In today’s competitive job market, internship experience is becoming a requirement for aspiring young professionals. An internship can help you improve your professional development, hone your skills and better understand your career goals. In addition, gaining this type of experience and skills can strengthen your resume for future opportunities. According to 2023 research from Zippia, many recent college graduates who finish an internship receive a full-time job offer after graduation. 

Ahead, we discuss how to get an internship in seven steps. We also cover the benefits, qualifications you may need and where to find internship opportunities. 

What Are the Benefits of Internships?

Internships are beneficial career training opportunities that can help you gain experience outside the classroom or when you change careers. They can also expose you to industries you may not have considered for your future. 

Understanding the benefits of an internship can inspire you to search for opportunities or decide if it is a good choice for your career path. Some benefits of an internship include:

• Getting to know your career: An internship can help you learn about your field and decide if it is something you want to pursue.
• Increasing your professional experience: Internships can help you obtain the experience you need to fill gaps in your knowledge and skills. For example, you can learn how businesses run in your field, participate in meetings, take on new tasks and network. You will also have the chance to apply what you have learned in college courses.
• Strengthening your resume: Gaining internship experience can enhance your resume. It can also show future employers you have the skills to succeed in the industry.
• Meeting mentors: Having a mentor during your internship allows you to discuss your goals, learn new skills and work on client projects with a professional who knows the industry.
• Earning college credits: Some internships count as college credit, providing you with work experience as you complete institutional requirements for your degree. To get college credits, you typically must work a minimum number of hours to complete the internship.

What Qualifications Do You Need For an Internship?

Employers may look for specific qualifications when you apply for an internship. These may include:

• GPA
• Proficiency in industry- and organization-related programs and technologies 
• Relationship to your major or minor
• Previous volunteer experience
• Competencies such as strong analytical skills and detail orientation

When To Apply for Internships

Check interview listings for application deadlines, and make sure you submit your application early, preferably well before the deadline.

How Long Are Internships?

Internship lengths can vary depending on many factors, including the organization and role being offered. They can last anywhere from a few weeks to a semester to one year. 

How To Find an Internship in 7 Steps

When you start looking for an internship, consider what opportunities you want. It may help to identify your career goals, interests and whether you want a part-time or full-time position.

1. Research Internship Opportunities

The best way to find internship opportunities that work for you is by researching. Start by researching companies, organizations or institutions that align with your interests, major, degree or work experience. Then, find out if these organizations offer internships that align with school breaks or any other time off. If you find internships that satisfy your needs, look up what their internship requirements are and how to apply.

You can also find opportunities through online job boards, company websites, job fairs and school networking events. However, opportunities can arise from anywhere, so while you are exploring, it’s essential that you remain open to all possibilities.

2. Create a Resume and Cover Letter

Once you have found the internships you want to apply for, the next step is to create a resume that will get you noticed. If you have a resume, update it to reflect new experience you may have.

When you create a resume, you will want to make it professional, clean, concise and easy to read. It is also important to showcase your experiences, skills and knowledge. This should include the experience you gained through volunteering or extracurricular activities. This experience may also include information about another job you have had in a different industry. It is critical to tailor your resume to match the needs of the positions you are applying for.

In addition to a resume, you will likely need to submit a cover letter. A cover letter is a one-page document that typically accompanies your resume. In this letter, you will have the chance to highlight more information about your skills and experiences related to the opportunity. 

Use this letter as a chance to voice why you are interested in working at the organization and how you would be an asset to their operations. Personalize your cover letter with information about the organization to show that you have researched the company and have considered how your skills match the opportunity. If you are in a field such as writing or designing, it might be advantageous for you to create a digital portfolio to show examples of your work.

3. Consider Getting Letters of Recommendation

Internship applications sometimes require one or more letters of recommendation from former employers, professors or mentors. In this situation, be strategic about who you ask. Your references should know your strengths and be able to explain why you are a good fit for the organization you are applying to. Be sure to get permission before you list people as references to ensure they agree to recommend you. If they agree, give them plenty of time to craft a thoughtful letter on your behalf. 

4. Apply to the Position

After preparing the documentation, apply for the internships you are interested in pursuing. This may be through email, an online portal or career-related platforms like LinkedIn. If you do not already have an email address that includes your first and last name, you will want to create one to apply for these roles. 

While applying, read all instructions carefully and follow them accordingly to ensure your application is complete and error-free. Aside from that, you will also want to customize your application for each internship since each position may require a different element of your skill set.

5. Research the Company

If you get a positive response to an application, research the organization further. Investigate its website, recent news articles and social media posts. Familiarize yourself with the company’s mission to better understand its priorities and values. Researching the organization can also help you craft a list of questions to ask in your interview. By asking questions about the organization, you will show you are prepared and enthusiastic.

6. Plan for the Interview

Use the information you have gathered to prepare for the interview. Research possible interview questions and practice answering them with a friend, coach or mentor. As you prepare, consider ways to incorporate the company’s values, mission statement and priorities in your answers.

If the interview is in a physical location, plan your travel route and time so you arrive early. If the interview is virtual, set up your computer and workspace early to avoid technical issues. Wear professional clothing and arrive early enough to mentally prepare for the conversation. 

7. Follow Up With the Interviewer

After the interview, send a thank you note via email to the interviewer within 24 hours of your meeting. In your note, express your appreciation for their time and reemphasize your interest in the opportunity. Include what you enjoyed about the interview and why the interview helped reaffirm that you would be a good fit. This gesture can help set you apart from the other candidates and leave a good impression.

Where To Find Internships

Besides the places mentioned above, you can check websites like Glassdoor for internship opportunities. You will also want to do a general Google search, review social media platforms like LinkedIn, reach out to your current network and utilize your college’s career center. In addition, you can check online internship directories. 

Organizations like Fund II Foundation’s internXL program offer STEM- and business-related paid internships and brings diversity, inclusion and efficiency to the internship matching process. The program also offers free career readiness training, certifications and mentorship opportunities.

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