When looking for summer internship opportunities, many ask about writing cover letters for interns. Today, I’m answering that question by providing a basic cover letter template for students to highlight their skills, experience, and education when writing a tailored cover letter! Use the tips and examples outlined in this article to make your cover letter stand out! I’ve also provided a video explanation for you!

Cover Letters for Interns

I suggest cover letters for interns have four paragraphs. Each one serves a unique purpose and should be tailored each time you apply for a position. Here is a cover letter template for students and an outline with a description of the information you should include.

Opening Paragraph

The opening paragraph should identify the position for which you are applying and hook the reader. Remember writing essays in middle school? Your English teacher probably told you, “You have to hook the reader in the introduction!” The same applies. Ask yourself, “What is the one thing that I can do, that I possess, etc. that would be most impressive and valuable to an employer?” That one thing is your hook to keep them reading.

Body Paragraphs

Cover letters for internships should include two body paragraphs. These paragraphs are your opportunity to really stand out amongst other candidates. For young students, I suggest writing one paragraph about your education and one paragraph about your experience and skills. For professionals with more experience, choose the two positions (or one position and education) that best highlight the skills outlined in the position description.

The biggest mistake I see candidates make is using one generic cover letter template to apply for all jobs. This is a huge mistake! The paragraphs of your cover letter, specifically these body paragraphs, should be revised and tailored each time you apply for a position.

Be as specific and tangible in your body paragraphs as possible. Include the words and language that the employer utilized in the position description. Utilize numbers as frequently as possible to communicate your achievements to the hiring manager. For example, if a job description stresses the importance of good customer service skills, make sure you provide some very specific examples and information that demonstrate those skills. Anyone can write, “I have developed exceptional customer service skills” in a cover letter. What the employer is more interested in reading is, “During my two years as a Customer Service Associate at Target, I had a secret shopper satisfaction rating of 95 percent.” Providing a number and statistic makes this statement strong, relevant and impressive to the employer.

If you writing cover letters for internships and feel as though you lack the experience to highlight, don’t worry! It is wise of you to highlight your education or training. You can state the degree you earned, or are pursuing, as well as titles of specific courses you took that relate to the job duties outlined in the description. Campus and community involvement can also be described to highlight soft skills you have demonstrated that are relevant to the position.

Closing Paragraph

The closing paragraph of a cover letter does not need to be lengthy; however, it should communicate confidence and request action. Instead of, “I hope to hear from you soon,” write, “I look forward to further discussing how my knowledge and experience will contribute to the continued success of XYZ company. To schedule an interview, I may be reached at (559) 432-1111.” Confidence and clarity are key!

Cover Letter Template for Students

So, what do the parts of the cover letter template for students look like when they are all put together? Here is an example cover letter from a student applying for a summer internship program. Notice how he has chosen to predominately highlight his part-time work experience in the body paragraphs but also finds ways to include his education as well.

It can be very beneficial to engage in the cover letter writing process with a professional. If you begin writing a cover letter but feel as though you are struggling to really highlight yourself, I offer resume and cover letter writing and revision services! Let’s chat!

Finalizing Your Cover Letters for Internships

After you have used this cover letter template to write your letter, be sure to let your work sit for a while before jumping into the revision process. When you go back and read your work, ask yourself these questions:

• Will my audience be hooked after reading the first paragraph?
• How well did I address the skills and requirements listed in the position description?
• Did I include specific examples or is my content general?
• Is my word choice confident and clear throughout the letter?
• Have I communicated passion and enthusiasm for this particular position/company?

Would you like expert eyes on your cover letter? I can help you tailor and polish your cover letter to ensure you get an interview. Confidently put yourself forward for the job of your dreams by getting assistance tailoring your professional documents! Learn more about my services here and see what others have to say about my resume and cover letter help!

Want help with your resume, cover letter, or job search?

As an experienced educator and career coach, I sit down with students and young professionals one-on-one with their career endeavors! Whether you want tailored resume help or assistance finding and landing your dream job, I can help!

Book a free consultation today!

Cover Letters for Interns: A Free Template!
Loren Kelly

It may seem early, but if you are wondering when to start applying for summer internships, now is the time to start! I am here to help you navigate the search and get an internship you are truly excited about!

