As students progress through their academic careers, getting real work experience is key to obtaining a good job after graduating. Internships help prepare students for the workforce as they learn how to navigate and achieve success within the working world. Internships also provide opportunities that can give students a background in their field and lead them to an ideal job.
During an internship, students can learn about work life more than in a classroom setting. Internships provide hands-on learning, rather than learning from a textbook. Internships can also help students become more familiar with what they can do with their major.
Students who are looking for an internship can find resources on campus and online.
SEARCHING FOR THE INTERNSHIP
Students at Stevenson can access online resources through Career Services and through their major by talking with their professors. There are other websites such as Indeed.com and Baltimorecollegetownnetwork.com that can help by clarifying what an applicant needs for each internship, including a resume and cover letter. These sites also show contacts for the position.
Casting a broad scope when looking for internships is important for any type of work. A wide range of options ensures that if one position is not open, there will be a backup. Students must keep an open mind when looking for an internship. If one doesn’t fit, there are plenty out there that could.
INTERVIEWING FOR THE INTERNSHIP
Students should look on a company’s website under the “About Us” or “Careers” section. Besides a resume and cover letter, other documents that might be required include a work sample and a letter of recommendation.
Once prospective interns have made a connection, interested employers will most likely want to schedule an interview. The interview stage can be uneasy for many students. Here are some tips to make the interview less frightening:
- Dress well, looking professional and clean
- Arrive early, and make sure the employer knows you have arrived for the interview
- Shake the interviewer’s hand firmly and establish eye contact
- Be yourself
- After the interview, thank the interviewer for their time either through email or a note
Internships are a great way to get hands-on experience in the working world — it can also help with networking, so future employers can reference a student’s work.
