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How can I get industry exposure (Internship) in my 2nd or 3rd year of engineering and what are the skills to be learnt from my 1st year of engineering ?
currently pursuing BE (CSE) in 1st year
9 answers
Updated
Sandeep’s Answer
Hello Tej,
Start building your foundation from 1st year. DSA, programming (C++/Java/Python), Git/GitHub, SQL, and basic web/cloud skills are good examples. Don’t try to learn everything at once. Pick one area and build 2–3 good projects.
For internships in 2nd/3rd year, start applying early through LinkedIn, company career pages, college networks, hackathons and referrals. Participate in hackathons and open-source projects too as they’re great ways to build practical experience and stand out.
Most importantly, focus on projects + problem-solving + consistency and, not just certificates.
Start building your foundation from 1st year. DSA, programming (C++/Java/Python), Git/GitHub, SQL, and basic web/cloud skills are good examples. Don’t try to learn everything at once. Pick one area and build 2–3 good projects.
For internships in 2nd/3rd year, start applying early through LinkedIn, company career pages, college networks, hackathons and referrals. Participate in hackathons and open-source projects too as they’re great ways to build practical experience and stand out.
Most importantly, focus on projects + problem-solving + consistency and, not just certificates.
I really want to thank you so much for actively answering my doubts and helping me grow in my career
Tej
Updated
Moiz’s Answer
Getting an internship is definitely achievable!
Start with core concepts in Data Structures for Programming. I would recommend Python as a great starting point across the list of many different programming languages.
Look in to building a project that is easy for you to explain. Followed by fundamentals, I would look in to version control as this is necessary when working in teams in companies. Nowadays, learning one of the cloud platforms is extremely beneficial.
Often times, the hardest part of studying is just getting started. There is countless learning material on the Internet and through books. Choose one tutorial and follow it from start to finish. Getting any experience would be extremely beneficial and help you for later years so do not worry about finding the perfect company, role or industry.
Good luck, you got this!
Start with core concepts in Data Structures for Programming. I would recommend Python as a great starting point across the list of many different programming languages.
Look in to building a project that is easy for you to explain. Followed by fundamentals, I would look in to version control as this is necessary when working in teams in companies. Nowadays, learning one of the cloud platforms is extremely beneficial.
Often times, the hardest part of studying is just getting started. There is countless learning material on the Internet and through books. Choose one tutorial and follow it from start to finish. Getting any experience would be extremely beneficial and help you for later years so do not worry about finding the perfect company, role or industry.
Good luck, you got this!
Updated
Lorenzo’s Answer
That's a great question! It's important to start thinking about industry exposure even before your 2nd or 3rd year. In your first year, focus on building a strong foundation and creating opportunities.
With my experience in healthcare transformation, technology, and AI, I've seen how crucial it is for students to mix technical knowledge with real-world experience. The standout students are often curious, reliable, eager to learn, and good communicators.
In your first year of engineering, concentrate on these core skills:
1. Strengthen your basics: Focus on math, physics, basic programming, problem-solving, and engineering concepts. These are the building blocks for advanced work later.
2. Learn a programming language: Start with Python; it's useful for data analysis, automation, AI, and more. You don't need to be an expert right away, but be comfortable with simple programs and data work.
3. Improve communication skills: This is crucial in the industry. Practice writing project summaries, presenting your work, and explaining technical topics simply. Good communication sets you apart.
4. Work on small projects: Don't wait for an internship. Create simple projects, join clubs, competitions, research groups, or open-source projects. These give you real experiences to discuss in interviews.
5. Understand how the industry works: Follow companies, learn about different roles, attend webinars, talk to seniors, and connect with alumni. This helps you find what interests you before applying for internships.
For internships in your 2nd or 3rd year, start early. Build a basic resume, create a LinkedIn profile, and reach out to people in companies or alumni. Don't just apply online; have conversations with those in roles you want.
When applying, clearly show what you've learned, what you've built, and why you're interested in the company or field. Even without formal experience, projects, coursework, and club work can show your potential.
Be open-minded. Your first internship doesn't have to be perfect. The goal is to gain exposure, learn how teams work, solve problems, and find the right environment for you.
My biggest advice: don't wait to feel "ready." Start building small experiences now. Learn the basics well, develop practical skills, communicate clearly, and stay curious. These steps will build momentum and make you more competitive for internships in your later years.
With my experience in healthcare transformation, technology, and AI, I've seen how crucial it is for students to mix technical knowledge with real-world experience. The standout students are often curious, reliable, eager to learn, and good communicators.
In your first year of engineering, concentrate on these core skills:
1. Strengthen your basics: Focus on math, physics, basic programming, problem-solving, and engineering concepts. These are the building blocks for advanced work later.
2. Learn a programming language: Start with Python; it's useful for data analysis, automation, AI, and more. You don't need to be an expert right away, but be comfortable with simple programs and data work.
3. Improve communication skills: This is crucial in the industry. Practice writing project summaries, presenting your work, and explaining technical topics simply. Good communication sets you apart.
