Find Internships – High School and College Students

Internship Finder Service

Finding an internship can be an important step in getting into the college of your choice or starting your career. Internships are excellent for gaining hands-on experience, networking, and making professional connections. Here’s a detailed guide on how to find an internship:

1. Start Early

Research Timelines: Many companies open their internship applications months in advance (typically in the fall or early spring for summer internships). It’s important to give yourself enough time to find and apply to opportunities.
Set Realistic Goals: Determine what industries or roles you are interested in. If you’re not sure, explore different fields and research common job descriptions for entry-level positions.

2. Build a Strong Resume & Cover Letter

Resume: Focus on relevant skills, coursework, and any volunteer or part-time work experience you’ve done. Tailor your resume to each internship by highlighting the skills and experiences that match the job description.
Cover Letter: Write a personalized cover letter for each application. Show enthusiasm for the company and explain how your skills and goals align with the internship. Make it clear why you’re interested in working there and what you hope to learn.

3. Use Career Services at Your School

Career Center: Most high schools, colleges and universities have career services or internship offices. They can provide resources like resume reviews, interview preparation, job boards, and internship listings specifically for students.
Job Fairs & Events: Attend internship fairs and networking events hosted by your school. These are great opportunities to meet recruiters and learn about openings.
On-Campus Recruitment: Some companies conduct recruitment specifically at colleges and universities. Stay informed about any opportunities your school may have for on-campus interviews or internship sign-ups.

4. Search Online

General Job Boards: Websites like LinkedIn, Indeed, and Glassdoor have dedicated sections for internships. Filter your search by “internships” and tailor it to your specific field or location.
Internship Platforms: There are also platforms dedicated to internships, such as:
- WayUp
- Handshake (commonly used by universities)
Company Websites: Many companies post internship opportunities directly on their career pages. If there’s a specific company you’re interested in, it’s worth checking their website regularly for new openings.

5. Network

LinkedIn: Create a professional LinkedIn profile and connect with alumni, professors, and industry professionals. Networking can often lead to internship opportunities that aren’t posted publicly.
Alumni Network: Many high schools, colleges and universities have alumni networks that are willing to offer guidance or internship leads. Reach out to your school’s alumni office to inquire.
Social Media & Forums: Join relevant groups and online communities (like Facebook) focused on internships and career advice. These can help you learn about hidden opportunities.

6. Leverage Professors and Classmates

Professors: Many professors have industry connections and can recommend you for internships. Don’t hesitate to ask them if they know of any opportunities in your field.
Classmates: Talk to other students who have done internships and ask for recommendations or tips. Your peers might know of openings or provide insights into where to look.

7. Cold-Emailing

If you’ve identified companies you’re interested in but don’t see an internship listed, consider reaching out directly via email. Express your interest, introduce yourself, and ask if they offer internships or know of any opportunities.
Keep your email brief but professional. Mention your skills, experience and interests, and explain why you want to intern with their company.

8. Internship Programs or Agencies

Some agencies or companies offer structured internship programs that involve placement across different industries. These can be an excellent way to gain experience if you’re uncertain about your specific career path.
Programs like Summer Associate Programs, Fellowships, or Co-op Programs are structured internships that often come with additional mentorship and development opportunities.

9. Prepare for Interviews

Interview Preparation: Once you get interview invites, make sure to prepare. Research the company, understand the role, and have examples of your skills and experiences ready to discuss.
Practice: Conduct mock interviews with a career counselor or a friend to get comfortable answering common questions and articulating your skills.

10. Follow Up

After submitting your applications or having interviews, always send a thank-you email. This shows professionalism and can help you stand out from other candidates.
If you don’t hear back after a couple of weeks, you can follow up politely to check on the status of your application.

Additional Tips:

Be Open-Minded: Consider unpaid internships, especially if they offer great experience or networking opportunities.
Target Smaller Companies: Don’t overlook small businesses or startups—they can offer valuable hands-on experience, and you may have more direct interaction with senior team members.
Stay Organized: Keep track of the applications you’ve submitted, deadlines, and any responses you’ve received.

By following these steps, you should be able to navigate the process of finding an internship with confidence.

Popular Internship Career Areas

Internships are a great way to gain hands-on experience in various industries and career fields. Here are detailed descriptions of popular internship career areas:

1. Marketing and Communications Internships

Role Overview: Interns in marketing and communications support promotional activities, social media management, content creation, and market research. They often assist in the development of marketing campaigns, analyzing consumer behavior, and producing reports.
Key Responsibilities:
- Writing and editing content (blogs, newsletters, press releases).
- Assisting with social media strategy and analytics.
- Helping organize events or product launches.
- Conducting market research and competitor analysis.
Skills Developed: Communication, creativity, digital marketing tools (e.g., Google Analytics, SEO), content creation, and project management.

2. Finance and Accounting Internships

Role Overview: Interns in finance and accounting work with financial data, assist with budgeting, financial modeling, auditing, and accounting tasks. They often support the analysis of financial statements or assist in preparing tax returns.
Key Responsibilities:
- Assisting in preparing financial reports and forecasts.
- Analyzing financial data and trends.
- Reconciliation of accounts and bank statements.
- Conducting audits or supporting auditing activities.
Skills Developed: Analytical thinking, proficiency with financial software (e.g., QuickBooks, Excel), understanding of financial regulations, and attention to detail.

3. Technology and Software Engineering Internships

Role Overview: These internships provide experience in coding, software development, IT support, and systems analysis. Interns might work on developing applications, troubleshooting technical issues, or assisting in network management.
Key Responsibilities:
- Writing, testing, and debugging code.
- Assisting in database management or software development lifecycle.
- Researching emerging technologies or tools.
- Providing technical support or troubleshooting.
Skills Developed: Programming languages (e.g., Python, Java, C++), problem-solving, software development methodologies (e.g., Agile), and teamwork.

4. Human Resources (HR) Internships

Role Overview: Interns in HR assist with recruitment, employee engagement, onboarding, and maintaining employee records. They also help with organizing training programs and managing benefits.
Key Responsibilities:
- Assisting in posting job openings and reviewing resumes.
- Organizing interviews and communicating with candidates.
- Supporting onboarding processes for new employees.
- Assisting with employee engagement initiatives or training programs.
Skills Developed: Communication, interpersonal skills, understanding of labor laws, recruiting, and organizational skills.

5. Public Relations (PR) Internships

Role Overview: PR interns work on maintaining a positive public image for companies or clients. They may assist in crafting press releases, preparing media kits, and organizing press conferences.
Key Responsibilities:
- Drafting press releases and media communications.
- Assisting in managing social media accounts and campaigns.
- Researching and pitching stories to journalists.
- Monitoring media coverage and preparing reports.
Skills Developed: Writing, public speaking, media relations, crisis management, and social media expertise.

6. Healthcare and Medical Internships

Role Overview: Interns in healthcare fields (e.g., nursing, pharmacy, or medical research) may assist in patient care, research projects, lab tests, or administrative tasks in medical offices.
Key Responsibilities:
- Assisting healthcare professionals with patient care.
- Conducting lab tests or assisting in medical research.
- Administering basic clinical tasks (under supervision).
- Supporting administrative work, like managing patient files.
Skills Developed: Medical terminology, clinical procedures, patient interaction, research methods, and problem-solving.

7. Law Internships

Role Overview: Legal interns assist law firms or corporate legal departments with research, case preparation, document review, and legal writing. They may work with attorneys on litigation or contracts.
Key Responsibilities:
- Conducting legal research for ongoing cases.
- Drafting legal documents and contracts.
- Assisting in client meetings and case prep.
- Filing and organizing legal documentation.
Skills Developed: Legal research, writing, understanding of law practices, attention to detail, and analytical thinking.

8. Media and Journalism Internships

Role Overview: Journalism interns gain hands-on experience in reporting, writing articles, editing content, and conducting interviews for print, digital, or broadcast media.
Key Responsibilities:
- Writing articles, news pieces, or blogs.
- Conducting interviews and gathering information.
- Editing video or written content.
- Assisting with research for stories or investigative reports.
Skills Developed: Writing, reporting, editing, storytelling, multimedia skills, and deadlines.

9. Engineering Internships

Role Overview: Interns in engineering fields (civil, mechanical, electrical, etc.) assist with design, development, testing, and quality assurance of engineering products or systems.
Key Responsibilities:
- Assisting with design drafts or prototypes.
- Conducting testing or simulations.
- Preparing technical reports and presentations.
- Supporting project management in technical aspects.
Skills Developed: Technical skills in design and analysis, CAD software, project management, problem-solving, and teamwork.

10. Nonprofit Internships

Role Overview: Nonprofit interns support the mission of nonprofit organizations by assisting in fundraising, event planning, advocacy, and community outreach. This area is great for those passionate about social causes.
Key Responsibilities:
- Assisting in organizing events and campaigns.
- Engaging with community members or stakeholders.
- Supporting fundraising activities or grant writing.
- Managing social media or communications.
Skills Developed: Project management, communication, event planning, and social impact strategies.

11. Sales and Business Development Internships

Role Overview: Sales and business development interns support the sales team in lead generation, client relationships, product presentations, and market research.
Key Responsibilities:
- Assisting in lead generation and sales outreach.
- Conducting market research and competitor analysis.
- Helping with client meetings and presentations.
- Preparing sales materials or reports.
Skills Developed: Sales strategies, CRM tools, communication, and business acumen.

