How to Land Your First Internship: A Step-by-Step Guide

  • Internships and Co-op
  • Published on June 3

*Updated June 3, 2024. Originally posted April 23, 2024.

Introduction: Your Pathway to Professional Experience

Securing your first internship is a significant step toward building your career. Internships offer invaluable workplace exposure and professional experience, but finding and landing the right one can seem overwhelming. This comprehensive guide will simplify the process, helping you secure your first internship with clear, actionable steps.

Step 1: Define Your Goals

Identifying Your Career Interests

Start by defining what you hope to achieve from an internship. Are you looking to gain specific skills, or are you exploring various career paths? Understanding your career goals will help you target internships that align with your aspirations.

Example: If you're studying marketing, you might look for internships that offer experience in social media management, content creation, or market research.

Step 2: Research Potential Opportunities

Finding the Right Fit

Use job boards, company websites, and professional networks like Hired Fresh to find internship opportunities. Focus on industries and roles that interest you. Don't forget to leverage your university's career center and alumni network, as they can provide tailored guidance and exclusive job listings.

Example: If you're interested in environmental science, check out organizations like the Environmental Defense Fund or local government agencies that offer relevant internships.

Step 3: Prepare Your Application Materials

Crafting a Winning Resume and Cover Letter

Your resume should highlight your academic achievements, relevant coursework, and any applicable experience like volunteer work or projects. Use bullet points for clarity and focus on accomplishments. For your cover letter, personalize it for each application. Explain why you’re interested in the specific internship and how your background makes you a suitable candidate.

Example: If applying for a graphic design internship, include a link to your portfolio and mention specific design tools you’re proficient with, such as Adobe Creative Suite.

Step 4: Apply Strategically

Sending Out Your Applications

Once your materials are ready, apply to multiple internships that interest you. Tailor each application to the job description, emphasizing how your skills and experiences meet the requirements listed by the employer. Keep a spreadsheet to track your applications, deadlines, and responses.

Example: If the internship requires strong research skills, highlight your relevant coursework and any research projects you’ve completed.

Step 5: Practice Interview Skills

Getting Ready to Impress

Prepare for potential interviews by practicing your responses to common interview questions. Consider doing mock interviews with friends, mentors, or career services to build your confidence. Research the company’s culture, mission, and recent news to tailor your answers and show genuine interest.

Example: If interviewing with a tech startup, be ready to discuss how you stay updated on industry trends and your familiarity with agile methodologies.

Step 6: Follow Up

Maintaining Professionalism After Applying

After each interview, send a thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity to interview and reiterate your interest in the position. If you haven’t heard back within a week or two, it’s appropriate to send a polite follow-up email to inquire about the status of your application.

Example: Your follow-up email can briefly restate your enthusiasm for the role and mention a specific topic discussed during the interview that reinforced your interest.

Additional Resources

Tools and Websites to Aid Your Search

  1. Hired Fresh: Use our platform to discover curated internship opportunities tailored for students and recent graduates.
  2. LinkedIn: Build your professional network and search for internships. Join relevant groups and follow companies of interest.
  3. Glassdoor: Read reviews and research company culture to find the right fit.
  4. Indeed: A comprehensive job board with numerous internship listings.
  5. University Career Services: Take advantage of the resources and guidance offered by your school’s career center.
  6. Professional Associations: Join associations related to your field of study, such as the American Marketing Association or the National Society of Professional Engineers, which often post internships.

Helpful Articles and Guides

Conclusion: Embark on Your Professional Journey

Landing your first internship might require persistence and effort, but the experience you gain is invaluable. With these steps, you're equipped to navigate the internship application process effectively. Remember, each application is a learning opportunity that brings you closer to your professional goals. Keep refining your approach, seeking feedback, and embracing new opportunities as they come.

By following these steps and utilizing the provided resources, you're well on your way to securing an internship that will help you build a strong foundation for your career. Good luck!