Internships

Internships Flier

Employers are hiring candidates who have a history of experiences outside of the classroom. These experiences should build professional competencies, and they can be any type of experiential education, including: interning, volunteering, part-time student employment, involvement in student groups or other similar opportunities. Ideally, you will have a combination of these on your résumé; not only will they greatly increase your value as a job or graduate school candidate, they also lay the groundwork for great professional references, and help you find out if what you THINK you want to do is REALLY what you want to do

What is an internship, and where can I find one for me?

An Internship offers students the opportunity to gain experience and insight into an area, position or industry under the supervision of an experienced professional. These experiences can be full or part time and can occur at any time of the year or during your college experience. Some provide academic credit while others offer only the experience. Some can be paid experiences while others are unpaid. Internships are a form of Experiential Education. Experiential Education is an opportunity to learn by doing the job. Here are samples of experiential education opportunities:

Experiential Education Links

• Internship Opportunities by Category (advertising, health, international etc.)
• ILink -a database with internship ads for UIUC students
• Part-time and Summer Jobs
• Campus Activities, Local Organizations, and Volunteer Work
• The Externship Program (job shadowing alumni)
• UIUC Research Centers (to look for Research Assistantships)
• Cooperative Education

Why am I having a hard time finding an internship?

When a student has difficulty obtaining an internship it is most often because the student is unable to fully describe the type of internship position and professional experiences he or she is seeking in a field/area of career interest. You must be able to state what you are seeking and why. Finding your career path will take some effort, and we hope to be the place to assist you find your best job fit. These services can help you gain some focus:

Help Finding an Internship Links

• Individual career advising
• Interest assessments
• Career programs and workshops
• Career Resource Center
• Campus career offices
• Alumni networking and informational interviewing

How do I land an internship?

Each internship you apply for will have a separate application process. Writing a strong résumé, developing a cover letter, and polishing your interviewing skills are key in your job or internship search.

How do I make the most out of my internship ?

You should take certain steps BEFORE, DURING and AFTER the internship. Mere activity does not guarantee a successful internship.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where do I find Research Assistant positions on campus?

Here is a directory of Research Centers, Institutes, and Programs. Search the department sites for opportunities, and try the Virtual Job Board which lists many opportunities for students to work on campus.

I'm a Liberal Arts major, can I apply for business internships?

Yes! Liberal Arts majors can work in the business world in many capacities. To ensure your success in this pursuit, develop your career skills for success to be an appealing candidate for a business or corporation.

I have an offer for an internship, but I really hate the description, should I do it anyway?

NO! You should do what sounds interesting to you. If you take something because you think it will look good on your résumé and for no other reason, you're sure to disappoint yourself and your employer.

I'm an international student, how can I have an internship?

US laws regulate the employment of non-citizens. In many cases, international students can not have an internship unless they are earning credit for the internship as a class, check with your college to see if you can earn credit for an internship. Talk to the dean of your school and the Office of International Student Affairs to ask how you can have an internship. Read our page for International Students for more information.

Have a question you don't see answered here? Check our Virtual Advising Discussion Board, search the archives for previously asked questions, or post your question there and a counselor will answer it.