| I think internships are a great way to narrow down your career field. I started my first internship after my Freshman year and took a second my Sophomore year (both unpaid). I interned two days a week and worked as a nanny in the evenings and weekends (had to make money somehow).
I found a paid internship the summer after my Sophomore year, and then finally got my dream internship in January working at a consulting firm. In the process I gained work experience at a non-profit, in a government office, and now in the private sector. Knowing what I like and dislike in office environments is really going to give me a advantage in finding the right job out of college. Not to mention, I am already miles ahead of those students who are just now finishing up their first internships as rising seniors. I have established a solid network and I am now blessed with both a great job and a workplace that is a perfect fit.
Networking is key. I come from a solid school (American University), but my office recruits from the Ivies. I had someone send my resume around the office and after a round of interviews, was offered a position. It's all about getting your foot in the door. Once you are there, you have to bust your a** twice as hard to prove that you were worth hiring. |