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How can I find research or internship opportunities? #Spring25

How can I find research opportunities or internships as an incoming college freshman that will give me hands-on experience in data science and help me gain a competitive advantage in the future? #Spring25

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Poly’s Answer

On top of using your school's career center, you should probably also look at the various student associations that have connections with company recruiters and industry leaders. I highly encourage you to not overlook these associations' resources. These associations usually invite people to come speak with its members on various topics about the profession and the company that they represent, AND, they almost never come without job openings.

Also, I would also explore volunteer opportunities on campus to work with your professors. Many university professors have research projects that they're also working on. You just have to approach and ask.

Being a college freshman has its advantages because time will be on your side. Time to build relationships (the most important in my opinion). Time to explore niche areas within the field. Time to change your mind. Time to discover new fields that you initially thought may not fit you but find out that you'd actually be a perfect fit.

DO NOT be fixated on where or who you want to work for/intern with. Companies (and governments) of all sizes have data scientists working for them; WHO (individual/team) you want to learn from is much more important.
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Dino’s Answer

Hi, Zachary! Thanks for reaching out. Your question is interesting, and we hope this helps clarify things.

Your degree at school offers two main benefits: research and internships. Every subject you take usually includes a research component. This helps assess your skills and knowledge, preparing you as a future leader in your field. When you take classes related to your major, you'll get to improve your research skills even more.

Enjoy your time in school, and it's great that you see how important research and internships are for your career growth.
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Sivanand’s Answer

Hi Zachary,

Great question! I recommend signing up for Handshake (https://joinhandshake.com) it was an incredibly useful platform for me during college, especially for finding interviews and participating in career fairs.

Also, don’t underestimate the power of networking. Many opportunities arise through personal connections, so focus on building meaningful relationships. It's more about the quality of your network than the quantity.

Wishing you the best in finding your dream career!
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Burnee’s Answer

Great question! Making real connections at school is super important for both your personal and career growth. Be sure to join in on all the activities your school has, like career fairs and meet-the-firm events. These are great ways to meet classmates, mentors, and future employers. They help you build a strong network and learn about different career options.
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Stella’s Answer

Awesome question! Begin by checking out your school’s career center and attending networking events—they’re perfect for spotting job openings and meeting new people. Don’t hesitate to contact firms directly, even the smaller ones. In my time in public accounting, I've seen that firms truly appreciate students who take the first step and show real interest. A simple email can make a big difference. Keep asking questions and putting yourself out there—you’re doing great!
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ZIwei’s Answer

Start by exploring research opportunities at your university—reach out to professors whose work aligns with your interests and express a willingness to help, even in small ways. Join data science or coding clubs and engage with student-led projects to build practical skills. Taking online courses that include real-world projects can also strengthen your portfolio.
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ying’s Answer

I encourage you to attend all the job fairs and events on campus. Submit your application to the ones that catch your interest.
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Jake’s Answer

I would suggest using your school’s career center. They are great in getting you to the necessary resources and to practice interview skills.
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Farina’s Answer

I would recommend using your school's career center resources. They are an excellent resource for student to explore in a safe setting. Next step is to look at some local or regional firm websites and explore the internship opportunities directly. These sites should also give you the details on how to apply and any timelines they may have for hiring etc. If you are planning to apply at a Big 4 firm, I would apply through your school or directly on their websites. Their process may be a bit more in depth and time consuming but worth the effort if you want to intern there.
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Juaner’s Answer

Hi, Zachary. I would recommend visiting your school's career center, job portal (like Handshake) or join your school's club events.
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Celina’s Answer

Hi Zachary, it's great to see your enthusiasm for finding internships as a college freshman. Here's how you can start:

1. **Network with Peers and Professors:** Talk to your professors about internship opportunities. Connect with classmates who have internships or jobs, and ask them about their experiences and how they got there.

2. **Attend Career Fairs:** Make sure to go to career fairs at your college. These events are valuable because professionals in your field offer advice and potential internship opportunities.

Good luck with your search!
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Robert’s Answer

1. Take advantage of your university's resources. Many have career centers to help you find internships and research opportunities. Also, explore your university's website.

