Once you have formulated a list of internship interests, you should start researching and applying for available opportunities using the resources available to the right, and further outlined below.
Locating an internship
Locating an internship is the responsibility of the student. Handshake and the English Linked-In site are the best place to start. If you have specific interests or contacts, it is sometimes possible to create your own internship by proposing a good idea to a prospective supervisor, or by talking to an existing employer about turning your job into an internship.
Preparing an application
Write a resume, then show it to everyone you know (especially people with jobs to which you aspire), get feedback, and rewrite it. It is essential that you make use of the Career Center’s resume writing workshops, resume reviews, resume appointments, and ResumePREP.
If your internship opportunity requires a cover letter, read through the guidelines and samples on The Career Center's website, write a draft, show it to everyone you know (especially people with jobs to which you aspire), get feedback, and rewrite it. Then schedule an appointment with The Career Center to review and provide feedback on your cover letter (and writing sample/portfolio, if required).
Before your submit your application materials, make sure you proofread everything very carefully. Any mistakes will result in your immediate disqualification.
The interview
Before your interview, you will want to read thoroughly The Career Center’s tips and resources for interviews, and set up a practice interview or Interview Stream.
On the day of the interview, you want to arrive early and be prepared to stay late. It’s not enough to know the time and location of your interview. You also need to know how long it takes you to get there, where to park your car, and how long the commute time is from your car to the interview location. It helps to drive to the site prior to the interview. Bring extra copies of your resume and reference page, the job description, prepared questions, pen and paper, and writing sample/portfolio (if required). Make sure you’ve practiced talking about your interests and your expertise, done your homework about the company and your specific interviewers, and dressed appropriately.
At the interview, discuss the nature of the internship, ask questions about the tasks you will be expected to do, and express an interest in getting involved in specific activities that will expand your knowledge and skills. Be sure that the internship is substantive enough to provide you with worthwhile experience.
Follow-up
Whether or not the interview leads to a placement, follow up with a thank you note.
