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Internship Seekers' Guide
In-Person Assistance
Get your resume or cover letter reviewed! Attach your cover letter and/or resume here and email it to Ask@bpl.org to get your documents reviewed or to set up a One-on-One review session.
Related Guides
In This Guide
Welcome to the Internship Seeker's Guide. Use this guide to explore:
- Why internships are important for your career growth
- Resources and tips for finding internships
- Exploring volunteering opportunities
- Making the most of your internship
If you have any questions ask a staff member! For tips about interviewing, resume writing, and research we recommend you check out the Job Seeker's Guide. We wish you the best of luck!
What's the Deal With Internships?
What's an internship?
An internship is an opportunity for folks to get real world experience by learning the knowledge and skills needed for a particular career. Internships are usually short-term (ie a few months or a semester) and focus on getting some on the job training and/or taking what’s learned in the classroom and applying it to the real world. Internships can be paid, unpaid, or can count for academic credit.
Why get one?
By getting an internship you are laying the groundwork to landing a full-time job by:
- Gaining industry knowledge. If you're in high school or college (grad school too!) an internship is great way to learn about a particular field/industry.
- Accumulate evidence of your abilities. Some industries require a proven track record to gain entry level access. Some of your coursework may even require an internship to complete it.
- Make professional contacts. As you move through your career you will rely more on your professional network for recommendations, job opportunities and more.
An internship can be an exciting opportunity but you must be aware of your rights:
- Fact Sheet #71: Internship Programs Under The Fair Labor Standards ActThis fact sheet provides general information to help determine whether interns must be paid the minimum wage and overtime under the Fair Labor Standards Act for the services that they provide to “for-profit” private sector employers.
Notable Blogs and Websites
- Internships--About.comGuide to being successful at an internship
- How to Write a Resume - The Balance CareersA step-by-step guide to writing your first resume.
- YouternInternship listings nationwide. This site features a helpful blog called the Savvy Intern for tips and tricks on how to get the most out of your internship.
