Summer Internships

Get a jump start on establishing your career by applying for summer internships in your field of choice. While most student internships are based on college credit, there’s been a growing number of companies offering paid internship positions. The most valuable compensation, however, are the professional skills and real-life work experience you will acquire. Since college internships typically run a few months during the summer, maximize your time by taking advantage of the following opportunities:

Developing Professional Skills

Step out of the comfort zone of the classroom to gain an on-the-job education to help build your resume. By exploring new educational avenues, you will gain experience on how to interact with coworkers, supervisors, and clients. If it’s your first time working in an office environment, try your best to learn the ropes and always remember to ask questions. Internships will help develop your time management, organization, and leadership skills. These transferable skills will give you the hands-on practice and self-confidence for future job interviews.

Opportunity to Network

Summer internships will introduce you to other students and educated professionals who share similar interests. This a great way to make new acquaintances as you develop your career. After your internship has concluded, make a point to reconnect with your fellow peers. They even might become future colleagues! Your internship experience will be a valuable asset when applying to entry-level positions. By networking, you can get your foot in the door at a potential company. Prospective employers may even recommend you for unadvertised job opportunities. Make sure to obtain good references from your internship supervisor for future job prospects.

Determining Your Career Path

If you’re unsure about your choice of major, an internship will give you insight into whether this is the right career path for you. By getting a taste of the industry from a real-world perspective, you can make an informed decision on whether you should continue obtaining a degree in the field. Save yourself valuable time and financial distress by learning first-hand about your future career.