Many college students are often too busy juggling homework, family, friends and work that they often do not think about internships. In this economy, internships should be a top priority for college students. Having an internship on a resume gives recent graduates a competitive advantage over other college grads applying for the same jobs. Employers believe that many graduates without internship experience do not have the practical skills necessary to excel in the job market.  Internships are beneficial because they give students the experience and skills they cannot learn within a school setting. Below you will find helpful information about internships.

When is the best time to look for an internship?

The best time to start looking for an internship is before junior year. This gives students two years before they graduate to get an internship. It also gives students enough time to try out more than one internship to get more experience. Many companies start internships over the summer, so it is best to start your search as early as March to get a head start.

Where do you look for an internship?

The first place students should look is at their college’s career center. Many local companies will post internship opportunities there. Employers understand the importance of an internship and want to give college students the opportunity to apply first.  Also check websites such as Monster, Career Builder and Craigslist for other internship openings.

What should I be looking for in an internship?

When considering an internship, make sure it is in the field of work the student wishes to go into after graduation. Many majors have a list of career fields that students should consider working in with their degree. These types of internships will surround students with mentors that they can learn the ropes of the business from. Location is another factor you need to consider. The closer the internship is to the campus, the more hours students can put in. Also, being closer to internship makes it easier for students to work around your class and study schedule.

Do all internships pay?

Not all internship positions pay and by law, employers are not required to pay interns. Though whether an internship is paid or unpaid there are many things that students need to consider before they decide if an internship is worthwhile. What students should base the internship on is how much the experience is worth to them. Sometimes an internship is such a great opportunity that money does not matter. Realistically getting paid is a plus but it all depends on what your needs are at the time.

Benefits of an internship:

The most important benefit of an internship program is that interns have more experience and more likely to find a job after graduation. Internships teach students time management, discipline, and effective communication skills. A lot of the times internships can lead to a full time position. If a full-time position is not offered, students are able to build a social network of references from the people they worked with. These references can give the student letters of recommendations that could help them find work elsewhere. Lastly, internships can teach students more about what they like to do and what you don’t want to do.

Remember: It is a BIG mistake by not obtaining an internship, so make sure you squeeze one in while you still can!

It is that time of year again; graduation is in the air! Are you a student getting prepared to graduate from college or a recent grad ready for that first serious job? Do you need help in getting started? Well, you are in luck! Below are six tips you need to know to help you stand out from the rest and get the job!

Do Your Research

Always research the organization prior to submitting your resume and again before the interview. Knowing the company’s most recent projects and successes, such as awards and charitable actions, shows that you have done your homework. You can also set up Google Alerts for each of your top employment prospects for an easy way to stay up-to-date on their most recent news.

Think Broadly

Expand the number of fields you are considering working in. This will give you more job options when conducting your job search. Though, always remember you should try to find jobs that fit your qualifications and educational background. Companies do not waste time on those who are not qualified.

Tailor your resume

To get best results, tailor your resume to the job you are applying for. It only takes a few extra steps to customize your resume to fit the job description. Simple, generic resumes fail to catch the eye of recruiters and hiring managers. Remember to proofread at least three times to make sure that you do not have any grammatical errors on your cover letter and resume.

Highlight Educational Experiences

Many recent graduates do not have much work experience to put on their resume. Highlighting college courses and recent school projects that are directly relevant to the job will help make up for the lack of work experience. Always state what the project was about, what skills or methods were used and the outcome.

Build a Career Network

In today’s job market, it is all about whom you know, so start networking if you have not already. Ask everyone you know if they have any connections to the types of jobs you are looking for. It is also a good idea to set up informal interviews with professionals working in the fields you wish to go into after you graduate. This can help you determine if the job or career is right for you.

Use Social Media

Using social media correctly can help you increase your chances of getting a job. Clean up your social media profiles to make sure they are professional and ready for employer inspection. Focus on LinkedIn because it is the #1 website for job seekers and employers. Spending time mastering social media will be well worth the investment.

Use your college’s career office

If you are really having a hard time finding a job or getting an interview, your college career center might be able to help. College career offices are for current students and alumni. They are there to help you with your resume and interview skills. They can also help match you up with an interview.

Remember: stay positive, sell yourself, dress for success, be productive and never be afraid to ask for help!