Internship Tips
This week’s blog topic for my Public Relations Practicum class is Internship advice. I think that this is a good topic because many of the students in this class have already interned or are about to begin applying for intern positions. Those that have already had internships can share their experience with those that haven’t yet. They can help them to have a better understanding of what to expect and how to prepare.
Since I haven’t held an internship position yet, I searched online for internship advice. The first site I looked at was: http://www.groovejob.com/resources/internship/importance/.
This article begins by stating how hard it is for new graduates to get good jobs once they are directly out of college. They say that it isn’t which university you graduated from, but what actual real world experience you have. Their advice on how to get this experience? Get an internship. Internships are the best way for college students to gain actual experience. An internship will provide insight into a real work environment. Now that I have highlighted the importance of an internship, I looked at http://www.magicpotofjobs.com/2009/03/24/internship-advice/. for information about how to get an internship. This article suggested that the best time of the ear to look for an internship is during the “off” season. This is the time when there is not a break in school, such as summer. Times during student beaks are the most competitive times to try and get an internship. So if you are wishing to intern during this time, you should start applying early. The article mentioned that you should go to the career services office at your school or someone that can help provide you with a list of companies which are looking for interns. These companies are usually looking for college students and sometimes have more than one intern position they are trying to fill.
After scouting out possible internships, it is time for you to start researching the companies you are interested in applying for. If you are fortunate enough to get an internship interview then you want to know background information about the company. This way you can ask your interviewer in specific questions. This will show that you have taken the initiative to research prior to getting the position. Prior research may also be able to help you understand what will be expected of you if you are hired, it can also help you decide where you want to apply. Once deciding where you want to apply, you should have someone (an advisor, career services, etc.), assist you in creating a resume and cover letter which are geared toward the particular internship you are applying for. After you have applied, you should begin preparing for the interview hopefully to follow.
Make sure you are well prepared before you step into an interview. If you do not make a good impression during your interview, then you might not get the internship. Remember to research the company prior to the interview and dress appropriately. For more advice on how to prepare for an interview you can view some of my previous blogs.
Jhenry's PR Blog 
Leave a comment