9 answers
Jonathan
Student
Pasadena, California
1
Question
Asked
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Is it better to apply to many places for internships or focus on submitting personalized applications for a few places you are really interested in?
Some of my friends have told me that when applying to internships, especially in computer science, the thing that matters most is submitting a lot of applications and avoiding applications with required cover letters because they require too much time. Is it true the the most effective way to apply to internships in computer science is to just submit applications to as many companies as possible?
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9 answers
Michelle M.
Entertainment Industry
1879
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Jonathan !
I would like to share some tried and true advice with you about applying for internships. When applying for anything such as employment, college admissions, internships it is always best to spread your applications to as many places as possible. Definitely go the length of sending out many applications. This will increase your chances of hearing back from someone for an opportunity. You are interested in the job and each company you apply to is offering employment in your field, so it's not so much a company that you're interested in, you want an opportunity for an internship. Limiting it to only a few companies that you're interested in will limit your chances for an interview.
You should always include a cover letter with your resume, always. The reason I say this is that since the employer is just looking at paper or a screen, they don't know who you are, really. A cover letter gives you the chance to show a little of who you are as well as a chance to entice the employer into interviewing you. A less bothersome way to do cover letters is too have a basic cover letter in your file that you can modify based on the particular company and position. This does not take much extra effort or time. Many positions actually require a cover letter. If it is a job that asks you to send a resume via e-mail, copy and paste your basic cover letter content into the body of the e-mail.
You have a great advantage as you live in and very close to a large city so you have increased probability of getting to the interview stage. Even though you live near a major city and have this advantage, I would also advise anyone who lives in a small town to do the same. Cover all ground.
I hope this has been helpful and I wish you all the best in obtaining an internship that you will really love !
I would like to share some tried and true advice with you about applying for internships. When applying for anything such as employment, college admissions, internships it is always best to spread your applications to as many places as possible. Definitely go the length of sending out many applications. This will increase your chances of hearing back from someone for an opportunity. You are interested in the job and each company you apply to is offering employment in your field, so it's not so much a company that you're interested in, you want an opportunity for an internship. Limiting it to only a few companies that you're interested in will limit your chances for an interview.
You should always include a cover letter with your resume, always. The reason I say this is that since the employer is just looking at paper or a screen, they don't know who you are, really. A cover letter gives you the chance to show a little of who you are as well as a chance to entice the employer into interviewing you. A less bothersome way to do cover letters is too have a basic cover letter in your file that you can modify based on the particular company and position. This does not take much extra effort or time. Many positions actually require a cover letter. If it is a job that asks you to send a resume via e-mail, copy and paste your basic cover letter content into the body of the e-mail.
You have a great advantage as you live in and very close to a large city so you have increased probability of getting to the interview stage. Even though you live near a major city and have this advantage, I would also advise anyone who lives in a small town to do the same. Cover all ground.
I hope this has been helpful and I wish you all the best in obtaining an internship that you will really love !
Thank you so much for the advice! I didn't realize how important a cover letter was and will start creating a general one that I can tweak for applications.
Jonathan
You are very welcome, Jonathan ! :)
Michelle M.
Stuart Ort
Manage a team of software developers
32
Answers
Boca Raton
Updated
Stuart’s Answer
The secret to success lies in pursuing internships that genuinely spark your interest. Whether you apply to a handful or a score of them, the quantity is irrelevant. What's crucial is your enthusiasm for the project. If you lack interest, you're unlikely to fully benefit from the internship. Over the years, I've mentored numerous interns, and often, their passion (or lack thereof) is evident during the interview process. While I may not always be correct, enthusiasm is a key indicator of commitment.
Alongside your resume, some firms may request a project proposal. For instance, my company advertises several specific project-based summer internships. We review the proposed work plan and offer guidance if it doesn't align with our expectations. Following this, we may proceed with scheduling an interview.
Remember, the number of applications you submit isn't as important as your genuine desire for the role and your ability to manage your applications. So, stay focused, stay passionate, and success will surely follow.
Alongside your resume, some firms may request a project proposal. For instance, my company advertises several specific project-based summer internships. We review the proposed work plan and offer guidance if it doesn't align with our expectations. Following this, we may proceed with scheduling an interview.
Remember, the number of applications you submit isn't as important as your genuine desire for the role and your ability to manage your applications. So, stay focused, stay passionate, and success will surely follow.
Mohini Gupta
Solutions Architect
4
Answers
Gurugram, Haryana, India
Updated
Mohini’s Answer
Hello Jonathan,
Just a friendly reminder that when it comes to Computer Science internships, it's not just about the numbers. Here's your golden strategy:
Try to apply for about 10-20 internships: It's good to have options, but don't let it stress you out.
