Obtaining an Winter Internship is an excellent way to advance one's
career. Not only can students learn new skills, but they can gain
valuable experience that looks very impressive on their resumes. Even
more, internships help students become comfortable with how the
workforce is before they actually enter it.
Unfortunately, many
students don't benefit from internships because they are never accepted
into an internship program. Every single year, hundreds of thousands of
smart and talented students find themselves struggling to get in the
door.
Here are the top 10 internship mistakes to avoid:
1) Not Caring
Shockingly, many college students seem as if they don't really care
about their careers. They act as if they don't really want an
internship. Change your attitude today. Internships can become
high-paying jobs. It happens all the time.
2) Procrastinating
Many students who do want internships often procrastinate about
finding and applying for the opportunities. This is a deadly mistake.
Many programs have early deadlines. For instance, most summer
internships start recruiting in the winter. Start searching and applying
now.
3) Not Keeping Your Grades Up
An internship is like a job. Why would a company want to hire you if
your grades are bad? It is very important to keep your grades above
average. Many times a 2.5 GPA or higher is sufficient.
4) Not Utilizing Your Resources
Every high school has guidance counselors, and every college has a
career center. You should stop by and meet these people because they are
there to help you. Often, companies that are looking to hire interns
will ask them for recommendations.
5) Not Devoting Enough Time
You get out, what you put in. Don't just spend 5 minutes applying
for
Winter Internship. Try to spend at least 1-3 hours a week. Remember that
you want to take the time to find the opportunities that are most
relevant to you.
6) Racing Through Applications
Don't fill out an application just to get it over with. Be sure to
read the instructions, and give thought-provoking answers for essay
questions. Also, be sure to not misspell words - especially your own
name or the college you're attending.
7) Not Having Good References
Many internship applications require that you list references that
they can follow up with to confirm that you are a good applicant. Don't
list your family members or friends. List professors or advisers that
you know will vouch for you.
8) Messing Up The Interview
If you are called in for an interview, be sure to treat it like a
job interview. Dress neatly and appropriately, and bring copies of your
resume. Show up on time, and be sure to look the interviewer in the eye
when speaking. Also, shake their hand firmly before leaving.
9) Not Following Up
Don't make the mistake of not following up after the interview. The
week of the interview, send a brief "thank you" card to the person who
interviewed you. The next week, call or email your contact to see what
the status is.
10) Not Being Persistent
Getting an internship requires patience and persistence. Don't give
up. Keep filling out applications and submitting your resume to as many
companies and organizations as possible. Remember that there are tons of
opportunities available. With hard work and determination, you will
eventually reach your goal.