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I am graduating from college in May and am currently applying for internships. Is there anything else I should be doing before graduating?
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APPLY FOR INTERNSHIPS EARLY
Securing an internship is a bit of a numbers game, the more places you apply, the better your chances. However, that shouldn’t keep you from doing your research on prospective employers. Your time is finite and you can only do so many internships–so make them count. Where you apply should depend on your career ambitions. Make a list of your favorite organizations or companies that reflect your interests and values. Explore websites like Glassdoor and Canary that have reviews from interns and fellows. Talk to your college career office and classmates to discover which employers have the best internship offerings.
You should also weigh other key factors like the location and compensation. While online internships offer great convenience, they also limit your ability to engage in the office culture and develop deeper relationships with potential mentors and future references. Moreover, whether an internship is paid or unpaid can significantly impact your experience. Studies have shown that paid internships have a greater chance of leading to full-time employment. There’s also a correlation between paid internships and higher entry-level salaries. Yet only six in ten internships are paid.
HAVE YOUR RESUME READY
After you’ve determined your dream list of employers, it’s time to get your application materials in top shape, starting with your resume. Your resume should succinctly summarize your experience, including prior internships, jobs, academic credentials, and relevant extracurricular activities. It should not exceed one page. If your resume is longer, keep revising. The average recruiter spends less than 10 seconds reviewing a resume. You may have a million accolades, but the only ones that matter are the items that pertain to the application before you. As you read your resume, ask yourself: Does this bullet make it significantly more likely someone will hire me. You should update your resume with every application to reflect the keywords in the job description. Tools like Skillsyncer and Jobscan can help identify missing keywords so your resume doesn’t get buried in the applicant tracking system.
BE PREPARED FOR A INTERVIEW
Most employers require internship applicants to provide 2-3 references. Start collecting these names well in advance. Consider who will be able to speak to your personality, skills, and work ethic. Good references from teachers, professors, or previous employers are like gold in the quest for an internship. Some internships may also require applicants to provide a portfolio. This collection of your best, most relevant work provides companies with concrete evidence of your skills. A few fields that typically require a portfolio include graphic design, web development, writing, and marketing. Even for internships that don't require a portfolio, submitting this extra bit of proof of your talents can help you stand out. Consider highlighting projects relevant to the internship, and select a sample of your best work.
Securing an internship is a bit of a numbers game, the more places you apply, the better your chances. However, that shouldn’t keep you from doing your research on prospective employers. Your time is finite and you can only do so many internships–so make them count. Where you apply should depend on your career ambitions. Make a list of your favorite organizations or companies that reflect your interests and values. Explore websites like Glassdoor and Canary that have reviews from interns and fellows. Talk to your college career office and classmates to discover which employers have the best internship offerings.
You should also weigh other key factors like the location and compensation. While online internships offer great convenience, they also limit your ability to engage in the office culture and develop deeper relationships with potential mentors and future references. Moreover, whether an internship is paid or unpaid can significantly impact your experience. Studies have shown that paid internships have a greater chance of leading to full-time employment. There’s also a correlation between paid internships and higher entry-level salaries. Yet only six in ten internships are paid.
HAVE YOUR RESUME READY
After you’ve determined your dream list of employers, it’s time to get your application materials in top shape, starting with your resume. Your resume should succinctly summarize your experience, including prior internships, jobs, academic credentials, and relevant extracurricular activities. It should not exceed one page. If your resume is longer, keep revising. The average recruiter spends less than 10 seconds reviewing a resume. You may have a million accolades, but the only ones that matter are the items that pertain to the application before you. As you read your resume, ask yourself: Does this bullet make it significantly more likely someone will hire me. You should update your resume with every application to reflect the keywords in the job description. Tools like Skillsyncer and Jobscan can help identify missing keywords so your resume doesn’t get buried in the applicant tracking system.
BE PREPARED FOR A INTERVIEW
Most employers require internship applicants to provide 2-3 references. Start collecting these names well in advance. Consider who will be able to speak to your personality, skills, and work ethic. Good references from teachers, professors, or previous employers are like gold in the quest for an internship. Some internships may also require applicants to provide a portfolio. This collection of your best, most relevant work provides companies with concrete evidence of your skills. A few fields that typically require a portfolio include graphic design, web development, writing, and marketing. Even for internships that don't require a portfolio, submitting this extra bit of proof of your talents can help you stand out. Consider highlighting projects relevant to the internship, and select a sample of your best work.

