9 answers
Huy
Student
Garden Grove, California
1
Question
Asked
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How do I improve my resume to get internship?
I am a 4th year mechanical engineering student at CSULB and looking to improve my skills and learn more experiences through internships and work experiences.
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9 answers
Patrick Meyer
Executive - Data Analytics and AI
750
Answers
Naperville, Illinois
Updated
Patrick’s Answer
Huy, I want to first thank you for reaching out and asking your questions regarding obtaining guidance on your resume to secure a valuable internship opportunity in the field of mechanical engineering. Andrew in today's digital age, there are numerous opportunities for individuals to generate income online. As a student in your fourth year at CSULB, your commitment to seeking additional skills and experiences through internships is commendable. I hope the information that I have below provides you some insight and/or help.
Here's a breakdown of the key sections of a resume and the crucial details you should include in each:
• Start with an objective statement. This should be a brief statement that highlights your career goals and your desire to use your mechanical engineering knowledge in a professional environment. Make sure to express your interest in gaining practical experience through an internship.
• Next, focus on your education. Highlight your academic accomplishments by detailing your mechanical engineering major, your expected graduation date, and any relevant coursework or projects that demonstrate your skills and knowledge. If you've received any honors or awards, include them. In this section, you can also list your technical skills. These are the skills you've learned or acquired as part of your degree. For your major, consider including proficiency in relevant software, programming languages, and specific tools or equipment used in mechanical engineering. This gives recruiters a quick snapshot of your abilities.
• Then, discuss any specific projects and coursework. Highlight key projects and coursework that show your practical application of engineering concepts. Focus on projects that required problem-solving, teamwork, and innovation. Use bullet points to briefly describe your role, the project objectives, and the outcomes achieved.
• If you've held any jobs while in school or during the summer, include a section for relevant work experiences. List any part-time jobs or internships you've had, even if they're not directly related to mechanical engineering. Highlight transferable skills like teamwork, communication, and problem-solving that are valuable in any work environment.
• Don't forget to include any extracurricular activities. For example, my son played sports throughout high school, so I had him include this. In your case, this could be useful if you've been involved in engineering-related clubs, organizations, or extracurricular activities. This shows your passion for the field and your ability to apply engineering principles outside the classroom.
• Next, list any additional certifications and/or training you've obtained. Include any certifications, workshops, or additional training you've undergone, especially those relevant to mechanical engineering. This can set you apart and show your commitment to continuous learning.
• Some people include a section for professional development. This shows your commitment to ongoing learning and development by listing any relevant seminars, webinars, or conferences you've attended. This highlights your proactive approach to staying informed about industry trends.
• Finally, include a section for references. You can either list references or indicate that references are available upon request. Make sure you've asked permission from individuals who can vouch for your academic and professional qualifications.
• One often overlooked aspect of a resume is its format. Choose a clean and professional resume format. Use a clear font, organize information logically, and make sure there are no grammatical errors. Customize your resume for each internship application by aligning it with the specific requirements mentioned in the job posting. The appearance of your resume says a lot about your character and seriousness. A messy or unstructured resume might suggest a lack of seriousness or a rushed job.
Remember, Huy, the secret to a powerful resume is to highlight not just your academic achievements, but also your practical skills and experiences. Customize your resume for each internship application, emphasizing the elements of your background that match the specific requirements of the position.
Here's a breakdown of the key sections of a resume and the crucial details you should include in each:
• Start with an objective statement. This should be a brief statement that highlights your career goals and your desire to use your mechanical engineering knowledge in a professional environment. Make sure to express your interest in gaining practical experience through an internship.
• Next, focus on your education. Highlight your academic accomplishments by detailing your mechanical engineering major, your expected graduation date, and any relevant coursework or projects that demonstrate your skills and knowledge. If you've received any honors or awards, include them. In this section, you can also list your technical skills. These are the skills you've learned or acquired as part of your degree. For your major, consider including proficiency in relevant software, programming languages, and specific tools or equipment used in mechanical engineering. This gives recruiters a quick snapshot of your abilities.
