Is it advisable to intern as a first-year college student?
I am applying to intern as I want to get more knowledge on the industry and have first-hand experience. However most internships are targeted at Students who are due to graduate in a year as they have more knowledge compared to first year students. Should I bother, or should I just wait until my 3rd/4th year to intern? #college #internships
7 answers
Kelly’s Answer
Hi Shrushti,
Great question! I would say definitely apply to an internship position as a first-year college student.
Not only could you find a great way to spend your summer break getting real industry experience, but it also prepares you for the process of getting an internship for the following years. Through the process of applying, you will get real practice in updating your resume, cover letter, and experience in interviewing!
I remember my first year of college, I had the same question, and I decided to give it a shot and apply to as many internships as possible. I actually was able to get an internship after applying to A LOT of companies, and I definitely still credit that first internship for allowing me to get internships down the road.
I hope you decide to try to apply, and good luck in your search!
Best,
Kelly LaBuff
Ro’s Answer
EmilyAnn’s Answer
So, I would say the earlier the better. If it doesn't work out, you have plenty of time to get an internship over your 4 years. Good luck to anyone in this position viewing this question now! :)
Samara’s Answer
Any experience you can get in your field is valuable. When applying for internships, be sure to highlight your strengths, experience and course work that might be of benefit the company and land you the job. Good luck!
Christine’s Answer
If you have not narrowed it down. You might want to pursue a volunteer experience of part-time position dealing with the public or doing research or working in a certain environment are ways of narrowing your target.
If you have a specific industry it may be you need at least some course work to have the basic skills for an internship. A visit to your Career Center will help.
Patsian’s Answer
Pros to interning early:
- Gives students a longer runway to exploring whether a particular role interests you
- If the student already knows what he/she is interested in, they may pick up the necessary skills to get better, by dealing with real-life issues in a work setting
- Building connections and exposure to network
A reason why one might not go for an internship in the 1st year:
- If the student is unable to get an internship in a field they are interested in, they may use their break time to recuperate, and spend time taking online courses to build up their knowledge base
- insufficient basic skills to contribute to a specific internship opportunity
THere is also the reality where holiday breaks are a good opportunity to work and earn some money, especially if most internships are unpaid. Please don't shortchange other working opportunities that can also be beneficial to your learning - even if the jobs are not in the field of study you're in, you'll still be gaining work experience, leadership experience, interaction and how to work with people, and building responsibility and habit in surviving a work setting.