2. Use online platforms like LinkedIn, Indeed, and Glassdoor, which often list internships and research opportunities. Apply for these internships just like you would for a job.

3. Look at the social media pages of companies you're interested in. They might post internship opportunities on Twitter and LinkedIn.

4. Email professors or researchers whose work you find interesting. Show your enthusiasm and ask if they have openings for research assistants or interns.

5. Join professional organizations in your field. They often have job boards and networking events that can help you find opportunities.
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Hanna’s Answer

Hi Zachary!

Never underestimate the power of just asking. I had a family friend who worked for a local furniture company's marketing department. I sent him an email asking if his company or his team was accepting interns for the summer. His VP ended up agreeing and that is how I got my internship which led to a return offer.

I see others recommending utilizing university resources and these are also very helpful. Many universities also have a department where they will help you tailor your resume for internships in specific fields. I highly recommend using these resources.

Best of luck!
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Charlotte’s Answer

Hi,
Finding research and internship opportunities as an incoming college freshman can feel daunting, but it’s a great way to build skills and gain a competitive edge—especially in data science. Here’s how to get started:

1. Start on Campus:
Connect with Professors Early:

Reach out to professors who teach statistics, computer science, or data analytics courses.

Introduce yourself via email, expressing your interest in data science and asking if they know of any ongoing research projects you could assist with.

Even if they don’t have opportunities, they might direct you to colleagues who do.

Research Labs and Centers:

Many universities have data science labs or interdisciplinary research centers. Visit their websites and look for undergraduate research assistant positions.

Attend departmental seminars or meet-and-greet events to learn about ongoing projects.

Join Student Organizations:

Join clubs related to data science, machine learning, or computer science.

Clubs often collaborate with professors or companies to offer hands-on projects or data challenges.

2. Use Your School’s Career Resources:
Career Services:

Schedule an appointment to discuss your interests. They often have lists of internships and research programs.

Handshake or Similar Platforms:

Many colleges use platforms like Handshake where companies post internships specifically for students.

Undergraduate Research Office:

Check if your school has an office dedicated to research opportunities. They might offer funded summer research programs.

3. Leverage Online Platforms:
Internship Search Websites:

Check out platforms like LinkedIn, Indeed, Glassdoor, and Internships.com.

Specific Data Science Internships:

Sites like Built In, Kaggle, and AngelList often list internships in data science and tech startups.

Research Programs for Freshmen:

NSF REU (Research Experiences for Undergraduates): Offers summer research opportunities in data science and related fields.

Google STEP Internship: Specifically designed for freshmen and sophomores in tech fields.

CodePath: Offers courses and connects students with tech internships.

4. Network with Alumni and Upperclassmen:
Join LinkedIn Groups:

Find groups related to your university’s data science programs or alumni networks.

Connect with Upperclassmen:

Ask students in data science or computer science about how they found their internships or research positions.

Attend Hackathons or Workshops:

Participate in coding competitions and data challenges. Companies sometimes scout talent at these events.

5. Cold Emailing and Reaching Out:
Craft a Professional Email:

Introduce yourself, briefly explain your interest in data science, and mention any relevant skills (like Python or R).

Be specific about why you’re reaching out (e.g., wanting to gain research experience).

Ask if there might be any opportunities to assist with ongoing projects.

Who to Reach Out To:

Professors, graduate students working in data science labs, or professionals at local companies.
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Aparna’s Answer

Hi Charlotte!

1) Make it a habit to check LinkedIn for job openings and reach out to recruiters directly. This can open up great opportunities for you!

2) Many colleges use Handshake, a fantastic platform for students to highlight their profiles and connect with recruiters in a professional way. Your school might have a Career Center where you can get help with your resume, interview practice, and networking. The staff there often have real-world experience and truly understand what you're going through.

3) Attend internship fairs at your university. They can be long and tiring, but they're worth it because you get to meet many recruiters and learn about exciting opportunities.

If you have specific industries or companies in mind, check their websites for job openings. Also, use LinkedIn to connect with professionals in roles you admire. Many are happy to chat over coffee and share their experiences.

You've got this! Good luck!
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