Internship Prep Timeline

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Career Exploration and Development
261 Schwartz Center
330-672-2360
www.kent.edu/career

Three out of five graduating seniors have done one! How about you?

• Be one of the 60% of paid interns who receive at least one employment offer upon graduation (NACE, class of 2012)

• Develop professional skills including a personal set of values, ethics, and work standards

• Confirm (or re-evaluate) your major and career choices

• Experience the inner workings of a career field and gain experience to build your resume

• Increase marketability and skills valued by potential employers

• Gain networking opportunities and obtain professional references

• Meet degree requirements if enrolled for credit

What can keep you from obtaining an internship?

• Not being professional (online, on paper, and in person)

• Lack of career goals, motivation, and follow through

• Waiting too late to apply for opportunities

Plan ahead so you don’t fall behind!

Pre-Search Basics

Ask yourself these questions

• What do I want to do or accomplish in my internship?

• What skills do I currently possess?

• Have I completed preparatory coursework related to the field?

• If not “internship ready”, meet with a career advisor to get on track!

Know the facts about internships

• May occur year round and often last 10-15 weeks and range from 10-30 hours per week

• Pay, length and hours worked are negotiated between students and employers

• Academic credit for an internship is approved by your college’s faculty/staff

• Seek out an internship even if it’s not required by your major

Before you apply

• Create an outstanding resume that best highlights your skills. See a Career Advisor for help

• Gather a variety of references related to academics, work, student organization/leadership activity

Where to Search for Internships

• Determine your preferred work environment and use your network of contacts to find openings

• Use informational interviews to connect you with potential opportunities

• Register with Flash @ Work to view openings

• Attend our Fall and Spring Internship, Co-op & Career Fairs to meet with employers

• Use our Helpful Career Websites to locate popular search websites

• Connect with alumni through the Alumni Association

Prepare to “wow” employers!

• Polish your one-minute elevator pitch to make it work for you!

• Practice interviewing skills from the comfort of your home using Interview Stream

• Complete a mock interview with a Career Advisor in the Career Exploration and Development

"Beat" the Competition

• Investigate/apply one year ahead for some highly desirable internships

• Create business/networking cards and pass out to contacts, friends, and family

• Join and participate in LinkedIn industry related groups

• Fine-tune your professional image both online and in-person

• Join professional associations in your field

During Your Internship

• Dress appropriately, and if expectation are unclear, check with your supervisor

• Communicate professionally at all times

• Be aware of the office environment and adhere to office protocols

• Talk with everyone, not just immediate co-workers

• Check in often with your supervisor and ask for additional work, as appropriate

• Ask your supervisor if they will serve as a “positive” reference for you in the future

• Maximize the experience even if you are not interested in pursuing further employment

After Your Internship

• Use your supervisor’s feedback to assess strengths and areas for improvement

• Update your resume with the new experience

• Stay in touch with your supervisors and mentors