• Then, discuss any specific projects and coursework. Highlight key projects and coursework that show your practical application of engineering concepts. Focus on projects that required problem-solving, teamwork, and innovation. Use bullet points to briefly describe your role, the project objectives, and the outcomes achieved.
• If you've held any jobs while in school or during the summer, include a section for relevant work experiences. List any part-time jobs or internships you've had, even if they're not directly related to mechanical engineering. Highlight transferable skills like teamwork, communication, and problem-solving that are valuable in any work environment.
• Don't forget to include any extracurricular activities. For example, my son played sports throughout high school, so I had him include this. In your case, this could be useful if you've been involved in engineering-related clubs, organizations, or extracurricular activities. This shows your passion for the field and your ability to apply engineering principles outside the classroom.
• Next, list any additional certifications and/or training you've obtained. Include any certifications, workshops, or additional training you've undergone, especially those relevant to mechanical engineering. This can set you apart and show your commitment to continuous learning.
• Some people include a section for professional development. This shows your commitment to ongoing learning and development by listing any relevant seminars, webinars, or conferences you've attended. This highlights your proactive approach to staying informed about industry trends.
• Finally, include a section for references. You can either list references or indicate that references are available upon request. Make sure you've asked permission from individuals who can vouch for your academic and professional qualifications.
• One often overlooked aspect of a resume is its format. Choose a clean and professional resume format. Use a clear font, organize information logically, and make sure there are no grammatical errors. Customize your resume for each internship application by aligning it with the specific requirements mentioned in the job posting. The appearance of your resume says a lot about your character and seriousness. A messy or unstructured resume might suggest a lack of seriousness or a rushed job.
Remember, Huy, the secret to a powerful resume is to highlight not just your academic achievements, but also your practical skills and experiences. Customize your resume for each internship application, emphasizing the elements of your background that match the specific requirements of the position.
Thank you, Patrick for the advice.
Huy
Paul Iyoha, E.I.T
Research assistant
15
Answers
Lubbock, Texas
Updated
Paul’s Answer
Hello my friend!
I vividly recall how challenging it was for my peers to apply for internships back in the day. However, I had a more straightforward approach, which I not only shared with them but am also about to share with you. If you're aiming to enhance your résumé for internship opportunities, I recommend that you enroll in some free online courses that align with your skills. Additionally, make sure to utilize LinkedIn to its full potential.
Ensure that your LinkedIn profile mirrors the quality of your CV and don't forget to use its job search feature. With a well-structured profile, you'll be able to apply for relevant positions with just a single click when the time comes. Surprisingly, many students at your level overlook LinkedIn, even though numerous recruiters are actively searching for potential candidates on the platform. I sincerely hope this advice proves beneficial to you!
I vividly recall how challenging it was for my peers to apply for internships back in the day. However, I had a more straightforward approach, which I not only shared with them but am also about to share with you. If you're aiming to enhance your résumé for internship opportunities, I recommend that you enroll in some free online courses that align with your skills. Additionally, make sure to utilize LinkedIn to its full potential.
Ensure that your LinkedIn profile mirrors the quality of your CV and don't forget to use its job search feature. With a well-structured profile, you'll be able to apply for relevant positions with just a single click when the time comes. Surprisingly, many students at your level overlook LinkedIn, even though numerous recruiters are actively searching for potential candidates on the platform. I sincerely hope this advice proves beneficial to you!
Monica Corona
2
Answers
Guadalajara
Updated
Monica’s Answer
When applying for each internship, customize your resume to emphasize the parts of your background that match the specific requirements of the position.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6175
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Huy,
Yes I know we must talk facts tell our employers that we have insane talents and virtually angels of God well not. Anyway in our resume we're supposed to tell the truth and the best we can do is do a swat analysis probably more focusing on the strengths and weaknesses than the threats to ourselves which include someone else getting the job and only darken our day. So if you have like an incredible mathematical aptitude tell them about it if you have 52 years programming experience tell them about it all but your only 26 years old tell them about it.
There Is a talent that communicates with people an example is storytelling or writing public speaking is a good idea learning that may be going to clubs like Zonta well I can't really see you there. It's like trying to win a person over except in an interview probably time to win 1/2 a dozen over i've done it a few times probably through experience in science and mathematics.
