9 answers
Gabriel
Student
Minot, North Dakota
2
Questions
Updated
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Are there particular internship opportunities you should prioritize while in college for Computer Science?
I'm planning out my first real internship at the moment, but I'm having a hard time picking from the opportunities available to me. I've heard "pick something local" for a potential job opportunity, but I've also heard "the bigger [the Org.] the better," because it's more notable on your resume. Does anyone have a fail-safe rule to go by? Or maybe an alternative perspective? #Fall24
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9 answers
Adit Sheth
Senior Software Engineer
134
Answers
Bellevue, Washington
Updated
Adit’s Answer
Enhancing your career in Computer Science can be greatly influenced by selecting the right internships during your college years. Here are some empowering tips:
Pursue Your Passions: Opt for internships in fields such as software development, AI, cybersecurity, or data science that resonate with your career aspirations.
Aim for Giants and Innovators: Large corporations like Google and Amazon offer prestige and well-structured programs, whereas startups deliver hands-on, varied experiences.
Cultivate Your Skills: Choose roles that enable you to master sought-after tools such as Python, Java, or cloud computing, and to hone your problem-solving abilities.
Forge Connections: Seek out internships that offer robust mentorship programs or exposure to the industry.
Future Prospects: Look for opportunities that could potentially transition into full-time positions or contribute to impressive portfolio projects.
In the end, harmonize your personal ambitions with practical skills to fully capitalize on your internship journey.
Pursue Your Passions: Opt for internships in fields such as software development, AI, cybersecurity, or data science that resonate with your career aspirations.
Aim for Giants and Innovators: Large corporations like Google and Amazon offer prestige and well-structured programs, whereas startups deliver hands-on, varied experiences.
Cultivate Your Skills: Choose roles that enable you to master sought-after tools such as Python, Java, or cloud computing, and to hone your problem-solving abilities.
Forge Connections: Seek out internships that offer robust mentorship programs or exposure to the industry.
Future Prospects: Look for opportunities that could potentially transition into full-time positions or contribute to impressive portfolio projects.
In the end, harmonize your personal ambitions with practical skills to fully capitalize on your internship journey.
Jason White
Lead Product Manager- Network Security
80
Answers
Dallas, Texas
Updated
Jason’s Answer
Hey Gabriel,
There are potential pros and cons for either option you choose.
While it's very dependent on what you are seeking I'll provide a different perspective as (many moons ago) my goal was to intern at an industry leader and a Fortune 500 company.... however my first internship was at a small firm.
The goal of an internship is to learn and gain some valuable working experience. All internships aren't created equal and some will teach you more than others. People lean toward the bigger brands and names partially because they're recognizable, but also because they may have better known or more established internship programs. That said just because an internship or company isn't as well known doesn't mean that the experience that you gain will be less significant. Actually think of it as if you were to work at a small start up since they don't have as many people you may have the ability to be much more hands on with decision making than you may in a much larger well known company. Again this is just hypothetical as I've heard good an bad stories both ways. I would focus on what you truly want to learn from an internship, and make it a point when meeting for interviews to ask questions that help you understand if the company will be able to help provide you with the experience you seek. I'm forever grateful for the internships I had and I'm sure you will be too.
There are potential pros and cons for either option you choose.
While it's very dependent on what you are seeking I'll provide a different perspective as (many moons ago) my goal was to intern at an industry leader and a Fortune 500 company.... however my first internship was at a small firm.
The goal of an internship is to learn and gain some valuable working experience. All internships aren't created equal and some will teach you more than others. People lean toward the bigger brands and names partially because they're recognizable, but also because they may have better known or more established internship programs. That said just because an internship or company isn't as well known doesn't mean that the experience that you gain will be less significant. Actually think of it as if you were to work at a small start up since they don't have as many people you may have the ability to be much more hands on with decision making than you may in a much larger well known company. Again this is just hypothetical as I've heard good an bad stories both ways. I would focus on what you truly want to learn from an internship, and make it a point when meeting for interviews to ask questions that help you understand if the company will be able to help provide you with the experience you seek. I'm forever grateful for the internships I had and I'm sure you will be too.
Sahida Khatun
Software Consultant and Analyst
87
Answers
Kolkata, West Bengal, India
Updated
Sahida’s Answer
Hi Gabriel,
You can use the following fail-safe rule to decide on your internship:
Fail-Safe Rule:
Choose an opportunity that:
Teaches you the most relevant skills aligned with your interests.
Challenges you to grow and improve.
Offers strong mentorship or networking opportunities.
Ensure your selected internship aligns with:
Your interests in computer science (e.g., AI, web development, cybersecurity, data science).
Your long-term career goals, whether it's freelancing, working at a tech giant, or starting your own company.
Also, consider any constraints such as location, remote work preferences, or timeline to ensure it’s a good fit for your circumstances.
You can use the following fail-safe rule to decide on your internship:
Fail-Safe Rule:
Choose an opportunity that:
Teaches you the most relevant skills aligned with your interests.
Challenges you to grow and improve.
