Internship Resources

How do I get an Internship?

For assistance in finding an internship or other professional summer experience, make an appointment with a career counselor in the Center for Career Opportunities – Science Division, Math 231, (765) 494-1771.

1) Create a resume. Most internship applications will include a request for a resume.

2) Start Early. There are several ways to find a professional experience. Getting started early is very important. This means beginning your search during the Fall semester for a summer internship. Most opportunities are aimed at students finishing their sophomore or junior years; however, it isn’t unusual for the assertive freshman to obtain an internship. You can at least begin looking for future possibilities during your freshman year.

3) Use the resources listed to get information and apply for positions.

4) Network. Students locate internships by cultivating relationships with:

Faculty – Often have a network of professionals within academia and industry.
Family – Find out if your parents, siblings, or other relatives know someone working in an industry or organization in which you are interested.
Peers – Seek out other students who have had successful internship experiences and ask for advice and contacts.
Alumni – The Alumni Association has a list of Alumni Club contacts in major cities.
Professional Associations – Joining a professional association can help you form invaluable relationships with professionals who have experience in your areas of interest.

5) Meet with a career counselor to ensure that you’re exploring all of your options and get assistance with resumes, networking techniques, and interviewing skills.

6) Strengthen your interviewing skills. Usually a strong resume and/or application will get you an interview, but it is often the interview that will determine whether you receive an offer for the internship.

7) Follow up. If you have not been contacted for a reasonable amount of time after you have applied, it is acceptable to call or e-mail to let them know you are still interested in the internship. Always send thank you notes after an interview.