Finding a summer internship can feel like one of the most tedious and stressful activities in the world. I am going through it myself and have recently begun to reflect on all the things I have learned along the way. I'm certainly no expert, but I've definitely learned a few things from those who are.
1. Identifying what it is you want to do
As simple as it sounds, this is probably one of the most challenging steps. If you are not on a pre-med or finance track, then I'm sure you have faced this problem a few times. Learning that communications is quite vague or that marketing, advertising, and PR each have very distinct responsibilities are all steps in the right direction to finding that perfect internship. Research research research!
2. Discovering the right outlets
So where do you find these said jobs? If you have a career center available to you, then take advantage of it while you can. They will most likely have a site filled with internship and job postings. There are also other sites you can turn to, https://www.findspark.comFindSpark being one of them. When you see a job that piques your interest, apply. When you've applied to so many jobs it makes you want to cry, apply to one more.
3. Learning how to navigate a Career Fair
Doesn't everyone love waiting in line for 20 minutes just to speak to a potential employer for approximately 30 seconds? Learning your 'elevator pitch' is the only way to make this experience less painful for you. Best advice I ever learned? Wear something or say something that makes you stand out in a crowd. So later that evening when you reach out to the employers you met that day, you can identify yourself as the individual who wore that cool belt that they liked.
4. Making yourself look good...on paper
I don't know about you guys, but taking editor off of my high school newspaper was extremely disheartening for me. I worked hard for that position, don't they care? Truth is: I guess not. The day will come when every activity you did before your freshman year of college is deleted from your resume. Yes you were impressive then, but you are still impressive now!
5. Tailoring your Cover Letter correctly
Oh you have a 3.8, are majoring in Econ, and are involved in three extracurriculars? Great, so is the guy next to you. It is wonderful to do well in school and being involved is essential, but what makes you a good candidate for the position? What have you learned from your past experiences? Why is the 3.8 you received any different the ones received by the other candidates? You are unique, but remember to highlight those qualifications. Why YOU?
6. Taking your stalking skills to new heights
My dad's three favorite words are "network, network and network." Do some stalking on company websites and don't be afraid to email about potential job opportunities. Go on LinkedIn and search for people in your industry. Or better yet, reach out to alumni of your respective school and ask them about their work. Worse case scenario: you get nothing out of it and you move on. Best case: you land an internship (I've seen it happen many times).
7. Speaking of LinkedIn..
If you don't have a LinkedIn make one now. It is essential when applying to jobs nowadays and is a great way to get your name out there. Think of it as the professional Facebook. You can still stalk and connect with people, only this time you're staring at their resumes rather than their spring break photos.
8. Picking out the perfect outfit for your interview
I was always told that it's better to dress up than dress down, unless you're specifically told otherwise. Also who doesn't like to wear a blazer and a pair of black slacks every once in a while? And don't be afraid to wear some color--black and blue is great, but what about some white and gold? (kidding).
9. Selling yourself
If you can sell yourself in approximately 30 seconds, you're golden. Of course you will have more time than that in an interview, but start off strong (get that elevator pitch going). Don't forget to relax! Potential employers can pick up on your nerves. Go in strong and prove to them that you're the best they're going to get. Research the company and practice your "sales pitch." The more comfortable you are with what you're saying, the better you'll perform!
10. The waiting game...
I hear the jeopardy music playing in my head. The worst part is the wait, but don't let a rejection deter you from continuing to apply. I promise that when one door closes, another one opens (as long as you stick with it).
