How to Choose an Internship For Freshman in College
When choosing an internship for a college freshman, there are a few things to consider. First, you should avoid financial and banking internships. These require a certain level of experience, such as understanding financial statements. A more suitable internship for a freshman would be in a STEM field, such as computer science, math, or engineering. However, it is important to remember that there are many different kinds of internships.
Informational interviews
An informational interview is a way to find out more about a career path that interests you. You can conduct these interviews over the phone or in person. In the process of conducting an informational interview, you will gain insight into the job description from an actual employee. To find the best candidates for these interviews, brainstorm with your Career Coach at the Pomerantz Career Center. You can also contact friends and family members for suggestions.
Before meeting the person you are seeking information from, always arrive early and be professional. Research the company’s name and field beforehand and prepare some questions. Once you have made a connection, follow up with a thank-you email. In the following days, follow up to see if you got the desired information from the interview. This networking process can help you find a job that suits you best. Make sure you arrive at the interview at least five to ten minutes early so that you can prepare yourself properly.
If you’re trying to find information from a current employer, try to make contact with the person directly through LinkedIn or another networking site. Be sure to provide the name of the company, as well as your objective. Remember that you can also use your email or social media account to ask for informational interviews. Alumni from your college are a great resource when it comes to finding a job. They can provide advice on how to make your career successful and may also provide a list of contacts to get in touch with.
When conducting informational interviews, prepare specific questions to ask the interviewer. This way, you’ll have a greater chance of learning as much as possible in a short period of time. For example, ask the CDO staff or Career Assistant to provide the names of additional candidates for informational interviews. During these interviews, ask them to share their experiences with you. Then, use this knowledge to inform your career choices.
Non-traditional internships
Non-traditional college students often face more time constraints than their traditional counterparts. They may be parents, career changers, or returning to school after a break. These students may have part-time jobs and are unable to add internships to their busy schedules. These students may also be part-time students who need to pay for essential expenses. Internships for these students are an excellent option to get work experience and ease their transition into the workforce.
As a first step, students can network with their professors and classmates to find internships that fit their interests. Alumni associations are also helpful resources. Joining alumni associations helps students meet alumni and employers from their fields. Students should also network within the organization to gain a variety of contacts and learn about the internship process. When looking for internships, students should be sure to show the employer that they have a passion for the field they are interested in.
In addition to the traditional internship, non-traditional interns may be looking to get some practical work experience. This experience may be vital for those who have taken some time off the workforce. Often, fields change and internships offer a way to reacquaint students with their careers and show prospective employers that they’re up-to-date. And for college students who aren’t yet ready for a career change, an internship can help them make the transition from student to employee.
Career centers
The role of career centers is changing from a source of self-fulfillment to an important tool for students and alumni. According to a Gallup survey, almost half of students say they don’t make full use of the resources provided by career centers. Many students say they used career centers to learn how to prepare for job interviews and write resumes, but they didn’t receive training on salary negotiations. This means students are missing out on an opportunity to build valuable connections and land a great job.
For first-generation students, these resources are especially important. They may lack connections to their family’s professional network, which is why career centers are an important bridge between college and the professional world. While first-generation students may use online resources for career planning, they report that in-person resources are more beneficial, especially when it comes to career coaching and practicing interview techniques. Regardless of whether they use online resources or personal advice, these resources provide a valuable bridge into the professional world for many students.
Whether students are seeking to change majors or find a new career, the services offered by a career center are vital to their success. Staff at a career center can help students create a successful LinkedIn profile, find job postings on the Internet, and navigate online job search services. Career centers also focus on developing skills for the future, as the average professional works 12 jobs in their lifetime. By gaining skills that can be applied multiple times, students are more likely to find a good job once they graduate.
Students who visit a career center may also be given access to peer mentors who have recently graduated from college. These students can give each other advice on their classes and what they’ve learned. This peer mentoring can be valuable in their search for a job, and the students may be interested in participating in such a program. It’s important to note that many career centers will also offer free professional photographs. Despite the fact that these services are rarely utilized, their value is enormous.
Applying for internships
First, be clear about the type of internship you want. An internship in finance, for example, requires more than just the skills needed to work on numbers. Freshmen in finance will often need experience in basic accounting and a good grasp of financial statements. Alternatively, apply for internships in STEM fields, which are more likely to be open to freshmen. These internships can be extremely valuable and will help you build a strong resume.
When applying for internships, make sure to select a company with similar values. While you may face rejection, you should never give up. Let employers know that you are willing to learn and work hard. Then, follow up with an email to let them know that you received the internship. This is a great way to start your career path. It also gives your parents a chance to express their support and appreciation for your hard work.
Identify a mentor. Interns need mentors who will guide them. Find an experienced mentor who is invested in your growth as an intern. Ask for assignments outside of your expertise and ask questions to help you learn more. By being proactive, you can ensure that your internship will be an enriching experience for both you and your mentor. The goal of an internship is to learn new skills and develop new skills.
First-year students should apply for internships early. Although college freshmen are not allowed to work on internships until the second semester or summer before their sophomore year, it is still a good idea to start the process early. In addition to giving yourself time to complete an internship, it will help you decide what career path you want to pursue. If you plan on applying for an internship as a freshman, make sure to check the deadlines at your college.
An internship is a great way to gain professional experience and gain meaningful insight into the field you wish to pursue. In addition, it’s a great way to develop skills and build networking connections in your field. Getting an internship gives you a glimpse into what a full-time job looks like before graduating. You’ll gain invaluable insight and experience that will help you stand out from the crowd.