How Can I Get the Internship of My Dreams?

Here's how and what to do once you get it!

you can

by Melody Dornink

Internships are a vital part of hands-on work experience for any college student or graduate. So how can you land your “dream internship”? And, better yet, how can you get the most possible out of your interning experience?

Think Local First

While there are some high profile national internships available, many students find internships through contacts they have locally, in the city or town they already live in.

While it may be difficult to land an internship at the New York Times, a local weekly or daily newspaper may be open to having you intern even if you aren’t a journalism major but just interested in writing.

I caught up with two local supervisors/business owners who regularly work with interns. Here’s what they had to say.

Do Your Research.

Emily Bawden, branch director of First Care, a pregnancy center and adoption agency in Rochester Minnesota, said it is important for potential interns to know the organization well. Research the business, organization, or ministry before going in for the interview. If you have already done your homework, you will show your potential employer that you have initiative, sincere interest, and a willingness to go the extra mile. These qualities could potentially set you apart from other applicants. “Ask questions,” Bawden adds.

Daniel Ziebell, attorney and owner of Ziebell Law Office, just outside of Rochester, said he looks for someone who has a basic knowledge of the equipment or software used in the business. “If you know you’re going to use a spreadsheet program, learn about it before you go in for the interview,” he said.

Be Teachable.

No one wants to work with a know-it-all. Sometimes a business owner will ask you to perform some minor tasks before officially accepting you as an intern. Listen carefully to instructions and follow them to the best of your ability.

Ziebell said he teaches an intern how to do something “his” way first; that way, the intern learns how to do it the right way. However, after the intern becomes proficient in the task, Ziebell welcomes creativity. “Show that you are looking for your own ways to improve the system,” he said.

Always do your best work – no matter how large or small the assignment may be. As you demonstrate your ability to follow directions in menial tasks, your supervisors will trust you to take on bigger responsibilities. “Don’t be afraid to ask questions if you’re overwhelmed,” Ziebell said, “I’d rather have someone ask questions and get the job done right.” By not asking questions when you are confused, you are more prone to making mistakes. No boss appreciates sloppy work.

Work Well With People.

During the interview process, the potential employer will be watching your mannerisms, your personality characteristics, how well you listen, the kinds of questions you ask, and, most importantly, if you are easy to get along with. Ziebell said he is looking for someone who will “get along well with co-workers,” and also has an “ability to talk to clients.”

Bawden agrees: “We want someone who will work well with clients and people.” There will always be individuals you do not particularly care for; learn to work with them anyway! Maintaining a pleasant, cooperative, easy-going and professional demeanor is imperative to a successful internship. “If people have a willing heart to serve others and work hard, they will do well,” Bawden said.

Have Fun.

“Do something you’ll enjoy,” Bawden advises. Look for opportunities you think you’ll do well in and will also have a lot of fun doing. Find interning options that fit your criterion for a beneficial and pleasurable experience. “Look for something that interests you,” Ziebell said.

Does the position suit your skill sets and temperament? Are you excited about where the company and you as an employee (or potential employee) are heading? Internships can give valuable hands-on experience which is helpful in determining if you want to stick with that particular field. Don’t be afraid to explore your options to find a position you’ll love.

you can We're happy to welcome Melody Dornink to the Acceleration team of writers! Melody is a CollegePlus! English major and lives with her family in Minnesota. She works at a law office and writes for a local newspaper.

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How Can I Get the Internship of My Dreams?

Here's how and what to do once you get it!

Don't stop here!

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