Internship Search Timeline

BEFORE BEGINNING YOUR SEARCH TAKE TIME FOR

Self-Discovery

• What interests, skills, and talents do you want to use, improve, or develop in your internship? 
• What career paths do you want to explore with your major?  

Exploring Your Options

• Schedule informational meetings with faculty members to learn about your field of interest
• Find out when the "hiring season" is for your chosen industry and adjust your plans and expectations accordingly
• Review internship listings on LinkProfessional as well as other job search sites, specific to your industry; identify specific skill sets and desired qualifications for listings that interest you
• Schedule an appointment with a career consultant to discuss your individual options and plan 

3-6 MONTHS BEFORE YOU WANT TO INTERN

• Create a resume and cover letter and have them reviewed during by one of our consultants 
• Upload your resume to LinkProfessional for review and approval
• Identify what kind of internship you are looking for (e.g. location, industry, paid/unpaid, credit/non-credit, etc.)
• Speak with professors and Professional Development consultants about your career interests and seek their professional advice
• Identify specific organizations or businesses to target and find out about their internship application deadlines
• Consider your financial needs 
• Participate in Professional Development’s events such as Sectoral Orienteering, on-campus interviews, mock interviews, seminars and panels, workshops, etc. to improve your skills and connect with employers

2-3 MONTHS BEFORE

• Review the Internships For Credit information to determine if you want to register your internship for academic credit; Meet with your academic advisor to determine if you have elective(s) available; Complete the appropriate paperwork BEFORE the semester begins!
• Create a target list of 10-20 organizations or companies that fit your interests; Talk to your professors about your internship plans and begin networking
• Create a LinkedIn account and join alumni groups to connect with alumni in your industry
• If necessary, prepare images, a design portfolio and a digital portfolio to present to employers
• Access LinkProfessional: review postings weekly (check the LinkProfessional FAQ for answers to your questions
• Begin applying for internship postings (including on-campus interviews) on LinkProfessional - be aware of deadlines!

1-2 MONTHS BEFORE

• Continue applying for internship postings (including on-campus interviews) on LinkProfessional and other industry-related sites, as well as, directly reviewing and contacting employers on your target list – and keep a record of your applications so you can follow up
• Review interviewing tips and attend a workshop or mock interview to improve your skills
• Remember to always send a thank you note after each interview
• If you are registering your internship for academic credit, begin the registration and approval process 

DURING THE INTERNSHIP

• Consider resources to help you maximize your internship.
• Focus on job priorities and take initiative; always come prepared and never be without a notebook and pen!
• Seek feedback and support; find a mentor and utilize any knowledge/expertise they are willing to share
• Build and maintain your professional network during and after your internship (Hint: LinkedIn is a great way to easily stay connected post internship).