How to Land Paid Summer Internships for College Students

Updated on May 25th, 2024

Internships for college students are one of the best mechanisms for gaining valuable experience your student can use in the future. Getting a job after graduating can be easier if your student has a summer internship experience under their belt as it shows they can use their knowledge and skills in a real-world environment. Plus, an internship can help your student build their professional network, something else that may help them land a job when the time comes.

If you and your student want to learn more about where to find local scholarships and national awards, sign up for our free college scholarship webinar! Take a trip over to http://thescholarshipsystem.com/freewebinar to reserve your spot today.

While the experience gained through an internship is worth its weight in gold, many students can’t afford to take an unpaid internship. Luckily, there are paid summer internships for many college students around, though they are less plentiful.

Here’s a look at what it takes to land one.

HOW TO FIND PAID INTERNSHIPS FOR COLLEGE STUDENTS

A paid summer internship for college students isn’t as common as their unpaid counterparts. However, that doesn’t mean your student’s quest for a paid opportunity isn’t worth pursuing.

Fortunately, there are plenty of places to check for summer internship opportunities. Here are some of the best ways for students to start their search.

College Career Centers

Usually, the best place for college students to begin their search for a paid internship is through college career centers at their school. Career Services Offices or similar departments may have lists of available internships, and some schools even have their own portals students can explore, functioning as an alternative to physically going to a career center. Your student’s advisor may also have some information about paid internships for college students, so it is worth reaching out and asking for a hand.

Alumni Networks

Networking with other college alums can also be an effective approach. Many past graduates would be happy to help students from their alma mater if they can, so it never hurts to ask. Many colleges maintain alumni databases that are open to all students. Your student can explore past graduates who studied the same major, see where they are working today, and (if your student is interested in that organization) connect with them through the website.

Company Career Pages

Many major corporations that hire paid interns also list those first internship openings on their career pages. If your student has a few employers in mind, heading to each site and exploring their listings could help them spot paid summer internships for college students.

Career Fairs and Networking Events

Career fairs and networking events are another excellent resource for aspiring interns. Some schools host career fairs on campus to connect companies with students interested in finding internships. However, even those hosted in other locations are worth attending.

Internship Search Websites and Job Boards

There are also websites dedicated to internship opportunities. Internships.com is one of the bigger names in the game and lets your student search based on their major and preferred area.

In some cases, job boards also list internships. However, if your student uses that approach, they may have to sort through other positions that aren’t designed for interns to find something worthwhile.

It is crucial to note that paid summer internships for college students are not available in all industries either. Since larger corporations tend to have more of these opportunities, students studying finance, accounting, technology, medicine, or similar subjects will have better luck than history, art, or music majors.

HOW TO APPLY FOR SUMMER INTERNSHIPS FOR COLLEGE STUDENTS

College summer internships usually have application and screening processes similar to regular jobs. Your student will need to submit a resume or application, possibly answer a few essay questions or provide a cover letter, and usually will have to go through an interview process.

Once your student finds some paid summer internships that catch their eye, they need to read the instructions carefully before applying. Each company may have a unique application process, and not following the directions is a quick way to end up removed from contention.

Since paid summer internships aren’t as widely available as unpaid ones, competition for these positions can be fierce. Your student needs to ensure their resume or application for the internship process reflects their capabilities in the best possible light, highlighting accomplishments and achievements showcasing their skills.

Even if a cover letter isn’t requested, writing one is generally a smart move, suggesting the instructions don’t explicitly say not to include one. In a cover letter, your student can showcase more than they may be able to fit onto a resume or give valuable context regarding their interest in the opportunity and how they intend to use the experience to move them forward down a career path.

HOW TO INTERVIEW FOR INTERNSHIPS FOR COLLEGE STUDENTS

If your student is asked to attend an interview for a paid college internship position, they need to treat it like any other job interview. First, they need to dress the part, usually in a way that is similar to what they would wear for a scholarship interview.

Next, it pays to practice answering interview questions. Your student can review the internship’s job description to see what skills and experiences are considered must-haves, then rehearse how they would discuss them. At least some interview questions your student may encounter during the scholarship or internship application process usually align with those areas, making them excellent places to start. However, a simple Google search can also present a wealth of results on some of the most frequently asked interview questions around.

Researching the company itself is also a good move. That way, your student knows a bit about their products, services, mission, and goals, and can include those details in some of their answers.

Additionally, it’s wise to think up a few questions your student can ask the interviewer. Have them research and select a few that help them learn more about what it’s like to work for the company or in the position.

Then, your student should make a few copies of their resume to bring along and prepare everything they need to take and wear the night before the interview. That way, they aren’t scrambling when the big day arrives.