Pick out 5-7 companies that you'd love to work for: Spend extra time on these applications to make them shine.
Even for the more general applications, make sure they're top-notch: Show off your relevant skills and past experiences.
Don't forget to network and ask for feedback: Use your connections and seek advice to polish your applications.
Get ready for interviews: Practice makes perfect, so be ready to highlight your best qualities!
Always remember, a sincere interest and well-crafted applications will take you further than just sending out applications in bulk. Best of luck!
Just a friendly reminder that when it comes to Computer Science internships, it's not just about the numbers. Here's your golden strategy:
Try to apply for about 10-20 internships: It's good to have options, but don't let it stress you out.
Pick out 5-7 companies that you'd love to work for: Spend extra time on these applications to make them shine.
Even for the more general applications, make sure they're top-notch: Show off your relevant skills and past experiences.
Don't forget to network and ask for feedback: Use your connections and seek advice to polish your applications.
Get ready for interviews: Practice makes perfect, so be ready to highlight your best qualities!
Always remember, a sincere interest and well-crafted applications will take you further than just sending out applications in bulk. Best of luck!
Nitin Dhingra
Healthcare Transformation Consultant
3
Answers
Columbus, Indiana
Updated
Nitin’s Answer
Internship opportunities are frequently characterized by intense competition, with numerous candidates vying for a single opening. To boost your chances of securing an interview and, ultimately, landing an internship, it is advisable to submit applications for 10 to 20 internships every two or three weeks. Once you commence the interview phase, you can adjust your approach and apply more selectively. However, until you successfully secure an internship, maintaining an active search is essential, as you never know when the perfect opportunity may arise.
In addition to the above, do keep the following in mind. A common mistake that internship applicants make is sending the same cover letter and resume for each internship that they apply to. To increase the likelihood that you will get an interview for the internship, you should customize your cover letter and resume for every position you apply for.
Access Your Potential is an ecosystem of learning, support and connections for Black and Hispanic/Latinx college students, across all fields of study, as they explore their future careers. You will have access to mentorship with PwC professionals, paid consulting externships and free curriculums to help you grow and discover what you want for your career. Sign up to have access to these free programs here: accessyourpotential.pwc.com.
In addition to the above, do keep the following in mind. A common mistake that internship applicants make is sending the same cover letter and resume for each internship that they apply to. To increase the likelihood that you will get an interview for the internship, you should customize your cover letter and resume for every position you apply for.
Access Your Potential is an ecosystem of learning, support and connections for Black and Hispanic/Latinx college students, across all fields of study, as they explore their future careers. You will have access to mentorship with PwC professionals, paid consulting externships and free curriculums to help you grow and discover what you want for your career. Sign up to have access to these free programs here: accessyourpotential.pwc.com.
Thank you so much for the advice! I will start customizing my resume and cover letter for each internship application.
Jonathan
Justin Hails
Internal Audit Generalist
1
Answer
Detroit, Michigan
Updated
Justin’s Answer
Hi Jonathan! I can't explicitly state which to choose, but I can provide more insight on how internships can make an impact on your career development. Internships are a great introduction to professional work experience. They can provide career readiness and technological skills that can give you a leg up when starting professional career. Internships can also help you assess your strengths, values, passions, and purpose, as well as cultivate emotional intelligence and develop your storytelling skills. Internships can help students develop data skills through human-centered design, data analytics, and ethical use of technology. Internships are a great way to explore different career paths, gain valuable experience, and build a network of contacts.
A great way to introduce yourself is by applying to PwC's "Access Your Potential" career development experience. Access Your Potential is an ecosystem of learning, support and connections for Black and Hispanic/Latinx college students, across all fields of study, as they explore their future careers. You will have access to mentorship with PwC professionals, paid consulting externships and free curriculums to help you grow and discover what you want for your career. Sign up to have access to these free programs here: accessyourpotential.pwc.com.
A great way to introduce yourself is by applying to PwC's "Access Your Potential" career development experience. Access Your Potential is an ecosystem of learning, support and connections for Black and Hispanic/Latinx college students, across all fields of study, as they explore their future careers. You will have access to mentorship with PwC professionals, paid consulting externships and free curriculums to help you grow and discover what you want for your career. Sign up to have access to these free programs here: accessyourpotential.pwc.com.
Thank you for the advice and telling me about the PwC "Access Your Potential" career development experience!
Jonathan
Calvin Austin
Director of Techops
4
Answers
San Jose, California
Updated
Calvin’s Answer
The responses here are quite insightful and they're right about one thing: internship programs and applications for recent graduates attract a multitude of applicants. But don't worry, I have an insider tip to share with you.
