Internship Prep
Internships are a great way to build skills, gain experience and a first-hand look at occupations. Employers value interns who bring new ideas to the workplace and often tap interns for full-time positions.
Check out and Kent State Department Internship Contacts
How to Prepare for and Make the Most of an Internship
1. ASSESS YOUR READINESS
- Are you confident about your career goals?
- When do you wish to complete an internship? Is it required of your program?
Do you know the basics?
» Internships can occur year round, typically last 10 - 15 weeks, and range from 10 - 30 work hours per week.» Details about work hours, length of internship, rate of pay, and other specifics are negotiated between employers and interns.
» If registering for academic credit, contact the department internship contact for approval.
2. CREATE A PROFESSIONAL IMAGE
- Prepare your resume and cover letter.
- Brush up on business etiquette.
- Establish a strategic social networking presence.
- Meet with a for a resume review.
3. APPLY FOR INTERNSHIPS
- Develop a network of contacts in your field of interest.
- Create your one-minute elevator pitch.
- Locate positions with our full-time and part-time employment search resources.
Follow up in a couple weeks after applying to ask:
» What is the status of my application and timeline for hiring?
» Can I provide any additional materials or information?
4. PRACTICE INTERVIEWING
- Conduct a mock interview with a or via .
- Understand interview basics and etiquette.
5. CONVEY PROFESSIONALISM
- Arrive on time and dress in business attire.
- Respect office protocols and learn all you can about the organization, industry, and profession.
- Network by speaking to people in all positions and seek out a mentor.
- Communicate regularly with your supervisor by asking questions, seeking feedback, and completing assigned duties and projects.
- Show initiative and a strong work ethic by welcoming new tasks, learning new skills, and striving to exceed expectations.
6. REFLECT ON experience AND LEAVE A POSITIVE IMPRESSION
- Request references from your supervisor and/or other colleagues.
- Update your resume to include the internship experience.
- Reflect on what you learned and review next-steps with a .