When to Start Applying for Summer Internships

January

The first thing I recommend is identifying when the campus Career Fair will be held and get it on your calendar (February is a popular month). Spend about 30 minutes a week on Google and Indeed identifying opportunities and forming a list of maybe 5-10 companies you’d ideally like to work for and learn from next summer. Knowledge is power! If you want to make an informed decision when accepting an internship offer, you must be knowledgeable about the job market. Putting in the time to research and become familiar with what internships are available and what employers expect. The compensation range for interns in your field and geographic area is important! Last year I wrote a post with many tips about what makes a good internship.

Another important step to complete in January is writing (or revising) your resume. If you have never written a resume, I suggest getting a rough draft on paper and then working with a resume expert to help you stand out in a crowded market. Having a second set of eyes on your document will help ensure you have a tailored resume that best represents your knowledge and skills on paper. So, if you are wondering when to start applying for summer internships, the answer is January or even during the fall semester!

February

February is the month to get serious if you want to get a summer internship! Go to the career fair and try to talk to as many companies that made your list as possible and get business cards so you can follow up a couple of days later. Spend about 15 minutes a week online looking at a summer job and internship opportunities.

As you apply for internships, make sure you are writing a tailored cover letter for each opportunity. A generic cover letter submitted to every opportunity will be noticed and not appreciated by hiring managers. Ensure you use keywords and highlight skills, knowledge, and experience relevant to the job. Get help tailoring your resume and cover letter to ensure you land the interview and get an internship you are truly excited about!

March

During March, keep up the 15 minutes per week of looking at opportunities online and submitting applications to get an internship. Make one more follow-up attempt with representatives you spoke with at the career fair using the info on their business cards if you had a good lead that has not materialized into an opportunity.

While you continue your search and internship applications, document all the jobs and internships you apply for. Save each position description (to help you prepare for interviews) and keep a spreadsheet of the job titles, company names, application deadlines, and any notes you have from the application. Check your spreadsheet periodically and follow up with companies regarding the status of your application if two weeks have passed since the deadline.

April

Interviews for summer internships will usually happen in late March or during April. April’s main focus will be preparing for the interview by reviewing position descriptions that you wisely saved when you applied! Look at lists of common interview questions and brainstorm other questions you expect to be asked. Glassdoor is a great resource for this! The best preparation for interviews includes specific examples of when you demonstrated skills and knowledge related to the positions you’ll be interviewing. It is important that you can provide specific examples and stories during your conversations and interviews with hiring managers. Interviewing can be intimidating; however, if you start early and get proper help preparing, you’ll feel confident and comfortable marketing yourself to the hiring manager!

May

Ideally, a summer opportunity will be lined up on or around the first of May. Tasks that will be important this month will be communicating with the hiring manager regarding the start date and orientation/training. Being proactive by keeping the lines of communication open demonstrates enthusiasm, excitement, and professionalism. Some companies may also request a copy of your transcript and pre-employment paperwork. May is a great time to complete these requirements ensuring you are ready to work on the first day of the internship!

How I Can Help You Get an Internship

Gone are the days of a college degree being the ticket to a good job after graduation. Employers value and expect candidates to have industry-relevant work experience during college. I help students navigate the career planning and job search process to ensure they are set up for success after graduation. Learn more about my services and former client successes!

When to Start Applying for Summer Internships
Loren Kelly

Summer internships are beginning to be advertised! What makes a good internship in 2023? Here are the top five things to consider when choosing a 2023 summer internship.

Structure

A good summer internship will have structure. Questions such as, “What does the typical day look like for an intern?” or “What objectives do you have for summer interns?” will help you identify the level of structure and advanced thought a company has given to their summer internship program. Some companies even have interns complete projects or create friendly competition between interns. These structures help students maximize learning experiences during summer employment, especially if the internship is remote.

Mentorship

The most valuable 2023 summer internships will include a strong mentorship component. Knowing who you will report to and how regular your communication will be will give a student good insight into how strong an internship’s mentorship component will be. The mentor will likely be in the interview. Don’t hesitate to direct a few additional questions to that person to get a feel for his/her personality, management style, and approach to work and mentoring.

Learning Opportunities

Internships are all about learning and gaining experience. Make sure the opportunities you are considering for 2023 summer internships will challenge you and provide ample opportunities to learn new skills. Sure, a student intern will be asked to complete some easy tasks (filing papers, etc.) from time to time; that is part of the role. Make sure, however, that you will receive new training, gain new experiences, and learn new things about your industry.

