The document discusses the internship search process and securing an internship. It defines what an internship is and lists the benefits for students, universities, and employers. It then provides quick tips for students in the internship search process and outlines eight specific steps to securing an internship. Finally, it discusses how to conduct an internship/summer job search, including identifying priorities and offerings, establishing a timeline, assembling documents, learning about opportunities, applying, and preparing for interviews.

1. THE INTERNSHIP SEARCH PROCESS Securing an Internship: A Career & Life Enhancing Opportunity Presented by Kecia Brown Commencement of the 253rd Academic Year. Credit: © Rachel Lauren Hensel, '07CC

2. WHAT IS AN INTERNSHIP? “ An experiential learning opportunity where learners gain skills - connecting theory with the pragmatic.” Transformative learning-Mezirow A “Professional learning community” “ Learn by doing” Career enhancement vs. job placement

3. BENEFITS OF INTERNSHIPS FOR: “ Cinderella” Phenomenon Organizational Relevancy & Needs Analysis Access to top tier talent Socialization into Organizational Culture & Mentorship Opportunities The “litmus test ” of The Core Clarity of career objectives Strengthen University/Industry Further establish CCE as “The Good Neighbor” Further develop/leverage Industry contacts STUDENTS UNIVERSITY EMPLOYERS

4. QUICK TIPS: Be Self-Aware: Begin critically reflecting on your current experiences and assessing the types of new experiences you are interested in. Be Proactive/Be Informed: Begin researching opportunities early! Be Open: Every new interaction could possibly be that “chance of a lifetime;” so no bridge burning. Be Prepared: Make sure all personal marketing materials are in top form. Be Successful/Be Prepared for Failure: Remember this is a learning experience. Do your extreme best and be prepared for constructive feedback.

5. EIGHT STEPS TO SECURING AN INTERNSHIP 1. Start Early ! (Minimum 1 full semester prior to internship) 2. Schedule Appointment with Academic or Faculty Internship Advisor (designated by department). 3. Start Your Internship Search. 4. Meet with Academic Internship Director. 5. Finalize Internship Site (if not already done). 6. Prepare Learning Agreement . Brainstorm a list of personal learning goals and objectives. Review past courses and consider specific skills and theories which can be applied and observed during the internship. 7. During Internship, Complete Learning Tasks and Assignments. 8. After Internship, Communicate with the Site Supervisor.

6. SECURING AN INTERNSHIP AND GETTING AN OFFER Lynnette Jackson-MBA Student During the school year: Be active and involved in activities both in AND outside of school to increase your network and knowledge about your particular area of interest. Start your search ASAP so you can learn from your mistakes quickly and so that you can have as many options as possible. Interview: Be prepared to have multiple rounds of interviews Be flexible, friendly, act like you want to learn, and ask lots of questions. #1 Research the company and its competitors in advance. Tell a story and differentiate yourself from others. Internship: You only have 10-12 weeks to prove to your company that you are worthy of a full-time job offer. Go above and beyond expectations and ask for more work. Go in early, stay late. Use every opportunity to network. Be visible. Figure out the politics of the organization. Execute your projects Before the last day of work write a letter (not an e-mail) about what you learned, how the internship could be improved, why you want to work there (whether you do or not).

7. Identifying your priorities What do you want from the internship? • An opportunity to learn more about a particular field or industry? • Experience with a particular employer? • Work in a certain geographic region? • The chance to provide community service and/or public service? Narrowing the scope of your search will focus your efforts as you research internship options and can assist you in breaking your search into manageable pieces. Identify what you have to offer a prospective employer, volunteer work, etc. HOW TO CONDUCT AN INTERNSHIP/SUMMER JOB SEARCH

8. Identify what you have to offer a prospective employer., volunteer work, etc. Establish a timeline ASSEMBLING YOUR DOCUMENTS Resume Cover letter • Other Documents Employers May Request Transcripts Writing samples List of references LEARNING ABOUT OPPORTUNITIES • Books • Networking • Employers APPLYING • Figure Out To Whom To Send Your Resume And Cover Letter. • Contact the people with whom you've networked • Contact the company to find out more information • Fine-tune your resume and cover letter. • Send out your cover letter and resume via mail, email, and/or fax to all employers • Follow up • Prepare in advance for your interview. • Write Thank-You notes HOW TO CONDUCT AN INTERNSHIP/SUMMER JOB SEARCH

11. Questions?

12. Thank you. Commencement of the 253rd Academic Year. Credit: © Eileen Barroso/Columbia University Office of Public Affairs