Find an Internship

So you’ve heard an internship is a great way to build your resume and prepare for life after college, but you don’t know where to start.  Where exactly does one find these magical internships? 

Step 1: Plan Ahead

Finding an internship, just like finding job, can take time. You don’t want to miss out on that perfect internship because you found out a day past the deadline. We recommend starting your search at least a semester before you want an internship.Start by narrowing down what you want from your internship. Be specific: "to get some experience" is not enough.  

• What particular skills do you want to improve or develop?
• What do you think is going to benefit you the most?   
• What kind of organization do you want to work at? (Profit or Non-Profit?  Big or Small? Etc.)

You also need to consider if you want or need your internship to be for academic credit.  Talk with your academic advisor and figure out how an internship will fit into your academic plan.

Step 2:  How, and Where, to Search 

Searching “internships” on Google can give you lots of results; but do you have the time to filter out the good from the bad?  The Academic Internship Office has great tools to narrow your search. We recommend students start on the Career Connections Opportunity Board (CCOB). Also take a look our list of a few other good internship websites in the quick links to the right.

Other things to consider while searching:

• Look at associations or professional groups related to your field; often they have job boards or forums.  
• Take advantage of PLU’s Job and Internship fair each fall and spring.
• Is there a specific company/organization were you would like to intern? 
  • If you can’t find any internship information on their website, politely email them and ask, sometimes employers have an outdated website or don’t advertise their internships online.   
• Do you know any friends or relatives who work in a similar field? Networking is a powerful tool. 
• Have you thought about interning abroad? Get in touch with the Wang Center

If you feel overwhelmed or just want some help, visit our office in Ramstad Commons.

Step 3: Keeping Track of your Search

Staying on top of your connections and application status can be confusing if you have applied for multiple internships. Consider tracking your communication with contacts and responses. Many forms have been developed and you can design your own method. Here is a sample format:

Good luck and good hunting! Once you find that perfect internship, find out how to impress with your resume and application.

PLU is committed to providing equal opportunity in employment and in education for all members of the University community without regard to an individual's race, color, creed, religion, gender, national origin, age, mental or physical disability, marital status, sexual orientation or any other status protected by law.