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Internships

Internships

  • An internship is a part-time or full-time job during the academic year or the summer months in which you receive supervised, practical training in your field of study.
  • Internships are usually related to your academic and career goals and may serve as a precursor to professional employment.
  • Some internships feature very close supervision by a mentor in an apprenticeship-like relationship.

Why internships are important?

  • You can get real experience in your field of study. How often do you see job advertisements seeking someone "with experience?" An internship is a great way to get that experience.
  • You'll develop professional skills and work habits in your field and that is what employers are looking for.
  • You'll have the opportunity to start developing professional contacts and begin networking.
  • It gives you an up-close look at a professional work setting, showing you what your daily work environment could be. Internships can also help you decide if this is really what you want to do or even if some other related area in the same business is more appealing to you.  This allows you to modify your plans and studies if you realize this isn't the setting for you.

What are popular options?

As a computer science college student, you might wonder what kind of internships are available to you. Whether full time or part time, these work experiences provide a lot of real-world practice that can help you better understand your career field and provide qualifications for your resume.
Some of the top internships our computer science majors pursue include:

  • Web developer
  • Computer science professional
  • Software developer
  • Software engineer
  • Information technology (IT) professional
  • Python developer
  • Web engineer
  • IT help desk professional
  • Computer programming instructor
  • Computer engineer

 

Internship Search Websites

Student-Intern Housing

Internship/Job RSS Feed

Check out these websites for cool internship opportunities!

National

Ameren
Apple
AT&T
Boeing
Disney
Footlocker
Foundation for Individual Rights in Education
Fox
Google
JPMorgan Chase & Co.
Lockheed Martin
Microsoft
MillerCoors
NBA
NBC Universal
Nextiva
Niagara Foundation
Nike
Red Bull
The Student Conservation Association
Twitter

Local

Southern Illinois Healthcare

State and Federal

Americorps
Illinois Legislative Staff Intern Program
NASA
Pathways
Peace Corps
U.S. Dept. of Education
U.S. Dept. of State

Turn your internship into a full-time job

Turning an internship into a full-time job requires a strategic approach and a proactive mindset. Here are some steps you can take to increase your chances of transitioning from an internship to a full-time position:

Perform Exceptionally Well:

  • Consistently exceed expectations in your internship tasks and projects. Show dedication, reliability, and a strong work ethic.
  • Seek feedback regularly and use it to improve your performance.

Build Strong Relationships:

  • Develop positive working relationships with your colleagues and superiors. Networking is crucial in the professional world.
  • Don't limit your interactions to your immediate team. Get to know people in other departments as well.

Express Your Interest:

  • Let your supervisor or manager know that you are interested in a full-time position with the company. Be clear about your career goals and how you see yourself contributing long-term.

Seek Mentorship:

  • Identify a mentor within the organization who can provide guidance and support. A mentor can help you navigate the company culture and offer career advice.

Learn About the Company:

  • Gain a deep understanding of the company's mission, values, and culture. Show that you align with these principles.
  • Stay informed about the company's industry and competitors.

Network with HR:

  • Establish a connection with the HR department. They can provide information on job openings and the hiring process.
  • Attend company events or career fairs where HR representatives may be present.

Showcase Your Skills:

  • Volunteer for additional responsibilities or projects that showcase your skills and add value to the company.
  • Highlight your accomplishments and contributions in your resume and during conversations with decision-makers.

Be Professional:

  • Maintain a professional demeanor at all times, both in person and online.
  • Dress appropriately, adhere to company policies, and be punctual.

Customize Your Resume:

  • Tailor your resume to emphasize the skills and experiences gained during your internship that are relevant to the full-time position you desire.

Apply for Open Positions:

  • Keep an eye on the company's job postings and apply for positions that match your qualifications and career goals.
  • Use internal job boards if available to current employees or interns.

Prepare for Interviews:

  • If you're invited for an interview, prepare thoroughly. Research common interview questions and practice your responses.
  • Highlight your internship experiences and how they have prepared you for the full-time role.

Be Patient and Persistent:

  • Understand that the transition from intern to full-time employee may take time. Be patient and persistent in your pursuit of a permanent position.
  • Stay positive and continue to show enthusiasm for the company and your role.

Additional Resources: