What to Look for in Your Search
Participating in an internship program is a strategic decision that individuals should make based on their career goals, professional interests, and current circumstances. Internships can be exciting opportunities to gain exposure to potential career paths and build valuable real-world experience.
1. Reflect on Your Needs and Priorities
When deciding if you could benefit from engaging in an internship program, please consider the following:
- Your Goals: What specific skills, experiences, or insights do you hope to gain? How will this internship support your long-term career or academic aspirations?
- Organizational Fit: What organizational values and mission do you see yourself working in? Are you seeking a workplace that encourages collaboration and an open exchange of ideas?
- Role Relevance & Time Commitment: Will the internship’s duties and responsibilities give you the skills you are looking to develop? What is the duration of the program, and are the required hours manageable for you?
- Personal & Academic Considerations: What personal and academic requirements do you have that could impact your internship success?
2. Research Organizations
Explore company websites and social media platforms to understand organizations' missions, cultures, and current initiatives.
3. Build Strategic Connections
Engage with employers through events and platforms designed to help you network and explore, such as:
- Company information sessions via UMGC’s Handshake platform
- UMGC’s Virtual InternPLUS Fair
- Networking events
- Informational interviews with UMGC Alumni through UMGC’s Community Connect Network
4. Explore Alternative Experiential Learning Opportunities
If an internship isn’t the right fit now, you can still gain valuable experience through other experiential learning opportunities. Consider participating in:
- Project-Based Learning: One example of project-based learning is a team of four students working together to design and draft a marketing proposal. They integrate classroom lessons, such as search engine optimization, client interaction, brand management, and market analysis. Later, they present this proposal to their class or an employer.
- Volunteering: These roles allow you to complete tasks that mirror paid opportunities. Volunteering can help individuals gain a holistic understanding of social issues and community needs.
- Job Simulations: They direct individuals to complete tasks that replicate real-world duties, enabling them to develop and hone skills that employers seek.
- Apprenticeships: These provide invaluable opportunities to learn within a professional setting under supervision to bridge the gap between education and the workforce.
Summary
Whether you decide to pursue an internship or an alternative experiential learning experience, each learning environment offers a unique opportunity to build skills, expand your professional network, and gain real-world insight. The key is to stay curious, proactive, and intentional in your journey.
If you have any questions or would like to explore next steps, we encourage you to schedule an appointment with a UMGC Career Advising Specialist.
