Students often complain that most of the internships they find require some type of experience in the field. This can be extremely frustrating when one of the main reasons students do internships is to get the relevant experience employers are looking for when hiring new employees. Although a lack of experience can be problematic, looking at the big picture will help put the problem into perspective by realizing that there are many ways to get experience.
First of all, check out all of the opportunities that are available on campus. Students often find that they can get valuable experience by joining clubs, volunteering, participating in co-curricular activities, working with faculty on current research projects, or doing an internship. In addition, many employers are accustomed to working with a college's Career Services Office by having college interns work in their companies.
Entry-level jobs are another alternative for gaining valuable transferable skills and provide an excellent opportunity for working with all kinds of people. Contacting your college alumni and conducting an informational interview, will give you an opportunity to discuss your goals and find out more about the type of experience employers in the field are looking for.
If you were held back from getting the internship you wanted this summer, be sure to use your time wisely during the coming school year to get the experience employers are looking for in both their interns and new employees.
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