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Should I apply for internships without having experience?

I'm a freshman in college and am very eager to start doing internships and co-ops to find out what branch of computer science I want to pursue. The only problem is that I don't have experience yet but have some basic understanding on how different programs such as java, SQL and python run, which makes me feel discouraged.

computer-science internship undergraduate
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Amy’s Answer

Absolutely! Drawing from my own journey, I can assure you that the process of applying and interviewing is a valuable learning experience. It provides a deeper insight into the computer science interview process and offers ample practice. Remember, companies are well aware that their interns won't be experts or proficient in every aspect of programming. They're there to learn, after all. My personal internship experiences have significantly boosted my programming skills and understanding of the various processes involved in development. These are aspects that college courses alone may not fully cover. So, go ahead and embrace the opportunity - it's a stepping stone to a successful career in computer science!
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Ayodeji’s Answer

Yes you can. Well, this depends on the internship positions you're targeting. Some requires experience, while some don't.
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Ann’s Answer

Hi Nora!

The short answer is absolutely! The whole purpose of internships is to learn and gain experience needed for the work force.

It is true that some internships require you've completed certain courses before you apply, so it's important to read the description. However, the employer will likely hold interviews before selecting candidates. The worst case scenario is that you wouldn't be selected.

In otherwords, it doesn't hurt to apply.
Thank you comment icon I appreciate you taking the time to answer this. Nora
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james’s Answer

Hello! I'd definitely suggest looking into apprenticeships. This is a rapidly expanding field that enables businesses to discover promising individuals who may not have taken the traditional academic path.

I'm a huge advocate for this approach. My own journey began as an apprentice at HP, and 38 years later, I'm still with the company, enjoying a fulfilling career.
Thank you comment icon Thank you! Nora
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Abigail’s Answer

Yes! Yes! Yes! Here is an excerpt I published earlier this year in The Post.

"...[B]y some miracle, I was offered an internship as a freshman and two more as a sophomore, so here is what I am doing:

Do not expect a human to read your resume.

While I wish I could have a creative and photo-oriented resume, the plain, bulleted resume is the way to go. Often, if you apply to positions on LinkedIn, Indeed or Handshake, an AI platform will access your qualifications and read your resume first. Companies use AI to select top applicants from the hiring pool and then have a recruiter or HR representative look at it.

Apply like none other.

You will hear professors, advisors, and maybe even parents say, “Apply, apply, apply.” I hate echoing in on this, but actually applying is the first step in any application. If you do not you will not get anywhere.

Be extremely determined.

You will spend a copious amount of time simply filling out applications, and only a few will contact you for the next steps. Expect not to hear back from companies after interviews, and do not take it personally. In some cases, hundreds of applicants were interviewed, and only selected candidates were notified after the interviews. It is extremely frustrating, but do not give up, tackle rejection and perceive it as an opportunity to apply to more places.

Learn to find experience in your extracurriculars or current job.

In full transparency, most underclassmen do not have internships, and that is OK. Learn to find valuable, real-world experience in your extracurriculars– join the student newspaper to get bylines, ask for more responsibility at your job and find a way to display upward movement on your resume.

Good luck with your internship search, and if you have not already started, apply, apply, apply!
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Charles’s Answer

YES! Internships are how you get your first experience. Most internships require little experience, which is usually coursework related to the job. Internships also provide you with a real experience in the field you've chosen - if you don't enjoy it, finding out early is best!
Thank you comment icon I appreciate this, thank you for the advice. Nora
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Maria’s Answer

Definitely! It's a great idea to apply for internships even if you don't have any prior experience. This is because you'll acquire valuable experience while working there. Additionally, finding a mentor within the company can be extremely beneficial as they can guide you through the ins and outs of the organization.
Thank you comment icon Thank you, this is really helpful. Nora
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Chaitanya’s Answer

Yes, you should and once you get the internship, you must try your best to learn what the company has to offer.
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Dev’s Answer

Hi Nora!

You should definitely apply to internship regardless if you have the necessary requirements and qualifications. An internship can help you build your skills. Additionally, I would recommend looking online for some resources to improve your skills and applying them to personal projects.
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Heaven’s Answer

Absolutely, go ahead and apply for any internship that sparks your interest. From my personal journey, I can tell you that I didn't have any significant professional experience beyond my college education before I landed the internship I'm at now. I simply put to use all that I had learned and highlighted my eagerness to develop professionally. Most employers are on the lookout for individuals who are ready to put in the effort and whose values resonate with those of their company. A piece of wisdom I gained from my professor was to not become discouraged when faced with rejection, but rather to persist and keep striving. Moreover, in interviews, it's beneficial to have a good grasp of the basics and fundamentals. Remember, almost every job will provide you with the necessary training, all you need to do is be willing to learn and apply yourself.
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David’s Answer

Definitely!

Many internships are designed around the intern being very novice. My internship last year had two straight weeks of training before they set us out on real tasks. Internships are to show your character and culture fit, not your hard skills. Put your resume out there and good luck!
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