Offers strong mentorship or networking opportunities.
Ensure your selected internship aligns with:
Your interests in computer science (e.g., AI, web development, cybersecurity, data science).
Your long-term career goals, whether it's freelancing, working at a tech giant, or starting your own company.
Also, consider any constraints such as location, remote work preferences, or timeline to ensure it’s a good fit for your circumstances.
Chinyere Okafor
Educationist and Counseling Psychologist
617
Answers
Port Harcourt, Rivers, Nigeria
Updated
Chinyere’s Answer
Hello Gabriel,
Choosing the right internship in college for Computer Science can be tricky, but there isn’t a strict “one size fits all” answer—it depends on your goals and interests. Here are some perspectives to help you decide:
1. Local vs. Big Name
- Local: If you want to build connections in your community or hope to land a job nearby after graduation, a local company might be a great choice. Smaller, local organizations can also give you more hands-on experience since you may take on broader responsibilities.
- Big Name: Interning at a well-known company can definitely boost your resume, but keep in mind that big organizations might have you focus on a smaller piece of the puzzle. However, the prestige and networking opportunities can be invaluable.
2. Learning vs. Impressing
- Prioritize Learning: Your first internship is about figuring out what you like (and don’t like) while building skills. Pick something where you’ll gain real-world experience in areas you’re curious about—whether it’s software development, data analysis, or machine learning.
- Resume Value: A bigger name on your resume might catch recruiters’ attention, but if you didn’t learn much or enjoy it, it may not help long-term.
3. Field Alignment
Think about what aligns with your future goals. If you want to go into game development, an internship with a gaming studio—even if it’s small—might be better than an unrelated role at a tech giant.
4. Company Culture
- Reach out to past interns or read reviews online (try Glassdoor) to get ideas for the work environment. A great learning environment can outweigh prestige.
5. Fail-Safe Rule
When in doubt, pick the opportunity that:
- Challenges you.
- Lets you apply what you’ve learned so far.
- Has room for mentorship (a great manager/mentor can make a big difference).
If you’re still undecided, remember that any first internship is a stepping stone. Don’t overthink it—what you learn and how you grow will matter more than where you do it.
Best wishes!
Choosing the right internship in college for Computer Science can be tricky, but there isn’t a strict “one size fits all” answer—it depends on your goals and interests. Here are some perspectives to help you decide:
1. Local vs. Big Name
- Local: If you want to build connections in your community or hope to land a job nearby after graduation, a local company might be a great choice. Smaller, local organizations can also give you more hands-on experience since you may take on broader responsibilities.
- Big Name: Interning at a well-known company can definitely boost your resume, but keep in mind that big organizations might have you focus on a smaller piece of the puzzle. However, the prestige and networking opportunities can be invaluable.
2. Learning vs. Impressing
- Prioritize Learning: Your first internship is about figuring out what you like (and don’t like) while building skills. Pick something where you’ll gain real-world experience in areas you’re curious about—whether it’s software development, data analysis, or machine learning.
- Resume Value: A bigger name on your resume might catch recruiters’ attention, but if you didn’t learn much or enjoy it, it may not help long-term.
3. Field Alignment
Think about what aligns with your future goals. If you want to go into game development, an internship with a gaming studio—even if it’s small—might be better than an unrelated role at a tech giant.
4. Company Culture
- Reach out to past interns or read reviews online (try Glassdoor) to get ideas for the work environment. A great learning environment can outweigh prestige.
5. Fail-Safe Rule
When in doubt, pick the opportunity that:
- Challenges you.
- Lets you apply what you’ve learned so far.
- Has room for mentorship (a great manager/mentor can make a big difference).
If you’re still undecided, remember that any first internship is a stepping stone. Don’t overthink it—what you learn and how you grow will matter more than where you do it.
Best wishes!
Michael Richtberg
Product management & engineering
19
Answers
Austin, Texas
Updated
Michael’s Answer
The main reason to pursue an internship is to gain hands-on experience in the real world. This experience can provide valuable insights into your preferred career path, helping you understand what you truly enjoy doing. It also allows you to apply your academic knowledge to practical business challenges. You might even uncover a new passion that could shape your career after college.
When choosing a company for your internship, reflect on what you hope to gain from the experience. Consider the kind of "test run" you want to undertake. Seek out opportunities that allow you to develop and utilize your skills. While the reputation of the company is an important factor, it should not be your primary focus unless you are certain that a specific company is your ideal post-graduation employer. If you have a particular company in mind, securing an internship there could indeed pave the way for future job offers.
Regarding the choice between larger and smaller companies, each has its own advantages and disadvantages. Larger companies typically offer a wider range of internships, while smaller ones might provide specialized roles or closer mentorship.
Research the companies
Talk to other students that went through internships about their experience
Ask candidate companies what they do to pair you with mentors
Be honest with yourself about being uncertain about changes occurring and don't be affraid to ask/interview the company about things that they anticipate about technology changing jobs (e.g., AI)
It's ok to feel a bit appreciation about the future. Use the intership as a discovery step. Enjoy it. Extract knowledge from it. Be curious!
