Thursday, July 28, 2011

A guide to helping you plan your internship

The most important thing in the initial phase of planning your internship involves setting your learning objectives / career goals and putting together a job search plan that will lead you in a positive direction and towards an internship opportunity that will best suit your needs. Listed below are a few questions you should ask yourself before you even begin your internship search.

Develop an Internship Target

  • What are your career goals?
  • What skills do you need to strengthen in order for you to reach these goals?
  • How will your targeted internship help you to strengthen your skills?
  • What transferable skills do you have?
  • What would you describe as the ideal internship for you?

Prepare for your Internship Search

  • Register to use the CAPS Web site so you can browse the internship postings or search through directories of internships
  • Contact companies directly and ask if there are internships available
  • Network with people you know and make them aware of your goals (teachers, friends, family members, etc.)
  • Check government Web sites
  • Visit and register with Placement Étudiant
  • Check out internship resources at the Career Resource Center (H-440)
  • Get suggestions from the Outreach / Placement Officer at CAPS

Build your career portfolio

  • Take advantage of workshops related to job search techniques and strategies
  • Make an appointment to see one of our Placement Officers to get feedback on your CV and cover letter.
  • Contact references and make a list available to employers upon request
  • If your field of study requires you to have a portfolio, have it organized and available for viewing.

Set your priorities

  • Make a prioritized list of desired internships
  • Research the possibilities to the fullest extent
  • Determine the best way to apply for the internship position
  • Inquire if you are uncertain about requirements, eligibility or qualifications
  • Find out the contact person
  • Follow up on favorable responses

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