Carlos
How can I find an internship for business or finance?
I'm a High school junior and really want to pursue a career in business or finance. I want an internship to gain experience and show an my interest to colleges. I know I'm young but is there any hope in finding a position like that? #business #finance #business-management #financial-services #investment-management #investment-banking
6 answers
Amy Kolzow
Amy’s Answer
Hi Carlos, your willingness and ambition are wonderful...a great sign of your future success. I do think you might have trouble based on your age finding an "official" internship, but I do think you can find a related job. There are a lot of companies that might need office help (even in paying positions) that would expose you to a lot of "business" and even "finance." You'll also have the opportunity to meet people who have jobs that you think you might like to have in the future and that's a great learning opportunity. Just getting your foot in the door somewhere and being able to position that experience on your resume in the future as a learning tool that exposed you to some of the basics will help you land that internship when the time is right. With your ambition, you'll do great! Best of luck!!
Nadia Goharian
Nadia’s Answer
The counselor at your high school may have knowledge about the internship openings in your area. Also you can search websites such as Glassdoor or Indeed for internships in finance. Typically, I would start applying very early (i.e Fall for the following summer). However, there is always a possibility to find an internship opportunity last minute as some students who may have received several internship offers from different companies will have to decline all offers but their top choice. This will allow an opportunity to enter as last minute applicants.
Paul Gullatte
Paul’s Answer
It's possible but you may have to focus on smaller firms or sole proprietorships because the large companies only offer internships to juniors or seniors in college. If I were you I'd try to find a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) in your area and contact them to see if you could intern a few times a week. If you really want to increase your chances tell them you'd be willing to do it for free. This way they don't have to worry about increasing labor costs and they would be more willing to take you on. Remember, at this point in your life it's not about the money. It's about gaining experience. The money will come later.
Christine Burias
Christine’s Answer
Shay Zutshi
Shay’s Answer
Michael Pooley
Michael’s Answer
Congratulations on taking the first step! To have such a strong vision and focus at a young age is admirable. As you have correctly identified, gaining real world experience is going to be a huge asset for you as your navigate your career. With that said, a couple of thoughts;
1) Through high school and university, do your best to network. Try to connect with folks that also have an interest in business as you will undoubtedly be following a similar path and it is easier to have resources along the way.
2) Most tangible work experience that would be recognized and valued by potential employers down the road would be gained in University vs. High School. In HS, I would recommend seeking experiences that make you more comfortable and confident with people (answering phones, customer service, etc.). Also, given you have a long work career ahead of you, make sure you enjoy your HS years as well!
All the best on your journey. Remember things take time so keep pupshing!
Cheers.