Look for Internships

The other day, another student told me about his job prospects after graduation. A soon-to-be graduate, he’s had a job lined up since the summer. I thought: how’d he acquire a job nearly a year before graduating? Deeper into the conversation, he said it’s the same job he interned with. He impressed so much on his internship that the company decided to hold him a spot.

Students, apply for internships. You never know what they’ll lead to, as illustrated in my example. Apply for internships that correspond with your post-college desires. You’ll gain the experience necessary to attract employers. If the internship doesn’t keep you full-time, someone else will notice in your resume.

The job market is competitive. Internships will give you a “leg-up” on others. Speaking of the job market, don’t become discouraged if an internship doesn’t accept you. Also, don’t let others’ success prevent you from continuously applying.

It’s one thing to learn about a field in the classroom. It’s another thing to experience it in a job-setting. Internships will prevent you from becoming overwhelmed when you acquire a full-time job. You’ll already be familiar with how things work. It allows you to determine whether or not you want to pursue a particular field. A good thing about internships: they won’t make-or-break you.

When applying for internships, don’t wait to the last minute. It’s astonishing how students believe they’ll be hired a month before the summer. Before applying, research the company. Observe their motto and way of doing business. If you don’t like what they’re about, don’t waste your time submitting an application.

Once you obtain an internship, don’t be satisfied. Work hard and leave a lasting impression on the boss. Don’t approach it as a “job”. View it as a hobby. Love what you do.

Observe how others conduct themselves on the job. Find someone you can connect with and build on that relationship. Ask a lot of questions. Employees know you’re new to the job, so they won’t think you’re slow. It’s better to make a mistake trying to do the right thing as opposed to not knowing what you’re doing.

It’s important to use the principles learned in class. Internships want smart individuals, so act like one. Show employers you belong by displaying confidence. However, be careful in this aspect. Don’t show arrogance by thinking you know everything.

While working, keep in touch with your boss. Ask what you’re doing right and wrong. Make improvements while you have the chance. Show your interest is the company’s best interest.