A: Although it may seem like the obvious question, finding the right internship involves several steps: self evaluation, preparing an effective resume and corresponding with organizations that interest you, taking action and follow up.

Self evaluation: What are your needs and priorities? What do you want to get from an internship? Do you need to make money? How much time will you devote (full-time, part-time, weekends, summer, semester)? Do you wish to live away from home? What type of work environment most appeals to you? Our assessment resources may help you.

Action Plan: Determine which specific internships interest you, then plan to apply well in advance of the deadlines. This will allow you enough time to arrange for a personal interview and will give the organization a chance to find out more about you if they are interested.  Click here to learn about resources to help you find an internship.

Follow up: After you apply for an internship, use the time to your advantage. Stay in contact with potential internship sponsors. Patient, constructive persistence will demonstrate to the organization that you are serious, dedicated, and hardworking. Do you know someone in the organization who can put in a good word on your behalf? Use MiddNet to check if there are any Middlebury alumni there who would be willing to meet with you. Remember over 80% of all jobs are found through personal contacts.