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Finding employment opportunities

Throughout my university journey so far I've been surrounded by friends who've been getting research positions and amazing internships. I really feel the pressure to be on the same level as many of them but I don't know really where to start. Do I build connections first and then reach out? Or do I something completely different? #internships #researchassistant #july20

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Diana’s Answer

Hi Wendy, the best place to start os the career center at your school and apply. Here is what i look for when hiring an intern. Even is they have never had experience, the experience i look for is what they got involved in at school, for example leading a club and being part of clubs i.e. planning events, etc. Therefore if there are any roles at school that help you get some experience even in a volunteer position please do that, it will go a long way
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Sarah’s Answer

Getting an internship can be done if you start early and stay persistent. Start looking at the the end of summer for positions that start the following year. If you're open to opportunities in different geographical areas, you will broaden your available options. For research positions, focus on building relationships with your professors and others in your department.
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Govind’s Answer

As mentioned in other answers, building connections through a tool like LinkedIn is a great starting point. I've found that networking is a very helpful way in standing out for internship opportunities. A couple of options you can take: 1) Use LinkedIn or another tool to reach out for an intro chat to your connections that are in a field that interests you. Even if you don't have direct relevant connections, sending a cold message sometimes pays off too! Just introduce yourself and show an interest in learning more about their field. 2) Through clubs / alumni networks you can get connected to folks hiring interns as well. Ask your school or clubs that you are a part of for an alumni directory. Here, you can again set up an intro conversation to learn more and network.

Above all, I would make sure to take the initiative and stay persistent. Getting an internship can be challenging, but if you put in the effort and stay perseverant, you will definitely get a great opportunity! Best of luck in the internship search.
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Carolyn’s Answer

Hi Wendy,

First of all, everyone has their own personal journey and you shouldn't try to compare yourself to others because you are probably doing your best and are fine. However, if you want an internship in a field you're interested in then my advice is to start searching for internships online or even just calling organizations to see if they are accepting interns or would be interested in having an intern. Some places might not have an internship program in place but would still take you on and develop one. I did an internship at a mental health center where I got to sit in on therapy and psychiatric evaluations which usually undergraduate interns do not get to do and all I did was call them and ask if they did internships. So I would recommend just making a lot of calls to places you want to intern at and I'm sure you will find a place that is more than willing to take you on.
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Fred’s Answer

Most universities should have a career center, or something similar. They should be able to help you find opportunities. You can also consider joining a professional organization to make contacts. If you don't have a linkedIn profile, it is also a good place to make connections and opportunities.

Don't let what your friends do bother you. Everyone finds their own path, in their own time.
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Carina’s Answer

Go to a professor whose class you love and ask if they do research or if anyone they know does research/academic work and needs volunteers. Utilize LinkedIn and your university's career fair. Start really early if you want a job by a certain time; I received my current June internship offer last October and it took a ton of pressure off of me throughout the school year.

Good luck!
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