What Has Changed?
In pre-pandemic times, the internship process has always been done in person; interviews, networking and also recruiting on campus. However, even in post-COVID times some of the recruiting processes for internships have now moved to be done virtually.
This includes video interviews and having to network with people online and trying to create those personal connections through a screen. Keep in mind that the employers are still consistently seeking the same types of skills during this new era.
“As of right now I prefer in person internships because we are entering our third year of Covid-19 and sometimes you are not going to get that internship experience until you do it in person,” said Kiara Taylor, (junior, Music Education).”
1. Specify What You Are Applying For
Before starting anything else ask yourself what type of work am you looking for? Is it part-time, internship, full-time? What industry? This could be business, health care, accounting, media. What kind of environment? This ranges from travel or no travel, local or out of state. Also, what kind of company culture, conservative, start-up, etc.
2. Job/Internship Search
The job search can be the most stressful part of this entire process. Many people get overwhelmed and do not know where to start their search. A few places that have been known to be great for searching are through Linkedin, Indeed or for Stanislaus State Students you can check out HireStanState.
3. Market Yourself Correctly
Once you’ve found your potential job or internship selections it is time to market yourself. Preparing your marketing materials is essential and some may say the most important tool to get you that interview.
Resumes can be tedious but a few things to remember to include are your education history, experience, skills and other course projects that are based on the position’s description. Cover letters are often asked to be included with your resume. This should not be a repeat of your resume but rather gives you an opportunity to show who you are and what you can contribute. Your online presence also plays a big role when marketing yourself.
“94% of recruiters use some form of social media to recruit or research their candidates,” explained internship workshop speaker, Jaskaran Dhesi.
Therefore, remember to keep your social media private or do not post anything that you feel may jeopardize your chances of getting that job.
4. Network
Building and managing your network is what is going to increase your chances of getting that internship or job you have been looking at. Now you may wonder how can someone network while sheltering in place? Even before the pandemic people have been able to network online through websites like LinkedIn. Here you are able to join groups, follow companies of interests, endorse yourself and even seek recommendations.
5. Asses and Adapt
Of course, we are all different and some ways may work for you and be different for others. Figure out what works best for you and also be flexible to make changes in your process.
“I do believe that internships are important to do while completing your undergraduate degree. You are learning about it (major) but are also getting to apply the things you learned,” said Taylor.
If you are still unsure if you want an internship or job during your college experience you can always ask for help and opinions at our Career Center. Here at Stanislaus State, there are many people and resources available to help you. Their virtual walk-in hours are Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday or are available by appointment.
Contact Information:
(209)-667-3661