You won't need to lie you can be truthful but do tell a bit of a yarn story and entertain these people because they want to hear about your incredible work atomine. Focus on the important things in human personalities such as honesty helpfulness cheerfulness confidence managerial skills are very important so you're behind the 8 ball if you haven't got much work experience for people that haven't got a lot of work experience I'll probably focus on your strengths like personality traits.
What is important is to develop relationships at work and these aren't the sort of boy-girl relationships they are friendships colleague friendships and being recognized as a person that someone can depend on when the bad material hits the fan you know what I mean trouble Trouble can really scare people and that sort of person that is very good at handling emergencies like an employee having a heart attack that sort of person is very valued to keep a cool head in emergencies. Good rescuers like firefighters would be the sort of people I make an example of.
Oh by the way don't forget to look at my autobiography for valuable information for you about those foods that supply the nutrients needed for psychological mental and brain function. If you are deficient in nutrients and you replete those nutrients you will notice a quantum leap in capabilities to perform tasks like study exams assignments you will be helping other people and I don't know too many people that refuse help when it's offered for free. Thank you for your attention.
Yes I know we must talk facts tell our employers that we have insane talents and virtually angels of God well not. Anyway in our resume we're supposed to tell the truth and the best we can do is do a swat analysis probably more focusing on the strengths and weaknesses than the threats to ourselves which include someone else getting the job and only darken our day. So if you have like an incredible mathematical aptitude tell them about it if you have 52 years programming experience tell them about it all but your only 26 years old tell them about it.
There Is a talent that communicates with people an example is storytelling or writing public speaking is a good idea learning that may be going to clubs like Zonta well I can't really see you there. It's like trying to win a person over except in an interview probably time to win 1/2 a dozen over i've done it a few times probably through experience in science and mathematics.
You won't need to lie you can be truthful but do tell a bit of a yarn story and entertain these people because they want to hear about your incredible work atomine. Focus on the important things in human personalities such as honesty helpfulness cheerfulness confidence managerial skills are very important so you're behind the 8 ball if you haven't got much work experience for people that haven't got a lot of work experience I'll probably focus on your strengths like personality traits.
What is important is to develop relationships at work and these aren't the sort of boy-girl relationships they are friendships colleague friendships and being recognized as a person that someone can depend on when the bad material hits the fan you know what I mean trouble Trouble can really scare people and that sort of person that is very good at handling emergencies like an employee having a heart attack that sort of person is very valued to keep a cool head in emergencies. Good rescuers like firefighters would be the sort of people I make an example of.
Oh by the way don't forget to look at my autobiography for valuable information for you about those foods that supply the nutrients needed for psychological mental and brain function. If you are deficient in nutrients and you replete those nutrients you will notice a quantum leap in capabilities to perform tasks like study exams assignments you will be helping other people and I don't know too many people that refuse help when it's offered for free. Thank you for your attention.
Anna Cantella
Exercise Physiology
25
Answers
Cleveland, Ohio
Updated
Anna’s Answer
Hi Huy,
It's fantastic to hear you're making the bold move of exploring internship opportunities! As a fellow student, I can empathize with the pressure and uncertainty that comes along with this process. Here are some proactive steps you can take to enhance your resume and increase your chances:
1) Engage in a variety of campus activities, clubs, and programs that you genuinely enjoy. This will not only enrich your college experience but also add depth to your resume.
2) Participate in or even initiate clubs that align with your major. This will demonstrate your passion and commitment to your field of study.
3) Enroll in courses related to your major where you can undertake projects, write papers, and participate in activities that are relevant to your field. If you have the opportunity to present your work or research, even to a small audience, it can have a significant impact and add a lot of value to your resume.
While maintaining good grades and academic performance is essential, many employers also value volunteering, shadowing experiences, or any unique experiences that set you apart. Remember, many applicants may have similar grades, but those with practical experience and hands-on learning are often more likely to secure the job.
I have every confidence in your ability to navigate this journey successfully. Best of luck with your endeavors!