4. Work on small projects: Don't wait for an internship. Create simple projects, join clubs, competitions, research groups, or open-source projects. These give you real experiences to discuss in interviews.
5. Understand how the industry works: Follow companies, learn about different roles, attend webinars, talk to seniors, and connect with alumni. This helps you find what interests you before applying for internships.
For internships in your 2nd or 3rd year, start early. Build a basic resume, create a LinkedIn profile, and reach out to people in companies or alumni. Don't just apply online; have conversations with those in roles you want.
When applying, clearly show what you've learned, what you've built, and why you're interested in the company or field. Even without formal experience, projects, coursework, and club work can show your potential.
Be open-minded. Your first internship doesn't have to be perfect. The goal is to gain exposure, learn how teams work, solve problems, and find the right environment for you.
My biggest advice: don't wait to feel "ready." Start building small experiences now. Learn the basics well, develop practical skills, communicate clearly, and stay curious. These steps will build momentum and make you more competitive for internships in your later years.
I appreciate you taking the time to answer this.
Tej
Updated
Rawan’s Answer
Hi Tej,
First, I recommend scheduling as many coffee chats as you can fit into your schedule to gain exposure to the different avenues you can take in securing an internship, and ultimately, a full-time job. This will help you understand what types of organizations suit your interests. Since you have 2 more summers to gain internship experiences, you might realize that you like working in one type of environment over the other. These coffee chats will help you get an idea of which ones you want to apply to between these two summers. While I'm not an engineer, I will also say to be open-minded to ways you gain this experience that might be less discussed. For example, applying to corporate teams that are looking for technical/engineering backgrounds to support them on projects requiring technical expertise, versus SWE internships, might also be of interest to you. Make sure you maintain these networks as they will be very useful for you throughout the rest of college and during your career.
In terms of the internship application process itself, specifically with regards to corporate, you will most likely need to send out many applications a week given the current demand for internships and jobs. Make sure the skills you've learned in your courses, and any extracurriculars you have highlight/reflect the specific skills listed on any given application. At this stage, you're not expected to have extensive work experiences that will highlight technical skills, but you can showcase your story/interests/skillset through your classes and extracurriculars and by reaching out to folks.
First, I recommend scheduling as many coffee chats as you can fit into your schedule to gain exposure to the different avenues you can take in securing an internship, and ultimately, a full-time job. This will help you understand what types of organizations suit your interests. Since you have 2 more summers to gain internship experiences, you might realize that you like working in one type of environment over the other. These coffee chats will help you get an idea of which ones you want to apply to between these two summers. While I'm not an engineer, I will also say to be open-minded to ways you gain this experience that might be less discussed. For example, applying to corporate teams that are looking for technical/engineering backgrounds to support them on projects requiring technical expertise, versus SWE internships, might also be of interest to you. Make sure you maintain these networks as they will be very useful for you throughout the rest of college and during your career.
In terms of the internship application process itself, specifically with regards to corporate, you will most likely need to send out many applications a week given the current demand for internships and jobs. Make sure the skills you've learned in your courses, and any extracurriculars you have highlight/reflect the specific skills listed on any given application. At this stage, you're not expected to have extensive work experiences that will highlight technical skills, but you can showcase your story/interests/skillset through your classes and extracurriculars and by reaching out to folks.
Updated
Teklemuz’s Answer
To get a CSE internship, start by learning the basics of programming in a language you like and that matches your strengths. Then, explore object-oriented programming, data structures, algorithms, SQL, databases, Git/GitHub, APIs, and core computer science concepts. Use resources like roadmap.sh for planning, HackerRank for basics, LeetCode for algorithms, and Exercism for practice. Create two practical, deployable projects that solve real problems and describe them using Action → Impact → Result. Pick a field like web development, AI/ML, data, cybersecurity, cloud, or mobile development and gain experience through projects, research, or open-source contributions.
Begin applying early to startups, research roles, college programs, and other internships. Tailor your resume to highlight relevant skills, projects, achievements, and results, keeping it one page and ATS-friendly. Organize your GitHub and connect with seniors, alumni, developers, and recruiters. For interviews, practice data structures, algorithms, mock interviews, and project discussions. Be confident, explain your work clearly, and be ready to discuss your technical choices, learn from mistakes, and tackle new challenges logically. View rejections as opportunities to learn, focus on improving, and keep moving forward. Remember, skills and proven ability matter more than certificates.
Begin applying early to startups, research roles, college programs, and other internships. Tailor your resume to highlight relevant skills, projects, achievements, and results, keeping it one page and ATS-friendly. Organize your GitHub and connect with seniors, alumni, developers, and recruiters. For interviews, practice data structures, algorithms, mock interviews, and project discussions. Be confident, explain your work clearly, and be ready to discuss your technical choices, learn from mistakes, and tackle new challenges logically. View rejections as opportunities to learn, focus on improving, and keep moving forward. Remember, skills and proven ability matter more than certificates.
I appreciate this, thank you for the advice.
Tej
Updated
Sijoy’s Answer
Hi Tej,
It's fantastic that you are already considering internships and industry exposure early in your engineering studies. This proactive approach will truly help you shine.
