WSU hosts career & internship fairs which are also good ways to find an internship.
And so begins the search for the perfect internship. If you’re anything like me, you’re overwhelmed, confused and a little scared to even begin. For many majors, internships aren’t required, and therefore are not talked about. As an English Writing major, I had a lot of questions like, “Am I even supposed to do an internship?” and “How the heck do I get one?” The process can be a little dumbfounding, but not to worry. Here are a few tips on how to get started and land an internship.
1. Talk to your professors
Talking to your professors is a great first step in your search, especially if you’re a little clueless about where to start like I was. Professors are the perfect resource for getting answers, advice and connections.
2. Explore the Internet
There are plenty of online databases for finding internships. The sheer number of websites can become crushing, but find a few of your favorites and stick with those. One of my favorite websites is internships.com, which lets you search for an internship by field, preferred company or preferred city. A simple Google search will open a door to a thousand different opportunities.
3. Network! Network! Network!
Ask the adults in your life for connections. If your parent or family friend happens to know the sister of the secretary’s assistant who works for the branch manager of Nike, then go ahead and send out an email. Even if you don’t receive a reply, it can’t hurt to try. You never know what random connection could land you a dream internship
4. Double-check your résumé…and triple-check
One thing that will surely trump your chances of nabbing that internship is a messy résumé. Employers want to see a clear, concise document that tells them the kind of worker you’d be. Bonus tip: the term “experience” is very broad. Did you volunteer for a blood drive? Participate in a mock stock market? Include these in your résumé if your job experience is lacking.
5. Be flexible
Traditionally, interns are hired to do a wide variety of jobs. While you’ll be gaining career experience through your internship, you’re also there to help the company or organization be successful. Employers want to know that you’re willing to do whatever the company asks of you.
6) Visit Winona State’s Career Services
At Career Services, students can find tons of help with job and internship searches. You can also find a list of WSU’s top employers, weekly job postings, and other internship resources. This would also be a great place to ask for help with your résumé. Ask about the Résumé Cart, which travels around campus and can check over your résumé as many times as you need.
7) Just APPLY!
How do you up your chances of landing an internship? APPLY! Apply for as many as you can, and make sure your application is submitted on time.
For me, the search for an internship feels a little like “the beginning of the rest of my life.” We’re all enjoying our time here at WSU, but the real world of adulthood is growing nearer, and it’s time to start chasing your goals!
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