12. Creative/Design Internships

Role Overview: Interns in creative fields (graphic design, fashion design, animation, etc.) assist in developing visual content, marketing materials, or creative assets for companies.
Key Responsibilities:
- Designing visual content (e.g., logos, advertisements).
- Assisting in branding or product design processes.
- Editing videos or photos.
- Researching trends and inspiration for projects.
Skills Developed: Creativity, proficiency in design software (e.g., Adobe Suite), attention to detail, and project collaboration.

13. Environmental Science Internships

Role Overview: Interns in environmental science assist in conducting research on environmental issues, data collection, and analysis, as well as supporting sustainability initiatives.
Key Responsibilities:
- Collecting and analyzing environmental data (air, water, soil).
- Supporting environmental impact assessments.
- Assisting in research or sustainability projects.
- Conducting fieldwork or laboratory testing.
Skills Developed: Research methods, environmental regulations, data analysis, and sustainability practices.

Each of these internship areas offers a unique set of experiences and skills that are valuable in their respective fields. Depending on your career goals, one of these internship areas could be an excellent opportunity to develop your expertise.

Benefits of Internships

Internships offer a variety of benefits to students, both professionally and personally. Here are some of the key advantages:

1. Real-World Experience

Hands-On Learning: Internships provide a unique opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge learned in the classroom to real-world scenarios. This practical experience helps students gain insights into their chosen field and industry.
Understanding Industry Expectations: Interns experience the day-to-day operations of a company, understanding the workflows, processes, and expectations in a professional setting, which may differ from academic environments.

2. Skill Development

Technical Skills: Interns often learn specific tools, technologies, or techniques that are crucial for their career, especially in fields like engineering, computer science, and design.
Soft Skills: Communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and time management are all essential skills that are often honed in an internship environment. These soft skills are crucial for any career and are developed by collaborating with professionals and participating in workplace activities.

3. Networking Opportunities

Building Connections: Internships offer a chance to meet and work with professionals, mentors, and peers in your field. These connections can be valuable for future job searches or collaborations. Internships can help students expand their professional network and gain insight into career paths.
Mentorship: Many internships come with the opportunity to be mentored by experienced professionals who can provide guidance, feedback, and advice for career development.

4. Increased Employability

Resume Building: Having internship experience on a resume makes students more attractive to potential employers. It demonstrates that they have practical experience and are capable of applying their skills in a workplace environment.
Competitive Advantage: In today’s job market, many employers prefer candidates who have hands-on experience. An internship can give students an edge over those without any practical experience in the field.
Potential for Full-Time Employment: Many companies hire interns for full-time positions after graduation. An internship can act as a "trial period," where both the student and the employer can determine if they’re a good fit for each other.

5. Career Exploration

Clarify Career Interests: Internships allow students to explore different industries and job roles, helping them decide if the career path they’re pursuing is the right fit. It’s a chance to test the waters without committing to a full-time role.
Exposure to Various Roles: Internships often allow students to explore different facets of a company or industry, helping them gain a clearer picture of what various roles entail and which areas they might want to focus on in the future.

6. Improved Confidence

Real-World Challenges: Navigating real-world challenges during an internship can help students develop problem-solving skills and build confidence in their ability to handle complex tasks and situations.
Feedback and Growth: Constructive feedback from supervisors can help students understand their strengths and areas for improvement, contributing to both personal and professional growth.

7. Financial Benefits

Paid Internships: Some internships are paid, allowing students to earn money while gaining experience. Even unpaid internships often offer other benefits such as transportation or meal stipends.
Scholarships/Grants: In some cases, students can secure scholarships or funding specifically for completing internships, especially if they are related to their academic program or career development goals.

8. Improved Job Search and Interview Skills

Experience with Job Application Processes: Internships often require students to go through formal application processes, including submitting resumes, interviewing, and negotiating offers, helping them gain a better understanding of the job search process.
Interview Preparation: With internship experience, students can speak more confidently and specifically about their capabilities and achievements in interviews, making them more competitive candidates.

9. Academic Enhancement

Practical Perspective on Studies: Internships help students gain a deeper understanding of their academic studies by applying theory to practice. They may even come back to their coursework with a new perspective or a more practical approach to problem-solving.
Academic Credit: Some internships offer academic credit, meaning that students can earn credit toward their degree while gaining valuable experience.

10. Personal Growth

Independence and Responsibility: Internships require students to take on more responsibility, which fosters maturity, independence, and a greater sense of ownership over their work.
Adaptability and Resilience: Students can learn to navigate new environments, face challenges, and adjust to changing situations, which can make them more adaptable and resilient in future career endeavors.

Internships are a powerful way for students to develop a wide range of skills, build professional relationships, and explore career options, all while improving their chances of securing employment after graduation.

How to Find an Internship