Finally, when they arrive at the interview, your student needs to focus on making a good impression. Make sure they have a firm handshake at the ready, are comfortable with smiling at everyone they meet, and can make eye contact with the interviewer at regular intervals during the interview.

Are Paid Summer Internships Worth It?

While landing a paid summer internship can be a bit challenging, it is an endeavor worth pursuing. A bit of real-world work experience and some cash in their pocket can make their life easier, especially when it comes to paying for college or when the time for them to graduate arrives and they need to land their first job in their field.

If you and your student want to learn more about where to find local scholarships and national awards, sign up for our free college scholarship webinar! Take a trip over to http://thescholarshipsystem.com/freewebinar to reserve your spot today.

FAQs

Are there internships for college freshman students?

Yes, there are internships for college freshmen. In fact, some opportunities are limited to freshmen only or freshmen and sophomores, which may make them a bit less competitive than those open to students of all levels.

However, since your student is just starting college, a paid summer internship for freshmen isn’t as easy to find. Most of these opportunities will be unpaid, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t valuable experiences if your student can afford to forgo a paycheck.

Are there internships for college graduates?

Even if your student has already graduated, that doesn’t mean they can’t land a paid internship. Some companies will give new grads a chance to hone their skills over a few months to determine if they are a good fit for a long-term position or just to provide them with some experience in the field.

By and large, these options for graduates aren’t as common as paid summer internships for college students. However, if a worker shortage exists in your student’s chosen field, they may have better luck.

Are paid internships good for college applications?

Yes, paid internships offer many benefits for college applications. They not only provide valuable internship experience but also help in developing transferrable skills that admission officers highly regard. Engaging in a paid internship demonstrates initiative, commitment, and the ability to succeed in a professional environment. These experiences can set applicants apart by showcasing their practical knowledge and adaptability in real-world settings. Therefore, a paid internship can significantly enhance a college application by highlighting a student’s work ethic and readiness for academic challenges.

How much money should I make from a summer internship?

The amount of money students can make from a summer internship varies widely depending on the industry, company size, and location. Typically, internships in fields like technology, finance, and engineering offer higher pay, while internships in non-profit or creative fields generally offer lower wages or stipends. It’s essential to research typical salaries for internships in your specific field and geographic area. Remember, while compensation is a critical part of the equation, the primary value of an internship often lies in the experience and opportunities for professional growth and networking.

Can I ask for a paid internship?

Yes, students can ask for a paid internship. It’s essential to approach this request professionally and at the appropriate time, typically after they’ve received an offer but before they accept it. Research the industry standards for internships in their field to ensure their expectations are realistic. When discussing compensation, express appreciation for the opportunity and clearly articulate the skills and value they bring to the organization. Be prepared to negotiate but also be flexible, as some industries or organizations may offer other forms of compensation, such as course credits, stipends, or valuable training opportunities.

Does GPA matter for summer internships?

Yes, GPA can matter for summer internships, especially in competitive fields or high-profile companies. A strong GPA is often seen as an indicator of a student’s dedication, intelligence, and ability to handle challenging coursework, which can be appealing to potential employers. However, the importance of GPA varies by industry and company. Some may heavily emphasize academic performance, while others might prioritize practical skills, extracurricular involvement, or relevant experience. It’s essential to showcase a well-rounded application, highlighting not just academic success but also other qualities and experiences that make your student a strong candidate for an internship.

Are there year-round internships?

Yes, there are year-round internships available across various industries. These internships are offered during the fall, spring, and summer semesters, providing flexibility for students and recent graduates to gain professional experience outside the traditional summer internship cycle.

Year-round internships can be particularly beneficial for those with scheduling conflicts during the summer or who prefer to integrate work experience with their academic studies. Companies often appreciate interns’ continuous support and fresh perspectives throughout the year, making this a viable option. Whether part-time during the academic year or full-time during breaks, these internships offer valuable opportunities to enhance skills and build a professional network.

Do internships allow remote work?

Yes, many internships now offer remote work options, particularly since the rise in remote working practices due to technological advancements and changes in workplace dynamics. Remote internships provide flexibility, allowing interns to work from anywhere while gaining valuable experience and skills relevant to their field.

These positions can be especially beneficial for those with scheduling constraints or who live far from major employment centers. However, the availability of remote work varies by industry and company policy. It’s essential to verify whether a specific internship offers remote capabilities and to understand the expectations for communication and collaboration in a remote setting. That way, students can focus on opportunities that align with their needs while ensuring they provide ample value to an employer.

If you and your student want to learn more about where to find local scholarships, as well as national awards, sign up for our free college scholarship webinar! Take a trip over to http://thescholarshipsystem.com/freewebinar to reserve your spot today.