Posted February 25th, 2008 by cheesman

Although summer may still seem far away to many college students, now is the time to begin looking for an internship program. Since the three month break is the most popular time for students to take on an internship there is often more competition, making it necessary to begin the search a few months ahead of time. 
   
To begin with, college students who hope to take on internships should meet with their campus career center. Aside from giving resume critiques, these centers usually know about a good number of internships in the area. It is also a good idea to speak with one’s advisor and other professors who work in one’s major concentration. These individuals often know others in similar fields outside of academia and are privy to information about which companies are looking for new employees or interns.
     
It is particularly important to talk to one’s advisor if they wish to receive  college credit for an internship, since these professors are required to stay up to date on campus policy. In many cases a student will be expected to participate in some form of independent study or must forgo payment in order to receive credit.
   
Most students who chose to take on an internship are either in their junior or senior year of college. Since many employers prefer students who have taken several classes in their major concentration, this is understandable. Nevertheless, plenty of students in their sophomore or freshman year are able to locate companies that are glad to give them some experience. In fact, internship programs specifically geared toward high school students are beginning to become popular. 
   
Looking for in an internship program in one’s sophomore year is particularly important for those students who hope to be able to intern with more than one company during college. By starting to apply for programs this early, one always has an extra two summers to fit in an internship if they are unable to locate one on their first try.
   
Remember, if unable to find a summer internship, there are always other options. Many companies have year round internship programs, which are often less competitive during the school year due to fewer applicants. Another bonus to fall and spring internships is that they often require less time in the office since employers understand that school is in session.

The average non-summer internship usually requires that an individual be able to work 8 to 15 hours a week, where as programs that take place during the break often require that the intern put in a full 40 hours.