With spring semester almost complete, it is time to start thinking about your summer plans. Internships have become a vital part of our college career. The job search for recent graduates has become more and more competitive each year. Take the time this summer to network and gain experience for your future career. Although the internship process may seem difficult, I promise it is easier than you think. I am here to provide you with advice for all the aspects of a summer internship. Everything from finding your dream internship, to the application process, and finally making the most out of your experience. Anyone is capable of obtaining an internship, so now is the time to start the search!
- Finding an internship
Websites
Take advantage of the numerous websites online that post internship positions on a daily basis. No matter what your career path is, there is sure to be an internship for almost every major. The first website I would suggest, is Intern Queen (www.internqueen.com). Lauren Berger, CEO of Intern Queen Inc, a UCF graduate, works with over 500 companies located all over the U.S. to bring students the latest internships offered. She also provides an online blog featuring career advice and tips from her Campus Ambassadors. If you are looking for internships in journalism, writing, blogging, or magazines, Ed2010 is the place to look (www.Ed2010.com). For the fashion obsessed girls out there like myself, check Free Fashion Internships (www.freefashionternships.com). This website provides internships for every aspect of the industry; public relations, merchandising, sales, social media, and designing.
Internet
If you are still struggling to find an internship that fits you, simply search the web for companies that pertain to your major. Once you find one that catches your interest, call the company to ask if they are looking for summer interns and who to contact for more information. Do not be afraid to call, this proves that you are being proactive in finding an internship and companies love to see persistency.
Social Media
What should you do if you find your dream internship and there are no contacts or applications? Resort to social media. I personally believe Twitter is the best thing that could have happened to our generation. If you don’t have one already, I highly suggest signing up. Twitter has become the first place companies post jobs and internship opportunities. It is a great place to learn about a company before deciding if that is where you want to spend the summer. I personally can relate to this when I began my internship search last week. I was looking to apply to Bergdorf Goodman, but there was no contact on the website. Instead, I tweeted to Bergdorf Goodman (@Bergdorfs) asking, “Who is the best person to contact for a summer internship at the store?” Within seconds, they replied with a name and email contact. It can’t get much easier than that!