10 Sincere Internship Application Tips To Consider

Applying for internships can be stressful, but as long as you have a plan of action, you can alleviate some of that uncertainty. I’m sharing my honest, personal application experience that will hopefully benefit you while undergoing the process. Here are 10 Sincere Internship Application Tips To Consider.

Table of Contents

Internship Tips

Network

Internships provide real job experience at reputable companies where you can network and learn from professionals in your field. Spend time getting to know your co-workers, employer, and other mentors at your place of work. If you’re struggling to find an internship, reach out to your peers, professors, past employers, etc., for assistance.

Apply Early

It may seem early, but if you can start giving the internship some thought during your freshman or sophomore year of college, you will feel more prepared as you enter your upperclassmen years. If you’re considering applying for a summer position, anytime from December-February is the best to start looking in case roles have early application deadlines.

Utilize University Resources

Most colleges and universities offer some form of assistance when applying for internships. Advisors offer experienced insight and can recommend positions you may not have previously considered. Besides an internship office, your advisors may be just as helpful.

Update Your Resume & Cover Letter

Your resume and cover letter are important when applying to internships. I recommend making an appointment with an advisor or a professional skilled in formatting resumes and cover letters. Since this is one of the first things you will want to get sorted out before applying anywhere, it is also something you should complete as soon as possible. The cover letter also provides an opportunity to express your interest in the position and your knowledge of the employer. Customizing your cover letter for each application is encouraged.

Create a LinkedIn Account

Create a professional LinkedIn account you can use to network and find an internship. Some employers request you share your LinkedIn account with them, while others like to put a name to a face and view your resume.

Apply to Several Positions

Taking risks by applying to competitive roles is a part of the process. However, obtaining an internship is tricky, and there will be competition. Don’t be discouraged if you don’t hear back from your top employer. Instead, have other options available to you.

Consider Unpaid Roles

While you may have your heart set on a paid position, it is okay to accept an unpaid one if you can manage it for a semester or so to improve your skills.

Attend Job/Career Fairs

Most colleges and universities offer a job or career fair at the beginning of every semester. Representatives from different employers will attend these fairs and offer internships for designated semesters. This is a great way to network and learn about available positions.

Pitch Yourself

Not all companies post their internship positions online. Sometimes, a professional email to the right person will score an opportunity. Send out your resume, a cover letter, and samples of your work to people at your intended place of work, and see what happens.

Showcase Your Knowledge

Your passion for your field and the time you spent researching the position will be evident to the person reviewing your application. Refresh yourself on the job you’re applying for, the person interviewing you, and any skills or past experiences you want to highlight.

Thanks for reading, and good luck with your job search!