It’s that time of year when it feels like everyone at Bucknell is talking about their summer plans – internships in the Big Apple and Boston to research fellowships around the world. It can be both overwhelming and daunting to some, especially if you haven’t figured out your plans yet. If you don’t have a summer job yet, have a little faith in the process and hang in there. Here are some pro tips for nailing your dream internship or job this summer:
1. Use the Bucknell Alumni App
Probably the single-handed most important tool that Bucknell provides students with is its strong network of alumni. It’s pretty simple – Bucknellians want to help other Bucknellians get jobs. If you haven’t checked out the Bucknell Alumni app, make sure to download it and start using it. You can find alumni by filtering the job industry you are interested in or a specific company you are interested in working in. Most alumni have provided their phone numbers and email addresses so it’s fairly easy to get in touch with them and send them a quick email asking to meet in person or chat on the phone
2. Informationals
Another extremely important part of the process of finding a job or internship is to utilize informationals. Part of the reason you might not have found an internship or job is because you yet to narrowly define your interests and determine what you want to do. Scheduling informationals with alumni, family members, friends, and individuals from from career fairs and beyond is an excellent way to learn more about a business or job role that you might be unfamiliar with.
3. The Bucknell Bridge
Don’t wait for the perfect opportunity to literally come knocking on your door – because it won’t. Being proactive by constantly checking the Bucknell Bridge and other career employment search-engines is the best way to check for job listings. Many of the job listings are also easy to apply for, as you can submit your resume directly through the job listing without having to create a profile and fill out logistical information.
4. Cover Letters
Writing a cover letter shows employers and recruiters how interested you are in the job role and also provides more personal details about your job experience. While they can be a pain to write, cover letters demonstrate your commitment to a job role and the preparation you did for it.