You probably haven’t put a lot of thought into it yet, but it’d be wise to start planning out getting an internship while you’re early into your school career.
The Career Center
In addition to helping place you in on-campus jobs, the Career Center also helps students find off-campus opportunities and internships. Often people overlook this aspect of the career center and get left in the dust when it comes to finding that perfect summer internship. Don’t make that mistake; look early and often at the Career Center as their listings update throughout the year. So, if you’re looking to get more real-world experience, make sure to check out what they have to offer.
Your Academic Department
If you’re looking for an internship, chances are that there’s someone in your college or department who can help. Start by going to Canvas and checking for a community board designated for internships. Professors and academic advisors also have a wealth of knowledge and usually plenty of contacts that can provide you with extra resources. More often than not, these people are waiting to help you find a job because of the floods of emails they receive from professionals looking to hire students, particularly from Ball State.
Online Resources
There is a large wealth of resources you can take advantage of online. A simple online search can go a long way. Websites have a lot of opportunities that you can search from the comfort of your dorm room. Also, depending on the type of internship, you can begin searching and filling out internship applications straight from their website. If you use this tool, however, be sure to give the company a phone call to not only ensure they received your materials, but to let them know you’re interested. Some of our favorite online resources are listed as follows:
1. Ball State Daily Classifieds
2. Internships.com
3. Looksharp.com
4. Indeed.com
Career Coaching
Career coaches are here to invest in you and your goals. Luckily for you, the process to get in touch with one of them is really easy!
1. Log into Cardinal Career Link with your BSU email and password
2. Click on the Menu tab in the top left corner
3. Scroll down to “Coaching Appt”
4. Click “Request New Appointment”
The Washington Center
Forget interning in your hometown, how would you like to intern in Washington, D.C.? The Washington Center offers hundreds of internships for students of all majors every year. Here’s how to apply.
1. Contact Kyndra Haggard to discuss your eligibilty
2. Make sure you meet the academic requirements
3. Get the necessary application materials
4. Wait to be notified by the Washington Center
Other Tools
So, you know what internship you want, you just have to submit a resume and cover letter. You can find free templates online. You just have to pop your information in and make sure it looks finished and professional. There are also design classes and Lynda.com tutorials to help you create your own. If that’s not your style, there are also people on campus who love to help people design documents, so you could always befriend a designer.
