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What is the best way to find internships/jobs in my field to help pay for college?
I am currently a second-year chemistry major, on grants, scholarships and student loans.
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5 answers
Paul Goetzinger MPA
Academic and Career Consultant and Freelance Writer
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Paul’s Answer
I would check the college or university career center.
Most institutions have these right on campus to help students obtain internships and interview with potential employers.
Most institutions have these right on campus to help students obtain internships and interview with potential employers.
Updated
Richard’s Answer
Hailey, that is an excellent question with many students early into their education asking the same thing. As has been mentioned in a previous response, I would highly recommend connecting with professor's to get started. They will be your first forms of networking in the industry (since many of them come from an industry position before teaching) and they will be a big help in getting you that first internship/job. Anything to stand out when it comes to asking for letters of recommendation in the future will be a great help.
In addition though, a great opportunity that is often overlooked, is a teaching assistant position. These often just involve emailing around to that network of professors I mentioned, having a decent enough grade from the time you took that course, and an affinity for helping others. Because most colleges have so many courses, they are surprisingly stretched thin with TA's. Plus as far as your resume, it shows great initiative, leadership (as in some cases you may even lead a basic course for the day), and a particularly strong background in whatever that course may be (since you'll be teaching and grading tests multiple times for each class you teach). Best of luck!
In addition though, a great opportunity that is often overlooked, is a teaching assistant position. These often just involve emailing around to that network of professors I mentioned, having a decent enough grade from the time you took that course, and an affinity for helping others. Because most colleges have so many courses, they are surprisingly stretched thin with TA's. Plus as far as your resume, it shows great initiative, leadership (as in some cases you may even lead a basic course for the day), and a particularly strong background in whatever that course may be (since you'll be teaching and grading tests multiple times for each class you teach). Best of luck!
Updated
Amanda’s Answer
Hello Hailey,
Adding to the fantastic advice you've already received, it could be beneficial to dedicate some time to researching the specific industry you're interested in. Understanding the market demand and the needs of potential employees can give you a clearer picture of what's out there.
I've also compiled a list of helpful websites for you to explore, all available in California!
1. Indeed.com: This job search engine offers a wide range of internships and job opportunities in California. You can customize your search based on location, job type, and salary range. Currently, there are 6,237 internship positions available in California on Indeed.com.
2. California Intern Network: This platform offers part-time, paid internships across California for both undergraduate and graduate students. You can find out more about the program and apply for internships on their website.
3. WayUp: This job search platform lists internships for students in California. You can find internships that align with your studies, fit into your academic schedule, and provide real-world application of what you've learned.
Best of luck on your journey!
Adding to the fantastic advice you've already received, it could be beneficial to dedicate some time to researching the specific industry you're interested in. Understanding the market demand and the needs of potential employees can give you a clearer picture of what's out there.
I've also compiled a list of helpful websites for you to explore, all available in California!
1. Indeed.com: This job search engine offers a wide range of internships and job opportunities in California. You can customize your search based on location, job type, and salary range. Currently, there are 6,237 internship positions available in California on Indeed.com.
2. California Intern Network: This platform offers part-time, paid internships across California for both undergraduate and graduate students. You can find out more about the program and apply for internships on their website.
3. WayUp: This job search platform lists internships for students in California. You can find internships that align with your studies, fit into your academic schedule, and provide real-world application of what you've learned.
Best of luck on your journey!
Updated
Karin’s Answer
Hi Hailey,
I would recommend looking for an opportunity to do research at a university or national lab. These are usually paid, but their real value is the research experience you'll get. It will boost your CV too and set you apart.
You find information about the NSF REU program (Research Experience for Undergrads) here:
https://www.nsf.gov/crssprgm/reu/
https://www.nsf.gov/crssprgm/reu/list_result.jsp?unitid=5048
And information on summer internships at national labs here:
https://science.osti.gov/wdts/suli
https://ieor.berkeley.edu/jobs/intern-sandia-doe-science-undergrad-laboratory-intern-suli-rd-fellowship-undergrad-summer-at-sandia-national-laboratories/
https://pls.llnl.gov/careers/internship-programs/maci
https://www.llnl.gov/join-our-team/careers/students
Also, look at job search sites like LinkedIn, Indeed and Glassdoor and search for internships.
You can also ask professors in your department if they have any jobs or research opportunities available or if they have any industry connections where you could go.
I hope this helps. Good luck!
KP
I would recommend looking for an opportunity to do research at a university or national lab. These are usually paid, but their real value is the research experience you'll get. It will boost your CV too and set you apart.
You find information about the NSF REU program (Research Experience for Undergrads) here:
https://www.nsf.gov/crssprgm/reu/
https://www.nsf.gov/crssprgm/reu/list_result.jsp?unitid=5048
And information on summer internships at national labs here:
https://science.osti.gov/wdts/suli
https://ieor.berkeley.edu/jobs/intern-sandia-doe-science-undergrad-laboratory-intern-suli-rd-fellowship-undergrad-summer-at-sandia-national-laboratories/
https://pls.llnl.gov/careers/internship-programs/maci
https://www.llnl.gov/join-our-team/careers/students
Also, look at job search sites like LinkedIn, Indeed and Glassdoor and search for internships.
You can also ask professors in your department if they have any jobs or research opportunities available or if they have any industry connections where you could go.
I hope this helps. Good luck!
KP
Updated
Moneca’s Answer
Hello Hailey,
That's a fantastic question! Here's a step-by-step plan to help you land that internship:
1. Start with your University Career Center - they're there to help you. Make use of their resources and guidance.
2. Seek advice from your professors. They have industry connections and can give you valuable insights.
3. Don't forget your personal network - family, friends, and neighbors. They might know someone who knows someone, so don't hesitate to ask.
4. Conduct some research to find out the leading companies in your desired industry. Once you have a list, start reaching out to them, expressing your interest in an internship.
5. Lastly, consider attending career fairs specific to your industry. This is a great way to meet industry professionals and expand your network.
Best of luck in your search!
That's a fantastic question! Here's a step-by-step plan to help you land that internship:
1. Start with your University Career Center - they're there to help you. Make use of their resources and guidance.
2. Seek advice from your professors. They have industry connections and can give you valuable insights.
3. Don't forget your personal network - family, friends, and neighbors. They might know someone who knows someone, so don't hesitate to ask.
4. Conduct some research to find out the leading companies in your desired industry. Once you have a list, start reaching out to them, expressing your interest in an internship.
5. Lastly, consider attending career fairs specific to your industry. This is a great way to meet industry professionals and expand your network.
Best of luck in your search!