For students interested in learning more about preparing for and applying for internships, you can

• Read further about Preparing for an Internship below
• Obtain a copy of our Getting an Internship brochure from the Student Development Office,
• Or talk to a career counselor and/or department advisor.

PREPARING FOR AN INTERNSHIP

1. Focus on your Career Interests and Goals Think about the area(s) in which you would be interested in working.  These fields may be directly related to your major or minor, or they may be different.  Do some self-assessment.  What are your strengths and weaknesses?  What new skills would you like to learn?  You can learn more about specific careers through the Occupational Outlook Handbook (www.bls.gov/oco).
2. Identify Internships

   •  You may also review other job site links and internship links.  Research the Peterson’s Internship Guides. 
   • Check with your academic department to see if they know of any available internships.
   • The College of Business Administration and Public Policy has its own internship coordinator and internship postings.
     Contact Carolyn Harris at charris@csudh.edu or call 310-243-3735. 
   • Network with faculty, family, co-workers, classmates, friends, and job fair employers.  Join a professional association.
   • Research internship books.
   • Check company Web sites for postings, or contact companies directly.

3. Apply for Internships

·       Check with your department to see what their internship policy is regarding academic credit.  Are you required to enroll in a particular class, or can you take independent study? 

·       Based on your self-assessment, the internship description, and company research, create a resume and cover letter that are tailored to the internship.

·       Create a timeline showing the company’s contact information, how and when you intend to contact them, and if there are any application deadlines.  Follow this timeline when sending your resume and following up with employers.

4. Prepare to interview

·       Research the organization online.  Be knowledgeable about their mission statement, history, services, leadership, and recent developments. 

·       Be prepared to address anything in your resume and cover letter.

·       Review the internship description, develop a list of potential questions, and practice your answers.

·       To refine your skills, attend an Interview Skills workshop (link to its month) or practice with a career counselor.

CSUDH Departments offering internship courses for credit, are listed in the Catalog

These will be referred to as “practicum,” internship,” “fieldwork,” or “cooperative education” courses.