Guide to Landing an Internship

By Chase Pattison on June 16, 2011

Regardless of what industry you plan on entering after graduation, expect competition. To give yourself an edge over the other recent graduates chasing those entry-level positions, you should intern for a company that you would either like to work for in the future or a company in the field you would like to enter after you graduate.

by Jenn Pedde
University of Southern California

Internship

Future employers will not only value the experience you gain during your internship, but will also appreciate your drive and initiative to get into the workforce prior to graduation. That being said, landing an internship can be difficult if you do not know what you are looking for or do not know the necessary steps to take to get your foot in the door. The following steps will guide you to landing the internship of your dreams.

Step 1: Know What Are You Looking For

The first step to landing an internship is deciding what you would like to get out of the internship. Some internships are only for the summer months, while others continue throughout the school year. If you are considering applying for an internship that continues throughout the academic year, evaluate your future course list. If you have a heavy course load in the coming months, it may not be wise to try to juggle an internship at the same time. Additionally, some internships are paid, while others offer only college credit, recommendations and experience as compensation. If the internship of your dreams requires you to travel to another location and it is unpaid, you will have to find a way to supplement your income in the meanwhile.

Most importantly, when considering what type of internship you want, you need to consider your major and your future goals. Think about what you would like to do after you graduate and try to find an internship that matches your aspirations. Of course, as an intern, your day-to-day tasks will probably not mirror that of what you would like to do after you graduate. However, assisting those who hold the positions that you would like to hold in the future can give you invaluable experience and behind-the-scenes insight into the industry of your choice.

Step 2: Execute Your Search

Now that you have decided what type of internship is best for you, it is time to begin your search. Many companies have existing relationships with universities and routinely advertise available internship positions through school outlets. If your school has a publication, look in the employment section for internship opportunities. Your academic advisor is also usually privy to inside internship information. Let your advisor know a few months in advance that you are interested in interning. He or she will have the necessary tools and connections to guide you through your search. If there is a company that you would like to intern with that is not connected to your university, contact the company’s human resource department and request information about their internship programs. Some smaller companies may not have established programs, but will still welcome an extra set of hands to help out. Write a cover letter explaining why you would like to intern with that particular company and how your skill set can help the company achieve their goals as well. Attach your resume and submit it to the human resources department.

Step 3: Interview Like a Pro

Internships can be just as competitive as the job market, so you may not get an opportunity to interview for every internship you apply for. To increase your chances of landing an interview, apply to as many internships as possible (that are relevant to your future goals). When you do land an interview, treat it as if it were for a job — because essentially it is. Arrive at least 15 minutes early, dress professionally and come prepared to tell the company not only why you would like to intern for them, but also what you can offer them, as opposed to any other intern.

Whether you are freshmen or a senior in college, following the aforementioned steps can help you land an internship and become a competitive candidate for future positions after graduation.


Jenn Pedde is the community manager for the MSW degree program at the University of Southern California. She spent 2.5 years teaching in South, Korea, and now also works with those pursuing their Masters of Education degree.


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