Internships are a great way to gain experience in an industry you may be interested in before committing to a career path. Many students acquire internships during their time in school to gain experience and discover what they want in a career. Internships also allow interns to grow personally and professionally and have an opportunity to network with coworkers. An internship can be an enriching experience but finding one that fits you is not always easy.
Where to Start your Search
Once you have decided you want an internship, consider what industries you are interested in exploring. If you are considering positions in more than one industry note it may be easier to focus on one industry at a time to avoid feeling overwhelmed. Narrowing the search will help you better track the positions for which you would like to apply .
Create an updated resume after choosing what industry you would like to explore. Have a resume that includes your most recent work experience, any new qualifications or other activities that demonstrate your strengths, ready to send to hiring managers. Resumes are the first thing recruiters look at when considering an application, so putting your best foot forward is crucial.
After you have picked an industry you are interested in and have updated your resume, it is time to start applying. Your university may have a job portal specifically for internships and post-graduation job opportunities. If you are not a student or your university does not provide you with resources, websites like LinkedIn and Indeed are alternative resources.
Keep Looking for the Right Fit
Websites specifically for job listings are straightforward for finding positions you want to consider. You may choose to apply on the job listings website, company website, or even reach out directly to an employer. Consider using more than one website to find listings and use different filters when searching for internships in the industry. For example, consider if you can work full-time or part-time and whether or not you need a paid position. If you are a student, do you need course credit? If so, does this position fit the requirements for the course? After applying the desired filters, read through job descriptions that interest you and apply to as many jobs as you can. The more applications you make, the better your chance of hearing back.
Lastly, do not get discouraged if you do not receive offers right away. It takes time to find an internship that fits you and your lifestyle. Remind yourself that finding an internship that guides you in the right path for success is worth the search.
This post is courtesy of MMC Summer 2022 Intern Kayla Travis