Exploring & Finding Internships

An internship can help shape your career trajectory, expand your professional network, build your resume, and bolster your chances of securing meaningful employment after graduation. Students who benefit the most from internships are intentional in their internship planning. Below are some things to consider before you start your internship search.

What is an internship, really?

  • Short-term gig (usually a quarter or two) where you get real-world experience in a workplace.
  • Unlike a typical part-time job, internships are all about learning and growing your skills.

What Do You Want from an Internship?

  • Learn something new or level up a skill you’ve just picked up.
  • Put your classroom knowledge to work in the real world.
  • Try out a new industry, sector or work environment.
  • Test-drive a career path you’re curious about.
  • Get your foot in the door at a company you admire.

Let’s Talk Logistics

  • Most internships pay, some don’t. How important is a paycheck to you?
    • Unpaid internships increase inequity. Our stance is that all for-profit employers on Handshake must pay their interns.
  • Want to earn academic credit for your internship? You can (and it won’t keep you from getting paid).
    • Earning credit is optional for domestic students. International students on F-1 visas must enroll in academic credit as part of work authorization requirements.
    • Your employer cannot require you to register for credit as part of your job offer- the UW determines whether your internship meets criteria for being a credit-worthy experience.

Timing Is Everything

  • There is no “perfect” time to start – but sophomore or junior year is a sweet spot.
  • Internships can happen year-round. Where can you fit in 10-15 hours a week?

Where to Find Internships

  • Check out job boards, employer websites, career fairs and referrals.
  • Or pitch your own! Reach out to an organization you love with an internship idea.

Get Your Materials Ready

  • Polish your resume, cover letter, intro email and thank-you note.
    • These documents matter – a lot! Make sure they’re in a simple format, clear, and tailored to each opportunity.

Crush the Interview

  • Learn what makes a great interview: research the company, prep your answers, and know your value.
  • Practice out loud – solo, with friends, or with a career coach.

Evaluate the Opportunity

You got the offer – awesome!

  • Will you be doing meaningful work that actually helps the organization?
  • Does the employer seem invested in helping you learn & grow?
  • Can you truly commit to the hours required?