Preparing For Your Internship
- Begin your search for an internship several months in advance
of the time you would like to start the internship. Application
deadlines for many organizations are typically 3-6 months prior to
the start date. Beginning early also puts you ahead of the majority
of students who wait longer.
- Internship opportunities are available for the Fall, Winter,
Spring and Summer and occasionally may last longer than one
semester. Some organizations offer compensation competitive
with most part time jobs.
- Research your field of interest to learn which
companies/opportunities would be best for you to pursue. This
research helps you write more targeted cover letters and better
focus your resume toward your career goal. The University Career
Services can help you learn how to conduct this research, write an
effective resume and compose cover letters that get noticed.
- Practice your interviewing skills by attending a workshop,
reviewing interviewing tips, and participating in a
mock interview.
- After the internship, write a thank you note to your
supervisor. Ask for a letter of recommendation from one or more
people with whom you worked closely.
- Don't underestimate the importance of, or lose contact with,
the people you met during your internship, they can be of great
help to you during your job search.
Be sure to check the University Career Service's
Internship Checklist.