James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian-Nutritionist & Software Developer since 1972 🡆 Optimization Of Human Performance
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Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
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James Constantine’s Answer
✫ Good Day Career Village Office Hours Staff!
Preparing for Graduation and Securing Internships
Graduating from college is a significant milestone, and preparing for the transition into the workforce, especially through internships, requires strategic planning. Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide on what you can do before graduating to enhance your internship applications and overall readiness for your career.
1. Refine Your Resume and Cover Letter
Your resume and cover letter are critical tools in your job search. Ensure that they are up-to-date, clearly formatted, and tailored to the types of internships you are applying for.
Resume: Highlight relevant coursework, projects, skills, and any previous work experience. Use action verbs to describe your accomplishments and quantify them where possible (e.g., “Increased social media engagement by 30%”).
Cover Letter: Personalize each cover letter for the specific internship. Research the company and mention why you are interested in that particular organization and how your skills align with their needs.
2. Build Your Professional Network
Networking is essential in today’s job market.
Connect with Alumni: Reach out to alumni from your college who are working in fields of interest. They can provide insights into their career paths and may even help you find internship opportunities.
Attend Networking Events: Participate in career fairs, workshops, or industry conferences related to your field. These events provide opportunities to meet potential employers and learn more about various companies.
3. Gain Relevant Experience
If you have time before graduation, consider gaining additional experience that can bolster your resume.
Volunteer or Part-Time Work: Look for volunteer opportunities or part-time jobs related to your field of study. This experience can demonstrate your commitment and passion for the industry.
Projects or Freelance Work: If applicable, take on freelance projects or personal initiatives that showcase your skills.
4. Prepare for Interviews
As you apply for internships, it’s crucial to prepare for interviews.
Mock Interviews: Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors to practice common interview questions and receive feedback on your responses.
Research Common Questions: Familiarize yourself with typical interview questions in your field (e.g., behavioral questions) and prepare thoughtful answers that reflect your experiences.
5. Leverage Online Platforms
Utilize online platforms to enhance your visibility to potential employers.
LinkedIn Profile: Ensure that your LinkedIn profile is complete and professional. Connect with classmates, professors, and industry professionals.
Job Boards: Regularly check job boards like Indeed, Glassdoor, or specialized sites related to your field for internship postings.
6. Seek Guidance from Career Services
Most colleges offer career services that can assist students in their job search efforts.
Career Counseling: Schedule appointments with career advisors who can provide personalized advice on resumes, cover letters, interview preparation, and job searching strategies.
Workshops: Attend workshops offered by career services on topics such as networking strategies or resume writing.
7. Stay Organized
Keep track of the internships you apply for:
Spreadsheet Tracking: Create a spreadsheet listing the internships you’re interested in along with application deadlines, required materials, contacts at the company (if any), and follow-up dates.
Follow Up: After submitting applications or attending interviews, send thank-you emails expressing appreciation for the opportunity.
By following these steps diligently before graduation, you will not only improve your chances of securing an internship but also position yourself favorably as you transition into full-time employment after college.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
1. National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE)
NACE provides comprehensive resources regarding best practices in career services including resume writing tips, networking strategies, and internship preparation guidelines tailored specifically for college students entering the workforce.
2. LinkedIn Learning
LinkedIn Learning offers a wide range of courses focused on professional development including resume building techniques, interview preparation strategies, and effective networking practices which are essential for students seeking internships.
3. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)
The BLS provides valuable data on employment trends across various industries which helps students understand what skills are currently in demand as well as insights into potential career paths post-graduation.
Probability the answer is correct: 95%
God Bless You All!
James Constantine, The Little Old Aussie Battler.
Preparing for Graduation and Securing Internships
Graduating from college is a significant milestone, and preparing for the transition into the workforce, especially through internships, requires strategic planning. Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide on what you can do before graduating to enhance your internship applications and overall readiness for your career.
