Hello students! While the semester is winding down for the year, it’s a great time to revv up your 2024 internship search. Many employers start to look for interns about six months before they need them. A proactive mindset will help you get ahead of the competition. Even if you lack a definitive vision for your career, you can still explore options and career fields and prepare for internships and careers now. In fact, internships are a great way to explore what different careers actually feel like. Use this time of year to get focused and begin mapping your internship search for next year with the process below.

Determine Your Direction

1. Take time for some self-reflection. What are your career interests? Why are you interested in these fields or industries? What do you like to DO?

2. Research internships in your desired field using a job board of choice (Your college career center can also help with this process.) 

3. List company deadlines and desired candidate skills or traits. Research trends and information about the field you are interested in. This will help you tailor your application materials.

4. If you are unsure of your precise direction, your college career center can be a resource to help you identify your talents, potential paths and in-demand careers. As U.S. News & World Report explains, "The key is to leverage the career center to learn more about yourself, your interests and to increase knowledge about possible options for the future." Also, college career centers often already have connections with employers who may have internships in your desired field available.

Position Yourself for Success

1. Brainstorm and list your qualifications. Pull from previous work experience, organizations, volunteer experience, certificates, credentials, and your soft skills.

2. If you have time, volunteer for an organization that will allow you to gain some of the company's desired skills.

3. Craft or improve your resume for the specific internship in which you are applying. Use this 3-pronged approach to writing a cover letter.  Many college career centers can help you revise your materials.

4. Tap into your Career Advisory Board (C.A.B.) for insights, support and contacts.

Sprint to Success

1. Apply early. Let your application be one of the first to impress the selection committee.

2. Prepare for interviews. Career centers often offer mock interview sessions. To impress the hiring committee, you can also plan your interview questions before the job interview. If you have some experience in the field, be prepared to share outstanding observable outcomes during the interviews.

3. Seek Feedback. Be gracious and thank the interviewer for the opportunity. Check out this list of ways to ask for feedback after receiving a rejection. 

4. Be positive and press on. Some internships are offered during both semesters and the summer. Dust yourself off and try again. 

Get Free Resume Feedback from Certified Career Coaches and Recruiters.

If you’re tired of not landing more job or internship interviews, upload your resume to The HBCU Career Center job board take your resume to the next level today.

Our free resume feedback service will show you:

• How to make your resume stand out

• How to effectively explain your value to employers

• How to make sure your resume is compatible with employer technology

• How to format your resume correctly