Finding Internships

Finding an internship is exactly like job hunting. Both require time, effort, and professionalism. When pursuing an internship, remember these steps:

1. Plan Ahead

To maximize your chances of obtaining the internship that you want, you must plan and carry out an organized search.

• Consider the basic requirements
• Consider what you have to offer an organization
• List your goals & expectations

Meet with an OCS Counselor to plan your search (call x. 5242 for an appointment)

2. Get Your Résumé Ready

For nearly every internship application, you will need a professional résumé.

• Check the OCS Website for information and examples of résumés and cover letters
• Write a draft of your résumé or update your existing one and draft a cover letter
• Make an appointment with an OCS Counselor (x. 5242) for a résumé and cover letter review

3. Pursue Advertised Internships

There are two avenues to search for internship opportunities: applying for advertised internship positions and creating internship opportunities that didn’t exist before. Pursue both avenues to the fullest! Consider all your options. Even if an internship doesn’t appear to meet all of your criteria, it may still be worth investigating.

• Internship Search Checklist

4. Create Your Own Internship

Pursue internship leads to identify organizations and businesses where you could get the internship experience that you seek.

• Internship Creation Guide

5. Prepare for Interviews

Complete a mock interview with an OCS Counselor (call x. 5242 to schedule).

Research the organization and prepare questions for your interview. Learn what kind of job you might be able to do for the employer. Know why you want to work there.

6. Report Back!

Please take a few moments to fill out this short survey to let us know a little about your internship.

• Internship Report Form