1. Refine Your Resume and Cover Letter
Your resume and cover letter are critical tools in your job search. Ensure that they are up-to-date, clearly formatted, and tailored to the types of internships you are applying for.
Resume: Highlight relevant coursework, projects, skills, and any previous work experience. Use action verbs to describe your accomplishments and quantify them where possible (e.g., “Increased social media engagement by 30%”).
Cover Letter: Personalize each cover letter for the specific internship. Research the company and mention why you are interested in that particular organization and how your skills align with their needs.
2. Build Your Professional Network
Networking is essential in today’s job market.
Connect with Alumni: Reach out to alumni from your college who are working in fields of interest. They can provide insights into their career paths and may even help you find internship opportunities.
Attend Networking Events: Participate in career fairs, workshops, or industry conferences related to your field. These events provide opportunities to meet potential employers and learn more about various companies.
3. Gain Relevant Experience
If you have time before graduation, consider gaining additional experience that can bolster your resume.
Volunteer or Part-Time Work: Look for volunteer opportunities or part-time jobs related to your field of study. This experience can demonstrate your commitment and passion for the industry.
Projects or Freelance Work: If applicable, take on freelance projects or personal initiatives that showcase your skills.
4. Prepare for Interviews
As you apply for internships, it’s crucial to prepare for interviews.
Mock Interviews: Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors to practice common interview questions and receive feedback on your responses.
Research Common Questions: Familiarize yourself with typical interview questions in your field (e.g., behavioral questions) and prepare thoughtful answers that reflect your experiences.
5. Leverage Online Platforms
Utilize online platforms to enhance your visibility to potential employers.
LinkedIn Profile: Ensure that your LinkedIn profile is complete and professional. Connect with classmates, professors, and industry professionals.
Job Boards: Regularly check job boards like Indeed, Glassdoor, or specialized sites related to your field for internship postings.
6. Seek Guidance from Career Services
Most colleges offer career services that can assist students in their job search efforts.
Career Counseling: Schedule appointments with career advisors who can provide personalized advice on resumes, cover letters, interview preparation, and job searching strategies.
Workshops: Attend workshops offered by career services on topics such as networking strategies or resume writing.
7. Stay Organized
Keep track of the internships you apply for:
Spreadsheet Tracking: Create a spreadsheet listing the internships you’re interested in along with application deadlines, required materials, contacts at the company (if any), and follow-up dates.
Follow Up: After submitting applications or attending interviews, send thank-you emails expressing appreciation for the opportunity.
By following these steps diligently before graduation, you will not only improve your chances of securing an internship but also position yourself favorably as you transition into full-time employment after college.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
1. National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE)
NACE provides comprehensive resources regarding best practices in career services including resume writing tips, networking strategies, and internship preparation guidelines tailored specifically for college students entering the workforce.
2. LinkedIn Learning
LinkedIn Learning offers a wide range of courses focused on professional development including resume building techniques, interview preparation strategies, and effective networking practices which are essential for students seeking internships.
3. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)
The BLS provides valuable data on employment trends across various industries which helps students understand what skills are currently in demand as well as insights into potential career paths post-graduation.
Probability the answer is correct: 95%
God Bless You All!
James Constantine, The Little Old Aussie Battler.
Updated
Jerome’s Answer
You could start building your online presence as well. Set up your LinkedIn and start building it out. Add professors and ask for referrals and references.
You should join clubs at school. Great way to build your list of connections and increase your visibility. You could also pre-connect with your alumni association for help. They are there to help you find success post graduation.
You should join clubs at school. Great way to build your list of connections and increase your visibility. You could also pre-connect with your alumni association for help. They are there to help you find success post graduation.
Updated
TRAVIS’s Answer
Find a professor with industry connections. Some professors have only academic experience. Locate the ones that still have industry experience and ask them what they would do in your situation. Start building up your resume and linkedin profile. You may not have much work experience but include class projects and specific courses that you are proud of. Even if your work experience is not industry related, include it. Work on your interview skills. Look up the STAR interview method. That is an excellent way to practice. Be on the lookout for career days and if employers are visiting your campus soon. Good luck, you will do well.