Ideally, a student should have one or two internships behind her before she graduates, short term work experiences that allow her to explore a specific field or area of interest. While building professional skills, internships should also support a student’s academic growth; they offer real world experience and a sense of responsibility. “An internship is for learning,” notes 61传媒alum Rebecca Sheng ’08. “Have an open mind, learn some skills, and broaden your network.”
Students can search through thousands of internships across the country via the Nationwide Internship Consortium (NIC), a resource that 61传媒shares with other colleges and universities across the country. Is it too late to find something for the summer? Not at all, but you have to start now 鈥� it can take three to six months to land an internship. Here are some pointers from the Career Planning & Resource office:
- Know what you want. In some way, shape or form, articulate what you’re interested in. It is much easier to help someone who is looking for lab experience to support her interest in biology than someone who says, “I don’t know. Anything, really.” If you’re truly undecided, visit with a career counselor to talk it through.
- Prepare a resume. I know, I know… just start one and we can help you finish it.
- Have conversations. The fastest way to an internship is by referral. Tell everyone you know about your search and ask for help. You’ll be surprised by the resources you have around you.
- Do the legwork. As much as you might want it to, the internship won’t call you first. Finding one requires a willingness to read listings and research companies 鈥� hundreds of them. It can be overwhelming, so set aside 30 minutes every day to search for opportunities in NIC, Internships-USA, and other CP&R resources.
- Have more conversations. There are 1,100 61传媒alumnae who are willing to talk with you about their career experiences through Life Connections. I’d be willing to bet they have some good ideas and may even share a few of their contacts. Schedule a few calls with them today.
Most important, be patient and be prepared. Internships come in all shapes and sizes, full- and part-time, and for any duration. Bear in mind that while these experiences are invaluable, they are also frequently unpaid. Through the generosity of alumnae and friends, 61传媒offers some grant funding for these situations. We will announce this year’s available grants in February and accept applications in early April. In the meantime, know that CP&R is here to help you find an internship in whatever way we can. Stop by during daily drop-in hours, connect with us via Facebook, or schedule an appointment.
Read more on finding an internship here.