Best Regards,
AC
It's fantastic to hear you're making the bold move of exploring internship opportunities! As a fellow student, I can empathize with the pressure and uncertainty that comes along with this process. Here are some proactive steps you can take to enhance your resume and increase your chances:
1) Engage in a variety of campus activities, clubs, and programs that you genuinely enjoy. This will not only enrich your college experience but also add depth to your resume.
2) Participate in or even initiate clubs that align with your major. This will demonstrate your passion and commitment to your field of study.
3) Enroll in courses related to your major where you can undertake projects, write papers, and participate in activities that are relevant to your field. If you have the opportunity to present your work or research, even to a small audience, it can have a significant impact and add a lot of value to your resume.
While maintaining good grades and academic performance is essential, many employers also value volunteering, shadowing experiences, or any unique experiences that set you apart. Remember, many applicants may have similar grades, but those with practical experience and hands-on learning are often more likely to secure the job.
I have every confidence in your ability to navigate this journey successfully. Best of luck with your endeavors!
Best Regards,
AC
Richard Thornton
Aerospace Engineer
20
Answers
Robbinsville, New Jersey
Updated
Richard’s Answer
Huy, this is question on the mind of many people around this time. If you are looking to improve your resume and grow your experience in the field, in addition to internships, I would highly recommend finding research opportunities and even teaching assistant positions. For the latter, these often involve simply emailing around to your professors, having a decent enough grade from the time you took that course, and an affinity for helping others. Universities are surprisingly stretched thin with TA's, so its certainly an option that should be available to you as an upperclassman. Plus as far as your resume, it shows great initiative, leadership (as in some cases you may even lead a basic course for the day), and a particularly strong background in whatever that course may be (since you'll be teaching and grading tests multiple times for each class you teach).
Research opportunities on the other hand, add a great variety to your resume and give you the chance to experience a more real-world environment where you not only complete the work on your own with little oversight, but also have a large part in shaping the project as a whole. If you have an interest in pursuing graduate studies, then the research you take part in now may help you narrow your focus going forward or even directly lead into the thesis work you end up doing. It is a great option if you'd like to improve your technical skillsets, take on a leadership role in a much more independent setting when compared to an internship, and is in general a stand-out element on your resume for future employers to see.
While clubs, sports and Greek life are elements people include on their resume, a teaching assistant position or research with a graduate student or professor are highly technical and typically more relevant to the jobs you'll be applying to. Of course you should include any examples of leadership and community service, and if these examples help you shape that narrative on your resume, than include them as necessary.
I would also highly recommend connecting with professor's in general. They will be your first forms of networking in the industry (since many of them come from an industry position before teaching) and they will be a big help in getting you that first internship/job. Anything to stand out when it comes to asking for letters of recommendation in the future will be a great help. Best of luck!
Research opportunities on the other hand, add a great variety to your resume and give you the chance to experience a more real-world environment where you not only complete the work on your own with little oversight, but also have a large part in shaping the project as a whole. If you have an interest in pursuing graduate studies, then the research you take part in now may help you narrow your focus going forward or even directly lead into the thesis work you end up doing. It is a great option if you'd like to improve your technical skillsets, take on a leadership role in a much more independent setting when compared to an internship, and is in general a stand-out element on your resume for future employers to see.
While clubs, sports and Greek life are elements people include on their resume, a teaching assistant position or research with a graduate student or professor are highly technical and typically more relevant to the jobs you'll be applying to. Of course you should include any examples of leadership and community service, and if these examples help you shape that narrative on your resume, than include them as necessary.
I would also highly recommend connecting with professor's in general. They will be your first forms of networking in the industry (since many of them come from an industry position before teaching) and they will be a big help in getting you that first internship/job. Anything to stand out when it comes to asking for letters of recommendation in the future will be a great help. Best of luck!
Priyanka Lal
Consultant
2
Answers
Gurugram, Haryana, India
Updated
Priyanka’s Answer
Just remember, honesty and hard work are your best tools. Start by identifying the industry or job role that sparks your interest. As you're on the hunt for internships or jobs, it's crucial to emphasize the skills, projects, and courses that align with the company's needs. Next, make your sentences more dynamic by starting them with action verbs such as 'engaged', 'improved', or 'managed'. Lastly, don't underestimate the value of seasoned advice. Approach your professors, present your resume to them, and refine it based on their valuable feedback.
