Internships

Did you know that 60-70% of students who intern become employed faster than those who don’t?

What is an internship?

According to NACE, an internship is experiential learning that integrates classroom knowledge with practical application in a professional setting. Internships help students gain valuable experience and make connections in professions they are considering for career paths. With an internship you can:

  • Gain firsthand experience in your field of study or in an occupation of your interest.
  • Develop your professional skills and work habits.
  • Build your self-confidence and practical skills.
  • Learn about an occupation and clarify your career goal.
  • Build a valuable network of connections.
  • Demonstrate your knowledge and increase chances of getting hired.

How do you find an internship?

Certain FPU programs require and coordinate their own internships. Check the internship requirements with your academic program advisor. If your program does not require an internship, consider doing one to put your knowledge and skills into practice. To get the best out of your internship experience consider these questions:

  • What are the requirements of your academic program internship?
  • What do you want to learn? What assignments or projects would you like to complete?
  • Which industry/occupation do you want to intern with?
  • What knowledge, skills and competencies have you gained through your courses?

Direct Search Approach

You are more likely to successfully obtain an internship through direct methods (the hidden market) than through postings that everybody knows about. Make a list of those you know and begin contacting them to see if they might introduce you to someone who can lead you to an internship. Here are ideas to start your internship direct search:

  • Peers, family, friends, neighbors, church
  • Degree program professors/faculty
  • Career Development Center
  • FPU alumni network
  • Job/career fairs, networking events
  • Social media contacts (LinkedIn/Facebook/Instagram)
  • Professional associations, organizations, clubs
  • Current/former colleagues/volunteers you've worked with
  • Those you've learned of through research
  • Anyone you'd like advice from

Online Search Approach

An online search can lead you to an internship, but it's much more competitive. Spend 20% of your time online searching and the rest on direct approaches. Start your internship search with Handshake, FPU’s job board, where employers are recruiting students like you. Then, expand by visiting the websites of employers of your interest.

Internship Resources:

Need support with your internship search?
Email career.services@fresno.edu to meet with a career counselor.