Getting your First Internship

Finding an academic internship in college can be a worthwhile experience that can not only help your college career, but it can help you get a job in your chosen field once you graduate. If you are currently looking for an academic internship, here are some helpful tips to remember when looking.

Meet with your college counselor and complete the appropriate forms needed for an academic internship. Your counselor will probably have a list of companies that students can apply to for academic internships. Do not limit your options to only those listed.

Search the Internet for possible internship openings that you would be interested in. Ask your counselor, parents and professors for any recommendations. Look outside of your college area for summer internships.

Set up interviews with prospective internship employers when they are visiting your campus.

Research the company and write a resume before interviewing. Use this face-to-face meeting to get a better sense of the company and job duties, and show off your qualifications.

Work with a counselor or faculty sponsor to evaluate what academic components are needed in order to receive college credit for your internship. You may need to complete a final paper or mid-term evaluation to receive college credit.

Attend any pre-internship meetings that your university or employer recommends. If you are unable to attend, make sure they know why.