Many applicants simply enumerate the courses they've taken and delve into some project work they've done. It can seem like all the applications are identical, but remember, you are unique! It's true that cover letters can sometimes be overlooked or misplaced, but if it's requested, make sure to include one.
What can truly distinguish you, though, is any technical work you've done outside of school. For example, contributing to an open-source project, even if it's just to assist others, or creating your own website or application. Giving a presentation at a user group or conference can also make you stand out.
FYI: I used careervillage AI to clean up my answer. Generative AI is so new, if you added that knowledge to your skills you will probably be way ahead of your interviewers!
Best of luck to you!
Many applicants simply enumerate the courses they've taken and delve into some project work they've done. It can seem like all the applications are identical, but remember, you are unique! It's true that cover letters can sometimes be overlooked or misplaced, but if it's requested, make sure to include one.
What can truly distinguish you, though, is any technical work you've done outside of school. For example, contributing to an open-source project, even if it's just to assist others, or creating your own website or application. Giving a presentation at a user group or conference can also make you stand out.
FYI: I used careervillage AI to clean up my answer. Generative AI is so new, if you added that knowledge to your skills you will probably be way ahead of your interviewers!
Best of luck to you!
Julian Del Castillo
Management Consultant
13
Answers
San Diego, California
Updated
Julian’s Answer
Hi Jonathan,
Applying to multiple internships increases the chances of securing an opportunity and provides a broader range of experiences. However, it is important to maintain quality in the application process.
Crafting one strong cover letter that can be tailored quickly to each role is a strategic approach. A well-written cover letter showcases your skills, experiences, and enthusiasm for the specific internship. By tailoring the cover letter to highlight relevant qualifications for each role, you demonstrate genuine interest and understanding of the position. This approach saves time while still allowing for personalization.
However, it is crucial to strike a balance between quantity and quality. Applying to too many internships may result in a lack of focus and dilution of effort. It is important to research and target internships that align with your interests and career goals. By selecting a few internships that truly resonate with their aspirations, you can invest more time and effort into tailoring their applications, increasing the likelihood of standing out among other candidates.
Best,
Julian
Applying to multiple internships increases the chances of securing an opportunity and provides a broader range of experiences. However, it is important to maintain quality in the application process.
Crafting one strong cover letter that can be tailored quickly to each role is a strategic approach. A well-written cover letter showcases your skills, experiences, and enthusiasm for the specific internship. By tailoring the cover letter to highlight relevant qualifications for each role, you demonstrate genuine interest and understanding of the position. This approach saves time while still allowing for personalization.
However, it is crucial to strike a balance between quantity and quality. Applying to too many internships may result in a lack of focus and dilution of effort. It is important to research and target internships that align with your interests and career goals. By selecting a few internships that truly resonate with their aspirations, you can invest more time and effort into tailoring their applications, increasing the likelihood of standing out among other candidates.
Best,
Julian
bo daley
7
Answers
Suffern, New York
Updated
bo’s Answer
Hello Jonathan,
I highly suggest tailoring your applications to fit various internships across multiple job sectors, effectively broadening your scope. Begin with a simple search on LinkedIn for internships, and I strongly urge you to delve into the exciting internship opportunities available at PwC. It's a great way to kickstart your career!
I highly suggest tailoring your applications to fit various internships across multiple job sectors, effectively broadening your scope. Begin with a simple search on LinkedIn for internships, and I strongly urge you to delve into the exciting internship opportunities available at PwC. It's a great way to kickstart your career!
Thanks for the advice!
Jonathan
Allisson Santos
Software Engineer
21
Answers
New Glasgow, Nova Scotia, Canada
Updated
Allisson’s Answer
Hello, Jonathan!
Starting in a new area could be overwhelming and you might get stuck into the "what's the best place to work" question.
My suggestion to you is simply to start working :) Submit applications to all the places you feel you can thrive and go on from there.
In the beginning, do not focus on working in the best companies and getting the best salaries. Focus on getting experience and knowledge.
Train your technical, communication and leadership skills. If you do that, experience and knowledge will follow, hence getting you to earn more and to work in the better places that you choose!
I hope I could help you somehow.
The best of luck to you!
Starting in a new area could be overwhelming and you might get stuck into the "what's the best place to work" question.
My suggestion to you is simply to start working :) Submit applications to all the places you feel you can thrive and go on from there.
In the beginning, do not focus on working in the best companies and getting the best salaries. Focus on getting experience and knowledge.
Train your technical, communication and leadership skills. If you do that, experience and knowledge will follow, hence getting you to earn more and to work in the better places that you choose!
I hope I could help you somehow.
The best of luck to you!
Thank you so much! I guess it's time to start applying and hope that I get into a place to start gaining experience.
Jonathan