Not sure what to ask or how? Start here. No perfect plan needed, just a bit of reflection and one honest ask.
1) Before You Ask (60 seconds)
Some clarity and personal insight makes asking easier. Jot quick notes, no deep dives or essays required, just think about…
- Work that excites you:
Examples: “patient care,” “community health,” “UX research,” “data storytelling” - Where you’d like to be (setting/location):
Examples: “Seattle,” “clinic environment,” “mission‑driven nonprofit,” “research lab” - Skills/knowledge you want to build:
Examples: “Excel + dashboards,” “public speaking,” “basic lab techniques,” “grant writing” - Questions you need answered to decide your next step:
Examples: “Where do people find roles like X?” “What matters most on applications?” - Identify a 1‑line mission (optional):
Example: “Create connections in the healthcare field to learn about trends, roles, and summer opportunities.”
2) Who to Ask + Starter Questions
These are great, simple questions you could weave into an email or conversation! And remember to add a a thoughtful ‘thank you’ message. This helps express your appreciation for their time and consideration.
Professors
- “Do you know any former students or alumni who’ve used this major in interesting ways?
- “What has been your experience, how did you become interested in this field?”
- “If you were in my shoes, what’s one thing you’d explore right now if you’d want to pursue opportunities in industry, research, or academia?”
Academic Advisors
- “I’m starting to think about summer, what’s one resource you’d recommend? Is there a research lab or hands-on course that you recommend for this major?”
- “What’s a good first step for someone exploring internships in this major? Do you know of opportunities any former students recommended or completed?”
- “Are there campus events or tools I should check out? Are there any upcoming events hosted by the department or relevant RSOs?”
Career Center Staff
- “I’m starting to think about summer, what’s one resource you’d recommend to support with the internship search?”
- “What’s a good first step for someone exploring internships in general? I’ve sent off resumes but haven’t landed an interview yet.”
- “Are there employer events or career resources I could use to help me network or learn about a specific industry?”
Alumni / Professionals (LinkedIn, alumni directory, panels)
- “What’s one thing you wish you knew before your first role out of college?”
- “How did you know what kind of internship to look for? Should I focus on opportunities related to the industry or those that build core skills?”
- “What skill helped you most early on to build a network or explore different interests?”
Peers / Student Leaders / Mentors
- “What’s one resource you used that actually helped? I know I want an internship but don’t know where to start.”
- “If I want something low‑commitment to try this month, what would you pick? I want to build my resume but there are so many things to do on campus.”
- “Any clubs, labs, or projects you’d recommend for someone new to this? Or any advice on how to reach out to programs on campus to learn more?”
