What advice to they give to students?
Consider Your Options
"As soon as possible, start doing some reflective brainstorming to figure out what type of internship will work best for you. Think about your hobbies and interests, major, and preferred work style."
Consider Your Timeline
"Before you get your heart set on a particular summer internship, make sure the company is still hiring interns. While summer internships are a scant three months long, summer internship application season begins in fall of the previous year. It runs through late May, with employers receiving the heaviest volume of applications between late February and early April."
Get Things in Order
Polish Your Resume and Cover Letter
"To submit a successful application, you need a perfect resume and cover letter for each and every role. Once you’ve edited, and re-edited, both documents, you’ll want to tailor them both to the specific role to which you’re applying. Resumes and cover letters are not one-size-fits-all!" Visit the CCD to review your materials!
Connect with Your Network
"Everyone talks about the importance of networking, and everyone’s right. To prepare for a summer internship, and to increase your odds of getting an offer, you need to reach out to everyone you know… Some people you meet might have strong ties to companies that don’t have internship programs, but don’t let that deter you. If you see an opportunity, grab it: Suggest an internship. Do your research, put together a proposal, and pitch it to let your contact know what you could do if given the opportunity. This works especially well for unpaid internships at nonprofits."
Get Your References in Order
"Unfortunately, employers don’t just take your word for it when it comes to hiring. Once you’ve applied, passed a phone screen, and aced an interview or three, you’ll be asked for references: people who can attest to your skills, experience, and attitude, providing an outside perspective on your professional performance. Trust us: You don’t want to wait until a company asks for references to have everything lined up. By selecting, asking, and thanking your references before you apply to an internship, you’ll ensure you can respond to employers promptly and provide superlative recommendations."
Do your research
"But don’t even think of applying to an internship until you’ve thoroughly personalized your application. Otherwise, you’re wasting everyone’s time—at best. At worst, there will be other internship (or job!) opportunities at an organization, but they’ll never consider you after that initial app. Take the time to research the company, tailor your resume and cover letter to the job at hand, and ensure you’re putting your best self forward."
Apply, rinse, and repeat!
"It’s time to start applying! If you’ve followed our advice, you’ll move quickly through each application. Just remember to tailor each version of your resume and cover letter to the individual internship and double check everything for typos or mistakes. Once you’ve sent off an application, move on to the next one. Major companies can receive hundreds of applications for a single opening—so the more applications you submit, the better the odds of getting an interview. If you don’t hear back, don’t get discouraged. Just keep applying."
Do the Interview (and say thank you!)
"Getting an interview is a huge step, so you want to be well prepared and make a great impression." Schedule an appointment with the CCD to practice your interview strategies!
If You Get an Offer, Consider All the Possibilities
"Be sure to consider all aspects of the internship package. These include your summer internship budget, especially whether you can afford housing if you’re not living at home, as well as the timing of the internship and if you’ll receive academic credit. Be sure to ask your potential employer about the benefits you’ll receive, so that you have a full picture of what your summer internship experience will look like."
Make the Most out of Your Experience
"You’ll want to make a great first impression, be a proactive intern, network with your colleagues, and prepare for the future. Set goals for yourself both personally and professionally to ensure your summer internship is benefiting your future career. When the internship ends, be sure to stay connected, get some great references, and show your gratitude for the experience."
