4 answers
Somfechukwu
Student
Fort Thomas, Kentucky
1
Question
Updated
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When is the best time in your college career to start looking for and applying to internships?
I am a senior in high school, going to college in NYC next year, and majoring in international political economy with the intention of going to law school.
#Spring25
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4 answers
Lauren Pearce
Tax Senior Associate
4
Answers
Dallas, Texas
Updated
Lauren’s Answer
I would start looking for internships during your sophomore year in the fall and begin interning the summer following your sophomore year. Sophomore year is typically when you begin work related directly to your major and begin developing your skills for the career you want to pursue. In addition, most competitive internships recommend one year of college to apply. In the summer following your freshman year, it may be beneficial to volunteer in the industry relating to your career, and doing so during sophomore year will definitely help boost your resume.
I would apply early, stay active in the volunteering, connect with people in the field at career fairs and LinkedIn, and work on developing your skill set. I would also talk to a career advisor once you begin college so they can help match you to internships for your desired career.
I would apply early, stay active in the volunteering, connect with people in the field at career fairs and LinkedIn, and work on developing your skill set. I would also talk to a career advisor once you begin college so they can help match you to internships for your desired career.
Sijoy Sagar
Program Manager
4
Answers
Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
Updated
Sijoy’s Answer
Hi Somfechukwu,
What a great question, it's a bit tricky, but I will do my best to guide you. The ideal time to start looking for and applying to internships depends on where you are in your studies and your career goals. Generally, the best time to start looking is at the beginning of your sophomore year, and you should start applying seriously by late fall of that year.
Freshman and Sophomore Years: Internships might be less common, but they are a great way to explore different fields and gain basic experience. Look for opportunities that offer mentorship and skill-building.
Junior Year: This is a key time for internships. By now, you would have completed relevant courses and better understand your field. Internships can give you hands-on experience and help you connect with professionals.
Senior Year: Internships can be strategic, especially if you are aiming for a job offer after graduation. They also provide extra experience before you start full-time work.
Application Timing: Begin researching and applying for internships at least 3–4 months before you want to start. Big companies often have early deadlines, while smaller ones might recruit closer to the start date. Competitive fields fill spots quickly, so early application is key. Many internships prefer students who have completed at least a year of college, as you will have some foundational knowledge.
A Smart Timeline for You:
Freshman Fall: Focus on your grades, join clubs, and volunteer locally.
Freshman Spring: Start researching potential internship programs.
Sophomore Fall: Actively apply and keep an eye on deadlines, which can vary by location.
Sophomore Spring: Interview and secure summer internships.
Junior Year: Aim for higher level internships or specialized training roles.
Senior Year: Concentrate on getting a job offer or securing a future position through internships.
Wishing you all the very best and You have got this. Stay proactive and focused, and you will find great opportunities ahead.
What a great question, it's a bit tricky, but I will do my best to guide you. The ideal time to start looking for and applying to internships depends on where you are in your studies and your career goals. Generally, the best time to start looking is at the beginning of your sophomore year, and you should start applying seriously by late fall of that year.
Freshman and Sophomore Years: Internships might be less common, but they are a great way to explore different fields and gain basic experience. Look for opportunities that offer mentorship and skill-building.
Junior Year: This is a key time for internships. By now, you would have completed relevant courses and better understand your field. Internships can give you hands-on experience and help you connect with professionals.
Senior Year: Internships can be strategic, especially if you are aiming for a job offer after graduation. They also provide extra experience before you start full-time work.
Application Timing: Begin researching and applying for internships at least 3–4 months before you want to start. Big companies often have early deadlines, while smaller ones might recruit closer to the start date. Competitive fields fill spots quickly, so early application is key. Many internships prefer students who have completed at least a year of college, as you will have some foundational knowledge.
A Smart Timeline for You:
Freshman Fall: Focus on your grades, join clubs, and volunteer locally.
Freshman Spring: Start researching potential internship programs.
Sophomore Fall: Actively apply and keep an eye on deadlines, which can vary by location.
Sophomore Spring: Interview and secure summer internships.
Junior Year: Aim for higher level internships or specialized training roles.
Senior Year: Concentrate on getting a job offer or securing a future position through internships.
Wishing you all the very best and You have got this. Stay proactive and focused, and you will find great opportunities ahead.
Christopher Jang
3
Answers
Updated
Christopher’s Answer
The best time to start looking for and applying to internships is usually during your first year of college. While many internships are geared toward sophomores and juniors, there are still opportunities for first-year students, especially in larger cities like NYC. Early on, you might find more part-time roles, volunteer positions, or campus jobs that help you build skills and experience.
During your first year, focus on getting involved in student organizations, attending career fairs, and building relationships with professors and classmates. These activities will help you learn about different opportunities and make connections that can lead to internships later on.
By the end of your first year or the start of your sophomore year, you should actively start searching and applying for internships, especially for the summer. Many competitive summer internships have application deadlines as early as the fall or winter before the summer you want to intern, so it’s helpful to plan ahead.
Since you’re interested in international political economy and law, look for internships with nonprofits, government agencies, research institutes, or law firms. Even if the roles aren’t directly related to law, any experience that builds your research, writing, and analytical skills will be valuable!
During your first year, focus on getting involved in student organizations, attending career fairs, and building relationships with professors and classmates. These activities will help you learn about different opportunities and make connections that can lead to internships later on.
By the end of your first year or the start of your sophomore year, you should actively start searching and applying for internships, especially for the summer. Many competitive summer internships have application deadlines as early as the fall or winter before the summer you want to intern, so it’s helpful to plan ahead.
Since you’re interested in international political economy and law, look for internships with nonprofits, government agencies, research institutes, or law firms. Even if the roles aren’t directly related to law, any experience that builds your research, writing, and analytical skills will be valuable!
Krishawna Crum
Credentialing Assistant 3
10
Answers
Updated
Krishawna’s Answer
Thanks for asking a great question. I believe it is never to early to prepare for your future. With the major you are seeking, it is a good idea to start with volunteer opportunities.
Look for volunteer opportunities at local agencies such as law firms, public offices such as the mayor's office.
Ask your school counselor about volunteer or educational organizations that can assist with placement
Once enrolled in college, ask your advisor about volunteer opportunities on campus
Also, ask advisor about political organizations you can join to gain experience
Krishawna recommends the following next steps: