Now that Spring semester is in full swing, I have begun the daunting yet exciting search for a summer internship. Through my research and experience, I have found many resources that can help students find their dream internship whether that be with a lab, startup, or Fortune 500 company. Below are my top 5 resources!
Handshake is an online resource that helps college students find jobs and internships. While I was first intimated by the website, I spent some time poking around this past week. By adding my interest, graduation year, and GPA, I was able to find many internships that I am qualified for in various employment industries. By clicking the “favorite” button for an internship that I want to apply for, I receive an email reminding me to apply and of the application’s due date.
Scripps CP&R has numerous resources to help students throughout any stage of the internship process. This past December, I attended a workshop on how to apply for Internship Grants through CP&R. Valinda, a member of the CP&R staff, guided the attendees through the application process and answered any of our questions. In addition, I have found the one-on-one meetings with CP&R staff to be very helpful. They can assist students with resumes, internship searches, and career searches. You can use CP&R drop in hours M-F 10am – 5pm without an appointment or simply schedule a one on one appointment with a counselor for a time that works for your schedule on Handshake!
Similar to Handshake, Glassdoor is a free online resource where students and adults can search for jobs and internships. The website has endless internship and job listings that it is almost overwhelming. Many large corporations such as L’Oréal, Spotify, and Red Bull have internships listed on Glassdoor as well. The application process varies by position but Glassdoor always redirects you to a website where you can apply.
- Contacting Local Businesses
This past summer, I knew I wanted to do something creative and productive. Because of my interest in photography, I decided to contact several local photographers to see how I could be of assistance to their company. I spoke with several photographers and loved hearing about their experience and their businesses. I ultimately decided to intern with Du Soleil Photographie in West Chester, PA as I really bonded with the owner and loved her photography style. I had a great experience with her and gained a lot of insight on what it’s like to run a local business. I strongly recommend contacting local businesses for summer internships opportunities!
- Family
Although family events can be boring, try to spice them up by networking. Who knows, your uncle may know someone who works in the same lab you would love to intern at or your cousin may be working for a chic startup.
What internships resources have you found to be helpful?