Tips and Resources for Aspiring Interns

Timing is important to keep in mind depending on the size of the company. Larger companies with more competitive programs tend to have earlier application dates. For less-structured programs, or small companies and startups, internship opportunities are likely to come up throughout the spring semester and even during the first few weeks of summer break. Standard internship programs can have a duration of 10-15 weeks in the Fall and Spring and 10-12 weeks in the Summer semester.

Here are some common timelines to take into consideration when applying for internships:

• Fall internship application timeline

Recruiting period for competitive internships: March-August

Recruiting period for many employers: July-August

Internship duration: September-Early December

Average length and hours: 10-15 weeks or the duration of the Fall semester; 10-20 hours/wk part-time

• Spring internship application timeline

Recruiting period for competitive internships: August-November

Recruiting period for many employers: November-January

Internship duration: Mid-January-May

Average length and hours: 10-15 weeks or the duration of the Spring semester; 10-20 hours/wk part-time

• Summer internship application timeline

Recruiting period for competitive internships: September-December

Recruiting period for many employers: February-April

Internship duration: June-August

Average length and hours: 10-12 weeks; 20 hours for PT, 40 hours for FT

• Start Early: Many companies start recruiting for internships well in advance. Start your search early to have the best chance of securing an internship.
• Network: Use your school’s career services, alumni network, professional organizations, or LinkedIn to connect with individuals who can help you find internship opportunities.
• Tailor Your Application: Just like when applying for a job, customize your resume and cover letter for each internship application.
• Highlight Relevant Coursework and Projects: Since you may not have a lot of work experience, be sure to highlight relevant coursework and projects on your resume.
• Prepare for Interviews: If you’re selected for an interview, prepare by researching the company and practicing common interview questions.
• Follow Up: After applying, follow up with a thank you note and express your continued interest in the internship.

Remember, applying for jobs or internships can be a time-consuming process. Be patient and persistent, and don’t get discouraged if you don’t get a response right away. Each application is an opportunity to learn and improve for the next one.

• Highlight relevant coursework and projects: Since internships often focus on acquiring practical skills and experience, emphasize your relevant coursework and academic projects. Highlight projects that demonstrate your ability to apply classroom knowledge to real-world scenarios.
• Showcase relevant extracurricular activities: Include any extracurricular activities, club memberships, or volunteer work that demonstrate your skills, leadership abilities, teamwork, and commitment. This can help compensate for limited professional experience.
• Include internships, part-time jobs, or volunteer experiences: If you have previously completed internships, held part-time jobs, or engaged in volunteer work, include them in the experience section of your resume. Focus on the skills and experiences gained during these roles.
• Highlight transferable skills: Even if you don’t have direct internship experience, highlight transferable skills such as communication, problem-solving, teamwork, and adaptability. Provide examples of how you have developed and applied these skills in different contexts.
• Emphasize willingness to learn and grow: Internship seekers should convey their eagerness to learn, grow, and contribute to the organization. Highlight your enthusiasm for the industry and your willingness to take on new challenges and responsibilities.
• Showcase relevant technology and software skills: Many internships require proficiency in specific software or technology tools. Include a skills section that highlights your knowledge of relevant software, programming languages, or other technical skills.
• Include references or recommendations: If you have positive references or recommendations from professors, instructors, or previous supervisors, include them in a dedicated section or provide them upon request. These endorsements can enhance your credibility as an intern.

• Research the Company and Role: Understand what the company does, its culture, and what your role would be as an intern.
• Prepare for Behavioral Questions: As an intern, you might not have a lot of work experience. Interviewers may ask behavioral questions about how you’ve handled situations at school or in extracurricular activities.
• Highlight Relevant Coursework and Projects: If you’ve taken any relevant classes or completed any projects related to the internship, be ready to discuss them.
• Express Enthusiasm: Show that you’re excited to learn and contribute. Employers look for interns who are enthusiastic and motivated.
• Have Questions Ready: Prepare some questions to show your interest in the role and the company.
• Dress Professionally: Even though you’re a student, dress appropriately for an interview.
• Bring Your Academic Resume: Your academic resume should include any relevant coursework, projects, and extracurricular activities.
• Practice Interview Etiquette: Like job seekers, you should be on time, turn off your phone, listen carefully, and thank the interviewer at the end.

Remember, the key to a successful interview is preparation. The more you prepare, the more comfortable you’ll be during the actual interview.