True entry level jobs (those that require no experience) are getting harder and harder to find. And even if a job requires no experience, a candidate with experience is usually preferred over an inexperienced applicant. Even if you have the knowledge and skills to perform the duties listed on the job description, employers want experience because they don’t want to invest in training. A solution to this problem is to gain experience through an internship. Although some internships require experience (!), most don’t (yet). One of your key goals in college should be to get as much internship experience as you can before graduation.
Some great resources for finding internships:
Your College Career Center
The place to start when looking for an internship is your campus career center. Most career centers will have internship listings along with regular job listings. Your college may also offer formal internship programs that help students balance school work with internship responsibilities. Talk with a career counselor or career center staff member about your internship options.
Federal Government
The federal government offers internship opportunities, which can be found at Usajobs.gov/StudentsAndGrads. Government jobs are often overlooked by students, but they are great option to consider if you’re looking for security.
CDS International
For students interested in travel or working abroad, CDS International is a great resource for finding international internships. CDS international is a non-profit organization offering professional work internships, exchange programs, study tours, seminars, and cultural training. Find internships in Spain, Germany, Argentina, Switzerland, and the USA.
Intern Web
If you’re looking for a large selection of quality internships in a variety of locations, Intern Web is a site to visit. New internships are added daily, so be sure to search the site regularly or follow them on Twitter.
Urban Interns
Urban Interns connects businesses with internship- and part-time job-seekers. You can search for jobs by industry, skills, hours and/or city. Cities covered include New York, Boston, Chicago, and Washington, DC. You’ll find internships in performing arts, public relations, event planning, and many other industries. A perfect site for students and recent graduates.
Even as a new graduate, you’ll be expected to have experience. How is that possible, when balancing demanding course load? Get a summer internship (most large corporations offer summer internships), participate in a formal internship program at your university (these programs help schedule your classes around an internship), or take a semester off to participate in an internship. Not only will internships help you obtain relevant experience, but they may also help you decide if the career path you’ve chosen is right for you. The Intern Files: How to Get, Keep, and Make the Most of Your Internship