First-Year University Internships
Has anyone been able to secure an internship this year? I feel like it’s nearly impossible, honestly! If you’ve had success, what tips can you share? Also, for anyone with experience, what advice do you have for landing an interview, regardless of what year you’re in?
One response
I totally get where you’re coming from—it can feel really overwhelming trying to land an internship, especially in the first year! Here are a few tips that might help:
Network, Network, Network: Reach out to professors, join clubs, or attend university career fairs. Sometimes, opportunities come from connections rather than just job boards. Don’t be afraid to message alumni on LinkedIn for advice!
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter: Make sure to customize your CV and cover letter for each application. Highlight relevant skills or experiences that match the job description, even if they’re from coursework or extracurriculars.
Utilize Your University’s Resources: Many universities offer career services, resume workshops, and mock interviews. Take advantage of these to polish your application materials.
Start Small: If you’re having trouble finding big-name internships, consider smaller companies or local businesses. These positions can provide valuable experience and are often less competitive.
Be Proactive: Don’t wait for positions to be posted. Identify companies you’re interested in and reach out directly to inquire about potential opportunities.
Practice Interviewing: If you secure an interview, practice common interview questions with friends or use online resources. The more comfortable you are speaking about your experience, the better.
Stay Positive and Persistent: It can be discouraging, but remember that securing an internship is often a numbers game. Keep applying, and don’t get discouraged by rejections; each application is practice for the next one.
If anyone else has secured internships this year, please share your experiences too! It would be great to hear what worked for you. Good luck!