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Last Updated on March 29, 2025
Whether you’ll be working in a paid or unpaid position, you should treat your internship much as you would any other job opportunity. An
To make the most of your opportunity to work as an intern, you should prepare yourself both physically and mentally for the experience.
Ready to crush your next internship? Dive into our Ultimate Preparation Guide and unlock the secret to making an unforgettable impression! #InternshipSuccess #CareerGoals.Click To TweetHow to Prepare
- Research the Company: Thoroughly investigate the company’s mission, values, and recent projects. Understanding their culture and goals will help you align your
skills and prepare relevant questions for your interview. - Update
Your Resume : Ensure your resume is polished and up-to-date, highlighting relevant experiences andskills . Tailor it specifically for theinternship to showcase your suitability for the role. - Practice Interview
Skills : Conduct mock interviews to improve your confidence and communication. Focus on common questions and formulate thoughtful responses to demonstrate your knowledge and enthusiasm. - Network with Current Employees: Connect with current or former employees on LinkedIn to gain insights into the company and role. Their experiences can provide valuable tips and a deeper understanding of the work environment.
- Prepare a Portfolio: If applicable, compile a portfolio of your work that showcases your abilities. Include projects that are relevant to the
internship to highlight your practicalskills and accomplishments. - Understand the Industry: Stay informed about the latest trends and developments in the industry. This knowledge will allow you to engage in meaningful conversations and demonstrate your genuine interest.
- Dress Appropriately: Choose professional attire that fits the company’s dress code. Dressing appropriately shows respect for the company and helps you feel confident during your interview and first days.
Discover the seminal book on turning your internship experience into a career-building launchpad for your future. Author Eric Woodard, who got his start as a star intern in the White House, has mentored hundreds of interns as they transition in their careers to something bigger and better.
Finding the Right Internship
Finding the right
- Figure out what you want from your internship experience: connections, a deeper understanding of the field, opportunities to work on specific projects, etc.
- Start your search early, at least one semester in advance, to increase your chances of securing a position.
- Look for opportunities on
internship -aggregating websites like WayUp.com and Glassdoor.com - Identify target companies and organizations and contact them about available opportunities.
- Reach out and network—people in your acquaintance may be aware of internships you had not previously considered.
Cover Letter
Make sure that
When it comes to finding a job, your cover letter can be just as important as your resume. It’s your chance to showcase your personality, highlight your skills and accomplishments, and explain why you’re the best candidate for the job.
Interview
One of the best things you can do to prepare for an internship interview is to practice, practice, and practice. It’s normal to feel a little nervous (this is often a good thing!), but you need to be prepared to put your best foot forward. Practicing can help you get a feel for the interview process and can help ensure that you are ready for common questions. It’s a good idea to compose your answers beforehand—you don’t want to give the feeling that you are reading off a script, but you do want to have a good idea about what you are going to say.
Our AI Job Interview Coach is designed to help you train and excel in any job interview from the comfort of your home.
Other Tips
While on the job as an intern, you need to do your best to impress your internship providers. Many volunteer internships can lead to full-time employment opportunities or great recommendations for future positions, but only if you are willing to work hard.
- Be enthusiastic and self-motivated
- Ask for assignments
- Assert yourself
- Network
- Show up on time
- Complete tasks quickly
Whether working for Fortune 500 companies or nonprofit organizations, internships are great opportunities to start your chosen career and gain experience while still in school. Prepare yourself now to be an excellent intern, and you will get a lot out of the position.
Additional Resources
1. Welcome to the Real World
Welcome to the Real World by Lauren Berger: is a practical guide for recent graduates entering the workforce. Berger, a career expert and founder of InternQueen.com, provides tips and insights on how to navigate the
The essential book every workplace novice needs—a smart, practical, and fun guide to help them navigate the minefield of personalities, learn to work with their boss, identify priorities, and ultimately kick butt at their first job.
2. All Work, No Pay
All Work, No Pay: Finding an Internship, Building Your Resume, Making Connections, and Gaining Job Experience by Lauren Berger: In this comprehensive guide, the author offers practical advice and guidance on how to secure internships, build a strong resume, and make meaningful connections in your field of interest. The book is filled with real-world examples and practical tips that will help you stand out in a competitive job market.
3. The Internship Bible
The
This book gives you a competitive advantage and tells you what employers expect including how to meet those expectations. Make Your Internship Count’s easy-to-read format offers prompts, exercises, worksheets, and “This Really Happened” stories to:
4. The Ultimate Guide to Internships
The Ultimate Guide to Internships by Eric Woodard: This book offers a step-by-step guide to finding and securing internships, including tips on how to create a winning resume and
Discover the seminal book on turning your internship experience into a career-building launchpad for your future. Author Eric Woodard, who got his start as a star intern in the White House, has mentored hundreds of interns as they transition in their careers to something bigger and better.
Joey Trebif is the pen name of Mark Fiebert, a former finance executive who hired and managed dozens of professionals during his 30-plus-year career. He now shares expert job search, resume, and career advice on CareerAlley.com.
