Tips for Your Internship Search

The internship search process can undoubtedly be daunting. However, we’re here to help the whole process be smooth, successful, and even fun! Here are a few essential tips to get you started: 

Identify Your Interests and Keep an Open Mind

When you begin looking for an internship, don’t feel pressured to commit to just one path. Instead, explore broadly: reflect on your major, past experiences, or knowledge of other fields. Use platforms like Handshake, LinkedIn, or the CCI’s career community newsletters.  

Internships are for learning and so is the search process. Don’t limit yourself to the largest or most prestigious organizations right from the start—hidden gems with smaller teams could give you the hands-on experience and attention you need to build the necessary tools for the future. Some of the best experiences come from the most unexpected routes. And sometimes, we learn more about what we don’t want, which is just as important. 

Polish Your Application Materials

Before you start applying or reaching out, make sure you have a stellar résumé and cover letter ready to go at any moment. You never know who will ask you for materials and when. Be on your A-game and stay on top of things in case you need to attach them to an email.  

• Use the CCI’s résumé and cover letter resources to refine your materials. 
• Visit Quick Questions for further advice and official approval from student Peer Career Advisors. 
• Book an appointment with a specialized Career Advisor. 

We’re here to help, so make the most out of the incredible opportunities the CCI has to offer early on in your college career. 

Network Strategically

Once you’ve identified your fields of choice and your materials are approved, start reaching out to active professionals, Middlebury alumni, or personal connections through friends and family. It can be an intimidating process, but you’d be surprised at how many people are excited to help. Just like others opened doors for them, they want to do the same for you.  

• Use platforms like Midd2Midd, Handshake or LinkedIn to find the names and contact information of professionals involved in your career path of interest.  
• Cold messaging is encouraged, and pin down an email whenever you can.  
• Always reach out with a call to action. The best approach is to request to talk further over a call, and you can even suggest days and times to get the ball rolling.  
• Lastly, don’t wait to reach out until you have your eyes on a specific organization or internship program.  

It’s not only about the end goal. More importantly, it’s about building organic relationships and having trustworthy mentors. An informative chat over coffee or Zoom could transform into a dream opportunity as the relationship is nurtured. Be curious, be genuine, and be ready to learn above all else.  

Prepare for Chats & Interviews

So you’ve identified your interests, prepared your resume and cover letter, and sent countless messages and emails. Now it’s showtime.  

• Do your research for an explorative chat or official interview. Make sure you know as much as possible about the person, the company, and what is expected of you.  
• Put together an elevator pitch. 
• Plan thoughtful questions. Show that you’re passionate, excited, and prepared. Never leave without asking questions.  
• Take the lead if you’re the one reaching out. A rough agenda is fine, but you’ll leave the best impression if you are authentic and if it feels like a conversation rather than an interrogation.  

Exude confidence even if you’re nervous, and remember to end by asking for further contacts, other similar organizations, or opportunities you can apply for. If it goes well, indicate that you want to stay connected and make sure you maintain the relationship over time. Ask questions, send updates on other experiences, and show what you’ve learned. 

Hit Submit & Be Easy on Yourself

Eventually, your hard work will turn into tangible opportunities. You’ll have a few great calls, be directed to an application link, and submit your materials. This is where you wait and let it all sink in. Be proud and be easy on yourself! Securing the right internship can be a long and difficult road, but it’s also a beautiful one. You learn so much along the way and develop relationships that could last a lifetime. Things may not go exactly as planned, and that is more than fine. Remember that it’s only the beginning and that this is when you have the freedom to make mistakes, try something new, and discover what you truly want. It can only go uphill if you keep focusing on growing, improving, and staying true to yourself and your goals. Everything happens as it’s meant to. So take a deep breath and enjoy the journey as much as you can.