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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 internship is an excellent way to learn the ins and outs of your industry, make connections with people in your field, and ultimately decide what your next career move should be.
In order 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 TweetFinding the Right Internship
Finding the right internship takes both patience and research skills. No matter what your chosen degree and career field, If you put in the time necessary you can likely find an opportunity that fits you perfectly.
- Figure out what you want out of your internship experience: connections, a deeper understanding of the field, opportunities to work on specific projects, etc.
- Start searching early (at least one semester prior to the semester for which you are applying).
- Look for opportunities on internship-aggregating websites. Internships.com is one such that specializes in internship opportunities.
- 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
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.
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 job search process, stand out in interviews, and succeed in the workplace. The book includes real-world examples, exercises, and advice from professionals to help new graduates succeed in their careers.
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 Internship Bible by Mark Oldman and Samer Hamadeh: This book provides a comprehensive guide to finding and securing internships, including advice on networking, resume writing, and interviewing. The authors provide tips on how to make the most of your internship and turn it into a successful career.
An updated handbook outlines the essential facts about more than 100,000 interning opportunities nationwide, from responsibilities to perks to application procedures, and includes humorous sidebars, cartoons, and interviews with former interns. Original. 10,000
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 cover letter, how to prepare for interviews, and how to make a good impression on your first day. The author also offers advice on how to leverage your internship experience to land your dream job.
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.
