How to Find an Internship Over the Easter Holidays: Tips for Students
As a Lancaster University student, finding an internship can be a valuable and rewarding experience. Not only can it give you hands-on experience in your chosen field, but it can also help you develop important “hands-on” skills, make new connections, and build your resume. If you're looking to find an internship over the Easter holidays, here are some tips to help you get started.
Update your CV
Before you start your internship search, make sure your CV is up-to-date and ready to go! Don’t underestimate the power of your CV and how important it is to show off any academic achievements, part time work, job shadowing or previous internships. Your CV is your chance to make a great first impression, so it's important to take the time to make it stand out. Whilst it's important to include all relevant experience, education, and skills, it’s even more important to make sure to tailor it to the specific internships you're applying for.
Speak to lecturers for contacts
Your lecturers can be a great resource when it comes to finding internships. They likely have connections in your field and can provide valuable advice and guidance. Make an appointment to speak with your lecturers before you start your internship search and see if they can connect you with any potential employers.
Look at Lancaster Uni Employment & Recruitment Services
Lancaster University Employment & Recruitment Services is another great resource for finding internships as well as jobs locally. They offer a range of services, including job postings, employer events, and workshops on CV writing and interview skills. Even if you are confident in your CV and skills, it’s always worth brushing up on your interview techniques before you meet any potential employers, so don’t miss the free guidance from Uni - don’t forget, it’s in their interest to help you succeed.
Use online job boards
There are a number of online job boards that can help you find internships! Some popular options include Indeed, LinkedIn, and Glassdoor. Make sure to create a profile and set up job alerts to ensure you don't miss any relevant opportunities. However, whilst job boards are a popular way to search for internships, they may not always provide access to all available opportunities. Therefore, it's essential to broaden your search and explore alternative ways to find internships.
Visit the websites and social media pages of companies you are interested in working for and check if they have any internship opportunities. Many companies post their internships on their website or Linkedin, and some may even have the hiring managers’ contact details. This will give you a better idea of the company culture, the type of work you may be doing, and the requirements for the internship.
Network
Networking is key when it comes to finding internships. Attend industry events, join professional organizations, and connect with people in your field on LinkedIn. Don't be afraid to reach out to people and ask for advice or information on potential internships. After all, it’s not always “what you know”, but “who you know”.
Why should you spend your Easter break interning instead of hanging out with friends?
Finding an internship over the Easter holidays can be a great idea for a number of reasons.
Firstly, it can help you gain valuable experience in your field, which can be beneficial when applying for future jobs. It can also help you develop important skills, such as teamwork, communication, and time management. By spending your holidays interning, you can gain a competitive advantage over your peers who may not have such experience.
Internships also provide an opportunity to build a professional network of contacts, which can be helpful in securing future job opportunities. The contacts you make during an internship can provide references, offer mentorship, and connect you with other professionals in your field. Plus by interning in various industries, you can determine which career path is right for you, which can help you make more informed decisions about your future.
Finding an internship during university holidays can be an excellent way to gain valuable work experience, build a professional network, improve your resume, earn money, and explore different career options. While we know that spending time with friends is also essential (don’t forget to squeeze in a social life), investing your time in an internship can provide long-term benefits that can help you achieve your career goals.
If you manage to find an internship in Lancaster and already live with us, don’t forget that you can stay in your student accommodation, Bailrigg Student Living, over the holidays! You can wind down after work in our onsite cinema or gym which are both included in your rent!
