The Internship Program
So tell me about your work experience?
Did you know...
- Internships provide valuable work experience. One criteria for many employers when hiring graduates for full-time positions is "related work experience".
- Many internships are paid, however, the value of the internship, paid or unpaid, is priceless.
- 50-60% turn into full-time jobs at graduation.
- You can try out your interest in a career or industry.
- Internships typically last 8-12 weeks and are 10-15 hours a week.
The Internship Program
The Career Development Center (CDC) Internship Program helps students find internships.
We do not place students, but we will help you prepare and present yourself professionally so that you will be highly competitive.
Through an internship, you are able to integrate academic learning with practical on-the-job experience related to your career goals.
Internships offer valuable work experience that will "springboard" you into a career at graduation. In addition, internships allow you to try out your interest in a career or industry before graduation.
Preparing for an Internship
- Attend a Resume Workshop and write a professional resume. Find out what your transferable skills are!
- Attend an Interview Workshop and discover the keys to successful, panic-free interviewing. Learn how to identify your “Kodak Moments” and put them into accomplishment statements. Find out why “doing your homework” by thoroughly researching the company will give you the edge over other candidates.
- Drop by or phone the CDC to get the monthly workshop schedule.
- Can’t attend a workshop? Make an appointment (x4600) with a counselor.
- Many internships are open to all class levels, although some internships do require junior or senior level standing & upper division classes.
Finding an internship
- Search our Internship Listings on SMCnet.
- Check our binder of internships in the CDC.
- Check www.MonsterTrak.com.
- Internship web sites - These are websites of hundreds of Bay Area companies and organizations that offer internships in four broad categories: Business, Liberal Arts, Science, and Non-Profit.
While there is a great deal of information available, you must be persistent in your search. Have a plan that includes a great resume and cover letter, appropriate follow-up,good recordkeeping, and detailed knowledge about the company or organization to which you are applying.Be prepared, flexible and professional. It's up to you to make all your contacts count.
When to start your search
If you mean during which year of academic study, the second semester of your freshman year is not too soon. Then, depending on you major, GPA, and course load requirements, you may be ready to intern.
If you mean at which point during the year, the CDC continually posts Internship Listings on SMCnet. It's best to begin your internship search the semester prior to your desired placement.
Some internships have deadlines the semester before the placement, so plan early. That way, you'll have time to respond to listed positions. Lead time can also give you a competitive edge when it comes to composing an effective resume and cover letter.
Start early. Don't make the mistake of waiting too long.