When choosing a company for your internship, reflect on what you hope to gain from the experience. Consider the kind of "test run" you want to undertake. Seek out opportunities that allow you to develop and utilize your skills. While the reputation of the company is an important factor, it should not be your primary focus unless you are certain that a specific company is your ideal post-graduation employer. If you have a particular company in mind, securing an internship there could indeed pave the way for future job offers.
Regarding the choice between larger and smaller companies, each has its own advantages and disadvantages. Larger companies typically offer a wider range of internships, while smaller ones might provide specialized roles or closer mentorship.
Michael recommends the following next steps:
James Patterson Wicks
Cyber Security Leader
14
Answers
West Orange, New Jersey
Updated
James Patterson’s Answer
While choosing a local internship may be convenient, selecting an internship at a company where you hope to work after graduation is often the smarter choice. If you demonstrate productivity and value as an intern, you increase the likelihood of securing a job opportunity upon graduation. Employers benefit by reducing uncertainties, such as assessing culture fit, work ethic, and training costs, when hiring former interns. Additionally, your familiarity with the company's processes and environment allows you to hit the ground running in a full-time role. Investing in the right internship can set the foundation for a successful career.
Jeff Sloan
Software engineer - firmware Retired
106
Answers
Updated
Jeff’s Answer
Hi Gabriel,
Great question and you have already received lots of great advice so I won't reiterate. But, I do want to make one critical point. When you are interviewed for a position make sure you ask about the actual job you will be performing, your exact responsibilities.
In technology, I've worked at companies where interns were expected to develop code, test and release into production. I've also worked for companies where interns were expected to get coffee and pick up lunch for a meeting. You really want the former! Like someone else said, you should be challenged!
You want to walk away from an internship with valuable skills and experience! You also want to walk away with the possibility of future employment once you graduate. Try to work for a company that you might want to work for down the road. The contacts and connections you make are invaluable!
Good luck!
Great question and you have already received lots of great advice so I won't reiterate. But, I do want to make one critical point. When you are interviewed for a position make sure you ask about the actual job you will be performing, your exact responsibilities.
In technology, I've worked at companies where interns were expected to develop code, test and release into production. I've also worked for companies where interns were expected to get coffee and pick up lunch for a meeting. You really want the former! Like someone else said, you should be challenged!
You want to walk away from an internship with valuable skills and experience! You also want to walk away with the possibility of future employment once you graduate. Try to work for a company that you might want to work for down the road. The contacts and connections you make are invaluable!
Good luck!
Aman Kumar
Software engineer
161
Answers
Hyderabad, Telangana, India
Updated
Aman’s Answer
Hi Gabriel,
Choosing the right internship can feel overwhelming, especially in a field like computer science where opportunities abound. Rather than getting caught up in whether a company is big or small, consider prioritizing internships that align with your career goals and interests. For example, if you’re interested in artificial intelligence, seek out local startups or established companies in North Dakota that specialize in that area. An internship at a smaller company often means you’ll have more hands-on experience and can take on substantial projects, which can be very appealing to future employers.
Additionally, keep in mind the power of networking. A local opportunity could lead to long-term relationships that help you find future positions post-graduation. You could explore internships with companies like Bobcat Company in Bismarck or even software firms in Fargo which are looking for interns. What’s most crucial is that the experience enriches your skills and builds your resume, regardless of company size. So, focus on what you will learn, the projects you’ll work on, and the people you’ll meet along the way. Good luck on your search!
Choosing the right internship can feel overwhelming, especially in a field like computer science where opportunities abound. Rather than getting caught up in whether a company is big or small, consider prioritizing internships that align with your career goals and interests. For example, if you’re interested in artificial intelligence, seek out local startups or established companies in North Dakota that specialize in that area. An internship at a smaller company often means you’ll have more hands-on experience and can take on substantial projects, which can be very appealing to future employers.
Additionally, keep in mind the power of networking. A local opportunity could lead to long-term relationships that help you find future positions post-graduation. You could explore internships with companies like Bobcat Company in Bismarck or even software firms in Fargo which are looking for interns. What’s most crucial is that the experience enriches your skills and builds your resume, regardless of company size. So, focus on what you will learn, the projects you’ll work on, and the people you’ll meet along the way. Good luck on your search!
Ruth Murphy, MS
Security Compliance and Assurance
9
Answers
Hillsboro, New Hampshire
Updated
Ruth’s Answer
Top is follow what you are passionate about. The company you pick should be one that excites you or at least allows you to focus on that passion. Yeah I know.. you many not know what you are passionate about.. well think about what do you like to do that is not a chore. then focus yourself on that thing and find a company that will allow you to work on that.
Some other thoughts here is get an internship where you are challenged to do something different. This is the time to explore what you may like to do. Often an internship allows you to be mentored. Ask lots of questions.
Some other thoughts here is get an internship where you are challenged to do something different. This is the time to explore what you may like to do. Often an internship allows you to be mentored. Ask lots of questions.