How do I find internships in my field?
My college Graphic Design program requires me to have at least one internship. How do I reach out and find companies and programs with internships in my career field? #internship #graphic-design #art
4 answers
Cuong’s Answer
Hey Alexis, the first thing is, if your major program requires you to have an internship. You should of received some sort of list that they gave you. If you don't remember, you can just find talk to your major supervisor. Someone in your department will guide you to where and who are you suppose to talk to. But, it doesn't necessary mean you have to do an internship on the list. If you can and want to pursue a certain company that you're very interested. Keep an eye out on their websites and on social media when it becomes available.
Jae’s Answer
Here are a few resources that I would recommend
- On Campus Opportunities - They typically work with your school schedule every semester and adjust as necessary.
- Professors are also a great resource that can connect you with a potential hiring manager/recruiter, especially if they previously were employed at a company you have high interest in
- LinkedIn. This is a great place not only to find opportunities, but also connect with those employed at a company/firm to understand what a typical day to day looks like.
- Upperclassmen - Sounds like the internship is part of the curriculum, hence others who have been part of the same curriculum would also have to participate. If the upperclassmen has already graduate, LinkedIn has a filter tool to help you find those who went to the same university/college/school as you. Connecting with alumni in the same career path is also a great way to start!
Gwendolyn’s Answer
Ellen’s Answer
Hi Alexis
I'm thinking that if your department is requiring you to do an internship, that they probably have a list of places they recommend you contact, or places where previous students have interned. So, if you have not done so already, talk to your professors, talk to students who have done internships already, or talk to the department secretary/administrator. Why reinvent the wheel, so to speak?
If no one has a list or suggestions (and I would be very surprised at this), do as the previous answer suggests, start finding places on your own in the city or town where your school is located. Be professional about it....wether you contact via email or snail mail, write a cover letter explaining what you need, include a resume (however short...remember that babysitting job you had in high school is a valid work experience), line up people to serve as references if requested (teachers, former employers etc.); investigate the place online and visit their website if they have one; try to get a name to address your email or letter, so it will receive more immediate attention; and if and when they ask for it, get together a small portfolio of your best artwork.
Don't give up, it may take a few requests before someone responds. Whenever you interact with your proposed internship site, be sure to show some enthusiasm, like you are doing this because you really want to learn from interning at their studio, not just because it is a requirement.
Best wishes! Having an internship experience will be a huge boost to your future career!