As you rise into your junior and senior year of college you start to realize that your childhood has really come to an end and now it's time to join your parents in the real world. Hopefully you have found a major that you are passionate about and can not wait to start your career. But before you can get that nice job, most colleges require an internship. An internship can be your gateway into an amazing company, job type, or help you realize what type of position is and is not for you.

Here are my top six tips on landing your dream internship:

6. Plan Plan Plan...

Whether you decide to do your internship your junior or senior year, you have a lot of decisions to make. Some may be when you want to do your internship (Fall, Spring, or Summer), where you would like to do your internship (close to your school or traveling to a different area), and even if you can receive school credit, just to name a few. Details and planning are very important when deciding to take on an internship, it will keep you organized, focused, and will have your eye on the prize!

5. Use Your Resources!!!

With Google at the tip of your fingertips, you can just about find anything! Including jobs and internships. Using sites like Indeed & InternMatch will also help guide you in the direction you need to start on. Using these sites will help you refine your opportunities by major or career path making your searching process easy and less stressful in the end. But make sure you research the company before you apply! Not doing so may lead you to an unwanted position or a scam.

4. You Need A Cover Letter...

I know I know! But with the job/ internship market being so competitive it is so easy to not get chosen for a position even when you fit the qualities they are searching for. Hundreds of people are competing with you for this amazing spot and if you do not have a cover letter, someone else sure as heck will! Even though some internships say cover letters are not required--DO IT! It not only benefits you but lets the employer know more about you.

3. Apply For A Company You Have Always Admired!

Everyone has a dream of what they want their career to be, so why not take that risk at an internship? Applying to large companies may sound hard and can be stressful looking for an entry level position, but take advantage of being a student by trying to get your foot in the door with an internship! Who said you can't work and have fun?

2. Be Prepared!!!

Although you may be applying to a lot of internships, you need to take each one you apply for seriously and give it full dedication. When you apply for a position, you are showing your interest. So when they randomly give you a call and ask information you should know about their company, you best believe they want you to know it!

1. Apply On Time!!!

Being on time is one of the most important skills you should have learned growing up because it will never leave your side! Internship coordinators have many other applicants who would do anything for this position, so do not think that your proper attendance is affecting you! Actually arrive at an interview 15-20 minutes prior! It gives you the chance to cool down, shake off the nerves, and fully prepare yourself for the opportunity of a lifetime!