Angela A
Bank Teller/ Banker
24
Answers
Yonkers, New York
Updated
Angela’s Answer
Hi Huy!
Do you have any resources on your campus that you can use to help you edit your resume? Maybe a professor or career center can help you.
Find the internships you're interested in and tailor your resume to fit what the internships and jobs are looking for. Whatever words you see in the job description are words you're going to want to use on your resume.
Resumes are often reviewed by robots so you want to have keywords in there. For example, if a job description says we're looking for someone who is good at typing and filing forms. You will want to have something about that in your resume.
Try to make a LinkedIn so you can connect with recruiters and other professionals. You can message them and ask to meet them or have a zoom call with them so you can learn about different careers.
Good luck!
Do you have any resources on your campus that you can use to help you edit your resume? Maybe a professor or career center can help you.
Find the internships you're interested in and tailor your resume to fit what the internships and jobs are looking for. Whatever words you see in the job description are words you're going to want to use on your resume.
Resumes are often reviewed by robots so you want to have keywords in there. For example, if a job description says we're looking for someone who is good at typing and filing forms. You will want to have something about that in your resume.
Try to make a LinkedIn so you can connect with recruiters and other professionals. You can message them and ask to meet them or have a zoom call with them so you can learn about different careers.
Good luck!
Thanks, can't wait to put this advice into action!
Huy
Michelle M.
Entertainment Industry
1879
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Huy !
You are correct in knowing that getting experience will improve your resume. Getting your Bachelors Degree from California State University, Long Beach will also add an important resume education, too. In most cases, when people graduate college, most people will be looking for a job . You can do volunteer work or seek an internship, but you just may be able to enter a beginning job for your career. I have left a list of Indeed jobs that you can read to get an idea of how the field is in your area.
I would also advise that you create an account on Indeed and set your notifications for internships and employment for what you are seeking. Also create an account on Linked In or update your account with any new education or projects you've obtained. You can include volunteer work and freelance work on your resume, too.
Another good way to discover which companies are hiring is to contact the companies directly. I have left a link below with the names and contact information of companies in your area. Many companies in general usually have a "We're Hiring" or "Employment Opportunities" link on their website. I think it would be a good idea to check on the websites now and than to see which opportunities exist at which companies. Another way to find out about opportunities would be at your Engineering Department on campus. You can also ask your professors if there are any paid internships that they know of or any companies hiring.
I hope that this was helpful and I wish you well going forward !
MECHANICAL ENGINEER JOBS IN LONG BEACH https://www.indeed.com/jobs?q=Entry+Level+Mechanical++Engineer&l=Long+Beach%2C+CA&vjk=db8405e9ee038cf4
MECHANICAL ENGINEERING COMPANIES https://www.yellowpages.com/long-beach-ca/mechanical-engineering-companies
You are correct in knowing that getting experience will improve your resume. Getting your Bachelors Degree from California State University, Long Beach will also add an important resume education, too. In most cases, when people graduate college, most people will be looking for a job . You can do volunteer work or seek an internship, but you just may be able to enter a beginning job for your career. I have left a list of Indeed jobs that you can read to get an idea of how the field is in your area.
I would also advise that you create an account on Indeed and set your notifications for internships and employment for what you are seeking. Also create an account on Linked In or update your account with any new education or projects you've obtained. You can include volunteer work and freelance work on your resume, too.
Another good way to discover which companies are hiring is to contact the companies directly. I have left a link below with the names and contact information of companies in your area. Many companies in general usually have a "We're Hiring" or "Employment Opportunities" link on their website. I think it would be a good idea to check on the websites now and than to see which opportunities exist at which companies. Another way to find out about opportunities would be at your Engineering Department on campus. You can also ask your professors if there are any paid internships that they know of or any companies hiring.
I hope that this was helpful and I wish you well going forward !
Michelle recommends the following next steps:
Thanks for the help.
Huy
You are very welcome, Huy !
Michelle M.