Now that you’ve completed your college program and are eligible to receive your associate’s degree, it’s time to start thinking about what you may do next. For many, it’s the first real taste of the real world. Finding a summer internship or entry-level position can be a daunting task, even more so for recent graduates who don’t have the experience to draw from.
Internships have always fascinated me. I was inspired to intern while in college, and years later, I continue to seek out them. In fact, I’m starting an internship search myself! Why? Because I believe they are the best way to get a great foot in the door. It is an experience that will allow you to build your network, build your professional skills, and most importantly, build your confidence and self-assurance.
Here Are Some Ways to Find the Right Internship
Know Your Field
Internships are a great opportunity for students in all academic areas and can be tailored to ensure that students gain workplace experience. Students can find summer internships in a variety of fields, including education, public health, business, and law.
Research Internships
Many students take advantage of the wide variety of internship opportunities to explore different career options while in college. Finding an internship and securing an interview can be difficult, but some planning and research can guide you in finding the most suitable internship that matches your interests and needs.
Create a Resume
Whether you’re hoping to pursue an internship to obtain job experience or to brush up on your skills before graduation, creating a resume is essential. Creating a resume allows you to highlight your skills, experience, and education in the field to potential employers. If you are unsure of how to write one, you can always use the services of ARC Resumes to help you with that so your resume stands out when applying for an internship.
Find a Job
Good job-hunting tips are especially important when transitioning into a new career field. Make sure you understand which skills, interests, and personality fit best with your potential employer. While internships are an excellent way to get exposure to different industries, you should never feel obligated to accept the first one that’s offered.
Network
Internships can provide you with valuable work experience, which can help you stand out to future employers. Keep an open mind, and be sure to look up internships in your field, even if they aren’t listed at school or career services. When you apply for an internship, be sure to send a cover letter, resume, and an introductory email. If you are not confident about how to write or what format to follow, then you can check out templates online for resumes, CVs, and cover letters for reference. You could also take a look at this cover letter builder from Cultivated Culture to get started with some ideas and understanding to create cover letters that are professional, minimalist yet visually appealing.
A job-hunting challenge most college students are facing right now is how to find the right internship. Finding one is a competitive endeavor. Many college students are frustrated and discouraged by the lack of internships available. However, not all of them are created equal. The internship you land can determine what kind of job you get, your earning power, and even what college you choose to attend.
Figuring out how to find the right internship can be a daunting task. To start, check your school’s career center. This will help you narrow your search and focus on internships that align with your major. Once you have a list of potential companies, look at their internship sites and review their descriptions and application requirements.
It’s one thing to get a job but another to get a job you want. Because an internship is a big commitment, it’s important to get it right. The one you choose will help determine how long it takes you to get your degree, and it will also determine what kind of career you get. The career you get could greatly affect the rest of your life.