If your answer is “yes”, then the second year can be the first solid step towards an internship for you. The second year of college represents the time when you have stabilized in your studies and are now ready to strengthen the foundation of your career. In such a situation, if you get an internship at this time, it can prove to be a game changer for your future.
In this article, we will learn how to do an internship in the second year of college, what are its benefits, and what steps you can follow to get your dream internship.
Benefits of doing an internship in the second year
Internship is not just a means to get a job, but also a platform to prepare yourself for the business world. Let’s know what can be the benefits of doing an internship in the second year:
Gaining practical experience
Going beyond theory and gaining practical knowledge is the real learning. Applying what is learned in the classroom to real life situations is the biggest benefit of internship. This experience deepens your understanding of the subject and gives a new perspective to studies.
Refining skills
In case of internship, you do not only acquire technical expertise (in terms of programming, data analysis, content writing, etc.), but also train soft skills (communication, teamwork and problem solving). These things will render you unique and exceptional among others in securing an employment in the future.
Exploring career options
If you gain experience by doing internship in different fields in the second year itself, then it helps you understand in which direction you should go. This helps you identify your interests and strengths and take the right decision regarding your career.
Competitive edge
When you start internship earlier than others, you have experience that makes your resume different from others. This strengthens your profile and companies feel that you are a person with proactive and industry exposure.
Full-time job prospects
Sometimes companies offer full-time jobs to their interns after graduation. If you have done well and the company likes your work ethic, you already have the option of a permanent job.
Step-by-step instructions on how to get an internship in the second year of college
Now that we understand how important an internship is, let’s now know how to get one:
Step 1 Find out what your career interests are
The first position in the procedure of acquiring an internship comes in querying yourself a question: What do you like? In what field do you want to work in? Depending on your interests and preferences, get yourself an internship in the design, technology, marketing, writing, or in the financial field.
Some questions you can ask yourself are:
- What skills do you want to learn from this internship?
- What did you like about a previous internship or experience?
- What field excites you?
- How will this internship align connection with your future career goals?
- Where do you hope to self-improve?
Step 2: Get a resume and cover letter that will blow employers away
The first image is made by your resume and cover letter. The more impressive they are, the greater your chances of selection.
Resume tips:
Make it in clear and concise language.
Clearly show your studies, projects, skills, and any work experience.
If you have done any online course, workshop or training, then definitely mention it.
Cover letter tips:
- Explain in the cover letter why you want to do an internship in that company.
- Also write how your skills are suitable for that role.
- Personalize the cover letter, do not copy-paste.
Step 3: Networking – Make connections
Networking plays a huge role in getting an internship. Use your seniors, professors, alumni network and social media platforms (like LinkedIn). Connect directly with the HR of companies and ask them about internship opportunities.
You can also:
- Attend college events
- Attend industry webinars and workshops
- Be active in online forums
Step 4: Apply on online platforms
Nowadays there are many great platforms where you can apply for internships online, such as:
- Internshala
- LinkedIn Internships
- LetsIntern
- Twenty19
- Indeed
- Glassdoor
Whenever you apply for an internship, read its job description carefully and prepare your cover letter and resume accordingly.
Step 5: Prepare for the interview
The key to success in an interview is preparation. You should keep your introduction well prepared. Also, describe your projects and skills with confidence.
Tips to prepare for the interview:
- Give a mock interview
- Think of answers to common questions (Tell me about yourself, Why this company?, etc.)
- Research about the company
- Keep a portfolio or sample work ready (if required)
Step 6: Take feedback and improve
If you don’t get selected for an internship, don’t be disappointed. Learn from that experience and know where you went wrong. Take feedback and try better next time.
Conclusion
Getting an internship in the second year means that you have taken a serious step towards your career. It is not just a job opportunity, but a way to identify yourself, learn and become a professional.