Consider An Internship
An internship provides an opportunity to use the knowledge you have learned in school and gain practical career related work experience within your chosen industry. Your future employers are interested in your education, but they also want to see that you can support your education with strong and applicable work experience that demonstrates your ability to understand their industry as well as the world of work. Several of the majors at CSUF require an internship as part of the graduation requirements. Whether required or not, every student should have at least one internship experience before graduation.
The Benefits of an Internship
- Get your foot in the door of a company for which you would like to work
- Gain valuable career-related experience
- Explore areas of interest
- Network with industry professionals
- Increase employment and/or graduate school opportunities after graduation
- Build a strong résumé with relevant experience
- Increase your marketability upon graduation
- Obtain letters of recommendations or strong references
- A possible job offer
Often, interns are exposed to many of the same opportunities and challenges as a regular full-time employee. You will experience what it is like to work in a professional environment, learn the company culture, and interact with other career professionals. An internship will certainly help you in your school-to-work transition. Some industries (advertising, public relations, writing, photography, animation, graphic design, and entertainment) are so competitive that you need an internship in that field, in addition to an appropriate degree, to be employable after graduation.
Turning your internship into a full-time opportunity
If you want to turn your internship into a full-time opportunity, attitude is key!
General attitude, cooperativeness, and enthusiasm are what employers are looking for in a candidate who is just starting out.
Distinguish yourself as a cut above the competition by...
- Taking on new or extra projects and assignments
- Getting to know your co-workers, supervisors, and the company culture
- Asking questions when in doubt
- Communicating with enthusiasm
- Asking for feedback about your performance
- Making the most out of your internship experience
- Communicating your career goals and plans
- Willingness to learn from others
- Staying in contact with the connections you make