When to apply for next summer's internships?

SmithieandProud
Mon, 30 Nov 2009 13:29:20 +0000

One smart idea for first years I think is to consider interning somewhere around your home for your first summer. Even if it’s just a part time thing or for part of the summer (that might be better even, work part time, intern part time) it can be a much better idea than trying to deal with all of the headaches and difficulties that come with spending a summer away from home working (apartments, travel costs, etc. It’s overwhelming).

Parents can help a lot by thinking about their own contacts, particularly if their kids have never had jobs in offices before. Do you have friends that work in businesses or industries your kids might be interested in? Would those friends be interested in having free slave labor for a few days a week in the summer? Or if your friends aren’t interested/able/willing to commit to a full internship, maybe they would let your S or D shadow them for a week? Think about everyone you know, even if their offices don’t have official or developed intern programs. Lawyers, dentists, doctors in private practice, business owners, really all of your friends should be considered fair game

Having a low-key internship right off the bat I think is better than trying for something competitive the first time round. You get experience, you get to explore a new field, and you still get a little summer time to have fun. Plus it’s a lot cheaper to sleep at home and then Mom and Dad get to see you some in the summer as well.