9 Ways to Find Your First Internship
With such a competitive market of students and recent graduates looking for internship opportunities, it can be challenging to stand out. The rising employer expectations and overwhelming volumes of competing applications can make finding your first internship stressful.
In a 2023 RippleMatch candidate survey, we found that candidates today submit 50 or more applications during their searches before landing a role. The data indicates that students and internship seekers must put in significantly more effort to receive an offer for their first internship.
The good news is you can use various strategies and tips to increase your chances of success. Here are some key steps to stand out and land that first internship opportunity.
Do Your Research
It's important to do your research when you begin your internship search — otherwise you may be contacting companies without internship programs for a spot at their organization. Investigate what companies offer internships in the field you are interested in, and read up on their mission statements, values, and culture. Use resources tailored for internship-seekers such as RippleMatch to connect with standout employers that are hiring now, and that you’d be a great fit for. You can also turn to your school career center to help build a list of potential employers and create a timeline for contacting them.
Network in your industries of interest
Networking with professionals in the field is a great way to get your foot in the door of potential employers. Use LinkedIn to find and connect with people who can help you learn more about companies, the hiring process, and different opportunities that may be available. You can also ask for advice from professionals and tap into their networks to find out about internships that are not widely advertised.
Prepare your application properly
Once you've identified potential internships, learning the best practices for your applications is critical. Make sure your resume and cover letter are up-to-date with all of the required information and tailored to each job you apply to. Take the time to create a portfolio that showcases relevant projects or experiences related to the position. As a student or recent graduate, this can include research projects, organizations you're part of, or volunteer work.
When using a platform like RippleMatch, be sure that you fully complete your profile (no cover letter required!) to start connecting with amazing internship opportunities right away.
Proactively contact employers
It pays to be proactive and reach out to employers directly. You can use email, LinkedIn messages, or even cold calling to introduce yourself and your interest in their company.
Be sure to include an attention-grabbing subject line and a professional message that speaks about why you would be an excellent fit for the internship. Include a copy of your resume and any additional information the employer may need. It's important to not only reach out once but to follow up throughout the recruitment process.
Attend in-person and virtual career fairs
Career fairs are great opportunities for students and recent graduates to connect with potential employers in person. Before attending a career fair, it's important to do your research and be prepared with a few key pieces of information.
Have an elevator pitch ready that explains why you'd be the perfect candidate for their organization. You should also have your resume printed out, which employers may ask for during the conversation. After each employer you meet, note what was discussed and how you can follow up.
Also, use virtual job fairs to extend your reach without traveling. For virtual job fairs, be sure to take the conversation and dress as professionally as if you were communicating in person. Connect with recruiters and employers by showing enthusiasm and knowledge about their organization. Check out our tips for standing out at both in-person and virtual career fairs here.
Visit your university career services
Your university's career services offices can be helpful when searching for internships. They will likely have a wide range of resources available, including job postings, advice from career counselors, and alumni networks.
Use their services by attending workshops or informational sessions on searching for an internship. Career centers typically also offer resume and cover letter reviews, mock interviews, career fairs, and more.
When you're ready to apply for internships, visit your university's career services office to help refine your application materials. They should provide guidance on which internships would suit you best and any other advice you may need.
Join professional organizations
Professional organizations are a great way to stay updated with the latest developments in your field. Such groups offer members access to job postings, networking events, and conferences that can open up doors for internships.
Research organizations related to your preferred industry or profession and look into what types of membership options they offer. Many professional organizations give current students discounted memberships and may even provide access to job boards or career resources.
Use RippleMatch to apply for relevant internship opportunities
RippleMatch's platform connects students seeking internships with employers ready to hire. By creating a profile, the platform analyzes your experience and passions and matches you to employers looking for your skills, experience and interest. Employers on RippleMatch aren’t ghosting candidates, and respond much faster than those not on our platform. In fact, candidates 10x their chance of landing a first-round interview for an internship by using RippleMatch. Hear from real candidates like yourself about their experiences on RippleMatch here.
Keep applying & don't give up!
Based on the data presented, the internship search can take time, so it's important to stay motivated and keep applying. Set aside a specific amount of time each week to look for new job postings, follow up with employers, and network with professionals in your field. Be sure to also stay consistent in applying for opportunities on platforms like RippleMatch!
Beginning your internship search early is of the utmost importance. It keeps you ahead of the game and provides an edge over the competition. Researching potential employers, networking within your preferred industry, and utilizing platforms like RippleMatch can streamline the process, will make it easier on yourself.
Ready to get your internship search started? Take an easy first step and build your profile on RippleMatch today!