Getting Industry Exposure in 2nd/3rd Year:
Campus Placements & Career Cells: Most colleges have placement cells that link students with companies for internships. Start connecting with them now.
Networking: Attend tech meetups, hackathons, and seminars in Bengaluru. Meeting professionals can lead to internship opportunities.
Online Platforms: Check websites like Internshala, LinkedIn, and company career pages for internship listings.
Faculty Guidance: Professors often know industry contacts. Don’t hesitate to ask for their recommendations.
Projects & Hackathons: Join coding competitions or open-source projects to show your skills and attract internships.
Skills to Build in 1st Year:
Programming Fundamentals: Learn languages like C, C++, Python, or Java.
Data Structures & Algorithms: These are key in computer science and will help in interviews.
Problem-Solving: Practice coding on platforms like HackerRank, LeetCode, or Codeforces.
Basic Web Development: Get to know HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to build small projects.
Soft Skills: Focus on communication, teamwork, and time management.
Curiosity & Exploration: Try mini-projects to apply what you learn.
Think of your first year as building a strong base. By your 2nd or 3rd year, you will have the skills and confidence to pursue internships and gain industry experience. Asking these questions now shows you're preparing wisely, and that's what will set you apart.
Wishing you success and growth in your engineering journey.
It's fantastic that you are already considering internships and industry exposure early in your engineering studies. This proactive approach will truly help you shine.
Getting Industry Exposure in 2nd/3rd Year:
Campus Placements & Career Cells: Most colleges have placement cells that link students with companies for internships. Start connecting with them now.
Networking: Attend tech meetups, hackathons, and seminars in Bengaluru. Meeting professionals can lead to internship opportunities.
Online Platforms: Check websites like Internshala, LinkedIn, and company career pages for internship listings.
Faculty Guidance: Professors often know industry contacts. Don’t hesitate to ask for their recommendations.
Projects & Hackathons: Join coding competitions or open-source projects to show your skills and attract internships.
Skills to Build in 1st Year:
Programming Fundamentals: Learn languages like C, C++, Python, or Java.
Data Structures & Algorithms: These are key in computer science and will help in interviews.
Problem-Solving: Practice coding on platforms like HackerRank, LeetCode, or Codeforces.
Basic Web Development: Get to know HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to build small projects.
Soft Skills: Focus on communication, teamwork, and time management.
Curiosity & Exploration: Try mini-projects to apply what you learn.
Think of your first year as building a strong base. By your 2nd or 3rd year, you will have the skills and confidence to pursue internships and gain industry experience. Asking these questions now shows you're preparing wisely, and that's what will set you apart.
Wishing you success and growth in your engineering journey.
Thank you for your advice and the valuable time you put in
Tej
Updated
William’s Answer
Hi Tej,
I'm delighted to take this opportunity to respond to your query.
Practical competence is essential for building successful careers.
Practical knowledge is acquired through experience. Experience is qualitative, quantitative and accumulates progressively with time. The better you are at doing something, the higher are your chances of standing out as you become more effective & efficient.
Once you start rising up the ladder, you need sufficient grounding in the work your subordinates do so you can supervise and support them effectively.
Opportunities for practical work for students come in many forms: internships, mentorships, apprenticeships etc.
Usually, the career offices in your university/college is a good place to start from - you can easily make choices from the available opportunities.
You can also apply directly to the organizations of your choice. Family, friends, relatives and colleagues can be helpful too.
I'm delighted to take this opportunity to respond to your query.
Practical competence is essential for building successful careers.
Practical knowledge is acquired through experience. Experience is qualitative, quantitative and accumulates progressively with time. The better you are at doing something, the higher are your chances of standing out as you become more effective & efficient.
Once you start rising up the ladder, you need sufficient grounding in the work your subordinates do so you can supervise and support them effectively.
Opportunities for practical work for students come in many forms: internships, mentorships, apprenticeships etc.
Usually, the career offices in your university/college is a good place to start from - you can easily make choices from the available opportunities.
You can also apply directly to the organizations of your choice. Family, friends, relatives and colleagues can be helpful too.
I will use this advice as I prepare for my career.
Tej
Updated
Supreeti’s Answer
Thinking about future and planning is a great way to start marching towards the goal that you want to accomplish. For every successful career the one thing that is consistent is building the foundations strong. No matter what field you are in the fundamentals need to be clear, your core skills. Building Projects, participating in competitions and creating a network for yourself through seniors and your professors will help in getting you closer to the internships that you deserve. I would suggest creating a portfolio website with your accomplishments. There are also companies that do internship programs, creating a list of the ones that you want to apply for would be a start. Approach that senior/alumni you know to get more details and follow through. Consistently keep at it from your 2nd year onward, build the experience with even startup's, they will give you the industry exposure for the future. Hope this helps. Keep your eye on that goal and you shall make it. Good luck!
Thank you for the advice
Tej
Updated
Shilpa’s Answer
It's fantastic that you're considering gaining industry experience because working in a team is so important. Try reaching out to local nonprofits that need help with tech projects. They will value your contributions, and you'll get the chance to tackle real-world challenges.
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