Many of us put off finding internships until we’re already out of school and looking for a job, but many companies offer summer internships between school years. These opportunities could give your job-prospects after graduation a much needed boost, and make your résumé stand out from the rest. However, finding and acquiring one of these elusive internships can be tricky, so Her Campus Southern Miss has put together a few tips to help you find that ideal opportunity.
Be Realistic
Many internships are unpaid, so you have to carefully consider what you are able to manage. If money is going to be an issue then make sure you check to see if the internship is paid or unpaid. Some internships would involve living away from home, so you’ll have to factor in living costs. Look out for internships that provide accommodation or expenses, even if they don’t provide a salary. Or perhaps start saving a little each month so you have a bit more breathing room when it comes time to make it work. You also need to be realistic about what the company is asking of you: if they require a certain GPA which you know you can’t achieve then be mindful of that as they will be able to find out and it would be awful to get all the way through the application only to be let down by something you lied about.
Do Your Research
Lots of companies will have big career websites advertising internships and a lengthy online application process, particularly in fields such as banking, law firms and engineering. However, it’s always worth making your own inquiry. If there’s a company you love but they aren’t advertising anything, send a polite email asking if they would consider taking on anyone. It’s always worth a shot and you might end up with your dream internship! Also, it’s always useful to ask around, if you have family friends who are in the industry you’re interested in, why not ask them if they’ve heard anything or have any recommendation? Remember Southern Miss (and most any university) has a comprehensive career services office that would love to help you out.
Be Truthful
As well as being clear about your grades, you should also be truthful in all aspects of the application. Don’t apply to things you’re not interested in just because they would look good on a resume, and don’t feign interest in something you have never heard of. Even if you do end up with the internship, you probably won’t enjoy it and you will have wasted your time. If you have to fill in one of the online personality tests, don’t try and second guess the responses you think they’re looking for either. It won’t work.
Perseverance is Key
Don’t be disheartened if you keep getting rejected. Just keep trying! It can be tough to fill out application after application, but it will all be worth it if you get that one positive response!
Applying for internships can be a long and difficult process, but the payoff is most definitely worth it. You’ll have an amazing experience and gain some invaluable career skills in the process. The earlier you start thinking about it the easier it’ll be, so why not go find your perfect internship opportunity now?
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