INTERNSHIPS: BUILDING BLOCKS FOR FUTURE CAREERS

Megan Grobler

@megan.gro_bler

 

An internship, according to the University of Maryland, Baltimore County  (UMBC) Career Centre, is “a professional learning experience that offers meaningful, practical work related to a student’s field of study or career interest.” This includes part-time or full-time minor or administrative work. 

Indeed Career Guide’s article, “9 Best Ways to Find An Internship (and why it’s important), written by the Indeed Editorial Team, explains that an internship is a great way of gaining valuable experience before entering the workforce. The article went on to say that your ideal opportunity will align with your career goals and interests and will allow you to develop the necessary skills to succeed in your chosen field.

Indeed’s article lists nine ways to ensure that you find an internship:

• Determine your career goals and interests

Before choosing an internship, Indeed advises you to think about the type of internship you’re after and pursue one that aligns with your career aspirations. This will help you gain practical experience in your chosen field.

• Define your requirements

Make a list of your requirements and choose an internship accordingly. You’ll also have to consider the program’s goals and expectations to determine whether you find the work interesting or if you see yourself growing in your future career.

• Start searching early

Internships can be competitive, and some industries have deadlines for applications, so start searching and applying as soon as possible. This will show that you are proactive and give you time to weigh your options.

• Reach out to specific companies

If you want to work for a specific company, do research to determine if they have internship options. If not, send an email to the department that you are interested in and attach your CV. This will show initiative and willingness to work.

• Search online

Search for internships on sites like Indeed or LinkedIn, to find internships filtered to your requirements.

• Use your school or local career services

Your school’s career service may be able to lead you in the direction of a suitable internship with their connections and expertise. 

• Attend career fairs

Local job and internship fairs are a great way to find suitable opportunities and network with potential employers. Prepare an elevator-pitch in case you find yourself talking to your future boss.

• Reach out to your network

Look at your professional and personal networks and review whether there are people working in your desired industry. Ask them if they would be willing to talk about your career goals. These may introduce potential referrals.

• Use social media

Follow companies’ social media presences to see whether they post about having job or internship openings within your field, along with instructions on how to apply.

Internships are great for introducing you to the career path you may be following for the rest of your life. follow these tips to ensure your spot and prepare to experience a world of opportunities.

A poster displaying the benefits of internships for prospective interns (Source: CareerAddict)

Edited by Kyle Bauermeister