positions might require specific coursework or year in school. Don't let that discourage you. Take note of those requirements and make yourself more competitive by participating in student organizations, community service or on-campus employment, and apply next year!
Remember, internships are designed to be temporary, typically an 8–12 week “test run” where interns get to explore one organization to see if it aligns with your values and interests. If you thrive in your internship? Great! If you do not enjoy the position or organization–better to know now and explore other opportunities in the future. Using experience as a tool for exploration can help you refine, confirm or redirect your strengths, values, interests and personality fit.
You will develop transferable skills regardless of the specific tasks and projects of your internship. Think about an internship as one exploratory step in your career journey, and not a lifelong commitment to this organization. A curiosity-driven mindset will take you far in your internship, regardless of what industry or discipline you are in.
Your position does not technically have to have “intern” in the title to be a quality learning experience related to your field of study. Many part-time jobs and/or volunteer positions will help you gain experience and develop relevant skills and competencies.
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