Internships are invaluable for students to gain more hands-on and practical experience in their field of study. In addition, it allows you, the student, to understand how the industry works and grow professional connections. Besides, most degree programs require you to complete an internship to qualify for graduation.
So, you are straight out of college, have never worked before, and need to find a place to learn. You probably have never experienced looking for a job. Finding an internship is just as challenging as finding a job.
So, where do you start? Where to look? If you are new to this, then below are a few guidelines from Just For College to help you get an internship with no experience:
Why Apply for an Internship in College?
Internships help students to gain practical experience in their careers. And sometimes, they translate to permanent employment, and if that is not the case, you walk away with something to include in your resume.
Other benefits of internships include:
- You get to explore a career path that you are interested in before choosing your major in college.
- Internships build your competitive edge in the job market.
- Through training, you can develop and refine your skills.
- If you land a paid internship, you receive financial compensation while gaining valuable work experience.
- An internship is the best place to forge connections with professionals in your field.
- Working in the industry, making mistakes, and learning helps boost your confidence as you test out specific techniques in your job.
- Finally, exemplary interns often get job offers from their employers. And even if it is not the right way, leaving a good impression on your boss gives you a better chance to earn a job in the future when an opening occurs.
Paid Vs. Unpaid Internships
Internships are of two main categories, paid and unpaid. Most internships are unpaid. It is because employers take up students to teach them. However, these unpaid internships follow strict labor laws.
For instance, an unpaid intern should not perform duties that a paid employee should complete. Some states even demand college credits for unpaid interns.
On the other hand, paid internships earn you some money and company benefits as you learn and gain experience in the industry.
What Internship is Right for You?
An internship is not just about working in a company. As a student, finding a great internship should be your goal. But, since you are searching for an internship with no experience, how do you know what internship is right for you?
According to Just For College, A great internship opportunity gives you the chance to acquire knowledge and skills relevant to your career.
Pair that up with a mentor, and you are sure to learn about the organization’s culture and improve your chances of success on the job.
Remember, compensation is not always a sign that the internship is good for you. Forming professional connections and gaining practical skills is better than earning some money.
Tips to Getting an Internship with No Experience
The good thing about an internship is that the employer already knows that you may not have any skills. That is why internships are entry-level jobs and learning experiences.
However, with the millions of students in college, finding a great internship opportunity becomes hectic and very competitive. So, here are our tips so you can land an internship with no experience.
1. Have an Impressive Cover Letter
Job seekers tend to decorate their resumes with their vast experience and knowledge to woo their employers. Well, this is what gives them their competitive edge.
However, the case is different for a college student or recent graduate who has never worked before. Their only achievements are the competitions won in school or a part-time job they took up to complement their income.
If that is the case, you can focus on the cover letter. Make it eloquent and build a strong portfolio with it. Note, this does not mean you should have a shabby resume.
No, it just means you put in some effort in creating an impactful cover letter that captures the attention of your prospective employer. Put in your soft skills and what you aspire to be in your career field to fill up those empty “experience” sections.
2. Apply to a Wide Variety
Never sell yourself short. So, when applying for an internship, send out your resume to as many places as you can.
It raises the possibility of getting an internship with no experience. Besides, being fresh out of college gives you unlimited chances to pursue your dream job.
3. Volunteer or Join a Club
No one expects an intern to be proficient in their field of study. That is an expert’s job. However, it is always good to have something to show, to give you an upper hand. One way to gain such an advantage is to volunteer or join a club.
Joining a club or volunteering shows your employer that you can study and work hard. In addition, they show that you are an active student who can help others while remaining focused on their goal.
Besides, being a club member equips you with skills that could come in handy when pitching yourself to your prospective employer.
4. If you Have a Connection, Use it
Sometimes, who you know is more beneficial than what you know. With a proper network, you can easily land an internship with no experience. It’s accessible from your network, whether paid or unpaid and when you should apply.
And these connections are easy to build. For example, in events where speakers are from different companies, take the initiative to talk to them.
Ask about their fields and some advice. It is a direct connection you make, which could help you land a great internship opportunity.
Finding an internship, and a great one at that is no walk in the park. There is a lot of competition, and the best you can do is present your case in the best way possible. Highlight your skills, the only ones relevant to the job, and use connections.
It also helps to be realistic. Know what you have to offer and what internship suits you best.
Remember, an internship is a learning opportunity given by an employer. And once you get in, show your employer they made the right choice by being active and helpful in the office.
