An important step for college students preparing to enter the job market is to pursue an internship that allows them to apply classroom knowledge in a real-world setting. Although obtaining an internship can give students a leg up in the hiring process, it is not easy. Each year, many students compete for limited internship positions. Knowing and applying some basic steps when pursuing an internship can increase the chances of being hired for a position.

Importance of Internships

According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers, an internship is a form of experiential learning that integrates knowledge and theory learned in the classroom with practical application and skills development in a professional workplace setting. It is not to be viewed simply as something used to enhance a resume. Internships provide valuable opportunities for students as well as employers. Employers use internships as a tool for recruiting entry-level college graduates, while college students use internships for any or all of the following:

• Networking opportunities to build professional relationships.
• Improving or building technical and soft skills.
• Getting real-world, hands-on practice or experience makes the transition into the professional world easier.
• Increasing the understanding of academic concepts.
• Increasing chances of securing employment.
• Showing employers your credibility or job readiness.
• Obtaining college credit.
• Exploring future career paths.
• Earning an income, if offered.

Landing Internships

An internship can play an important role in higher education and career development. An internship can enhance academic performance, build skills, improve employability, and help support career decision-making. Consider the following tips before applying for internships.

Social Media

• Examine and clean up your social media presence.
• Make sure online profiles are professional because employers do look up candidates.

Conduct Research

• Research the organization or agency to learn more about it and its environment.
• Look for past intern reports about their experiences with the organization.
• Do not wait until the last minute. Begin researching opportunities early, so you have time to prepare strong applications.
• Choose internships that align with your major, interests, or long-term career plans.
• Examine the skills and experience the internship offers.

Use Campus Resources

• Become aware of and use your university resources.
• Use career centers to help identify internships, develop and refine your resume, and improve your interviewing skills.
• Prepare to answer common interview questions and behavioral & situational interview questions used in the STAR method. This interview method includes the following:
  • Situation or problem you faced.
  • Task you were involved in.
  • Action you took to complete the task.
  • Result or positive outcome from your actions.

Other Tips

• Network with professionals. These can include your professors, alumni, professionals in the field, and people you meet at career fairs.
• Do not overcommit. The internship should not negatively affect your academic performance. It should fit your class schedule and workload.
• Do not give up. You may not receive an offer from the first application, but continue submitting and improving your materials.
• Display an attitude of gratitude. Send a thank-you note or email after each interview to show your appreciation and reiterate your interest in the position.

Conclusion

Internships help bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world experience. Internships can help students build technical and soft skills, improve networking opportunities, and clarify career goals. Various factors should be considered when applying for internships, such as determining interests and career goals, whether there are opportunities for personal and professional growth, what the culture of the company is, and what the experience has to offer. By thoughtfully approaching the application process, students can increase their chances of success while getting started on building a strong foundation for their future career.