It’s official: fall is on its way out and the winter holidays are fast approaching! Many of you are headed home for Thanksgiving in just a couple short weeks for a few days of rest, good food, and a much-needed break from the books. Take advantage of this break from the daily grind to start thinking about next summer. In the last the last issue of The Compass we dished out some advice on networking over the holidays by formulating an “elevator speech” to let friends and family know what you’re looking for and what you have to offer. Here are some more ways to get a head start on your internship search!
According to About.com’s guide to internships students should “[be] aware that certain industries and internships have early deadlines, and recruit and hire as early as November. Beginning your internship search during winter break affords you additional time to look for internships and perhaps make some valuable connections with alumni or professionals within organizations of interest prior to returning to college. ”
Internet resources like MOJO are great for finding internships, but don’t rely too heavily online resources, especially if you want to stay close to home this summer. You could miss out on some great opportunities right under your nose! Start by setting aside an afternoon or two during your break to make phone calls. Check in with local businesses and organizations to see about the possibilities of an internship. About.com recommends looking for internships “online as well as identifying potential employers through classified ads, the the local Chamber of Commerce, or the phone book…Finding an internship requires some research and planning for finding the right internship opportunities but the results are definitely worth the effort.”
Check out more tips for finding internship tips at: http://internships.about.com/od/internsites/tp/howtofind.htm