Can I get an internship as a sophomore?

Hi Kimberly! It is great that you are being proactive about getting an internship early on during your college years. My first two internships in college were during my sophomore year; and although they were not with big companies, I obtained valuable experience that helped me land internships with major companies later on in college. Start with recruiting fairs, the career centers, and Linkedin search. Most importantly, make sure you apply. Even if you feel like you have no shot at getting the internship, there is no harm in trying. You can obtain valuable interview experience, and maybe even land the gig!

Kimberly, I would recommend volunteering as a starting point, particularly since you're still exploring areas of interest. Non-profits and community organizations are a great place to plug in as they always need an extra set of hands. Volunteer to help in their marketing department/area. This will get you a foot in the door somewhere, help you start exploring the work to see what you like and what you don't like, will give you relevant experience for your resume and if they like you, you'll have a leg up on any internships that become available. Your career center should be able to help you narrow your focus on organizations that fit your interest profile. Good luck!

Yes,yes,yes! You can and should get an internship as a sophomore, the earlier the better in my experience. I had three internships throughout my time in college and they were by far the best experiences of my four years. Not only do they provide great material for your resume and for you to discuss during a job interview, but they provide you with opportunities to explore potential career interests and career paths.

Its great that you are thinking about internships so early on and that you recognize their value, that's a huge step; many students your age don't fully realize that four years is pretty quick and that internships are often a requirement for landing a job after graduation. Your college's student career office should have a job board and/or career guidance counselors whose job it is to help you apply for, find, and get internships and jobs. I would start there, and if that doesn't work, asking a professor or a friend for any leads never hurts.

A friendly piece of advice, don't stop interning after you get your first one; I had a few friends who thought that one high-profile internship was enough and they were sorely mistaken. Intern every summer that you can and if it works with your schedule and commitments, attempt to intern during the academic year. It may be a lot of work, but landing the job of your dreams is worth all the work!!