Work Environment

The work environment can make all the difference in an internship experience. Many well-established internship programs will have articles published online from former interns who share their experiences. Take advantage of these public articles and read them before your interviews! They provide a great perspective on the work environment, mentorship components, and learning opportunities. Then, in your interviews, ask the panel how they would describe their company’s work environment or what they enjoy most about their job and company.

Compensation

If you are wondering what makes a good internship in 2023, the pay and compensation should be the LAST factor you consider of these top five. Why? Because the purpose of an internship is not to make a lot of money. The purpose is to learn, grow, and identify components that would bring you long-term career fulfillment. To students and parents, a $ 1-an-hour pay difference may seem like a good reason to choose one internship over another; however, given the short-term nature of internships, the earning potential between $14/hour and $15/hour will end up being less than $300 after taxes. It is MUCH more important to accept an internship for growth potential and the right work environment than it is for a slight wage difference.

As you explore opportunities for 2023 summer internships, use these five criteria to help you make the best, most informed decision for your future! If you are in the beginning phases of summer internship exploration, consider attending a career fair and starting your search online! For more ideas and inspiration, follow me on Facebook, as I’ll be posting more tips for summer internship success!

Want help finding your perfect internship?

As an experienced educator and career coach, I sit with students and young professionals one-on-one and assist them as they articulate their goals and develop a plan to gain career-relevant experience! I guide students through the internship search, application, and interview process, teaching them life-long skills for career success!

Book a free consultation today!

What makes a good internship in 2023?
Loren Kelly

How to Write an Accounting Internship Cover Letter
Loren Kelly

Colleges across the nation are busy finalizing details to host a valuable career fairs for both students and employers. Many students wonder, how do job fairs work? I’ve been on the organizing end of career fairs, and it is one of the best times of the year. Students, to maximize success, it is essential to come prepared! When I am sitting at the registration table the day of these events, it is immediately evident to me which students have prepared ahead of time! Here are ten tips for career fairs and student success!

How do Job Fairs Work?

Before: Tips for Career Fairs

That’s right, the students who find the most success at career fairs are the ones who prepare before the event. If you missed my previous article, “Should I miss class for the college career fair?” be sure to read it. I cover some great tips to help you enter the career fair with the right mindset! Here are the five main steps you should take that relate to your success preparing for the career fair:

1.    Make a list for yourself – Most colleges post a list of the employers that will be in attendance at the career fair on their website weeks (sometimes even a few months) in advance. Get online and make a list of the companies you are most interested in speaking with at the event. I recommend choosing about five to target during your time at the career fair.

2.    Do your research – Once you have your list, research those companies. Read their website and blog if they have one. Next, familiarize yourself with their mission, products, and services. Knowing this information will help you make a great first impression and spend your time covering more important topics in the conversation. If you are hoping to secure a summer internship or your first full-time job, be sure to make special notes of any opportunities listed on company websites.

3.    Write a list of questions and topics – As you are researching, write a few questions or topics you’d like to discuss with each of the companies on your list. Doing this will help you make a great impression and also help you avoid awkward lulls in conversation that can happen when networking at career fairs.

4.    Apply for any internships or positions ahead of time – If a company is offering an internship or job that you are interested in, submit your application before the career fair. Then, you can use the conversation at the event to mention that you have applied online in hopes that the representative you speak with might pass along your resume or name to the hiring manager. It is appropriate to ask if you can leave a resume with the representative but avoid asking for a “good word” unless you have an existing relationship with the person you are speaking with. Let your impression and demeanor speak for itself. If you haven’t written or updated your resume, get help with it prior to the career fair!

5.    Prepare an elevator pitch – An elevator pitch is a professional introduction. It is usually 30-60 seconds in length and gives a brief overview of who you are, what you have done (experience), what you are studying (education), and where you are heading (a professional goal). Remember, don’t memorize it word for word but rehearse it a few times so you can introduce yourself comfortably and confidently.

Day of the Event: Tips for Career Fairs

You’ve done the prep work and the day has come! If you are wondering, “How do job fairs work on the day of the event?” Here are some day-of tips:

6.    Dress for success – Your appearance makes a difference! Iron your shirt, pants, and/or skirt and look sharp. Subtle make-up and fragrance are ok but don’t overdo it. When trying to choose between outfit options, always select the more conservative option. Finally, don’t forget to SMILE! A smile is an essential part of your “outfit” for the day.

7.    Take a professional folder with paper and resumes – You’ll need a place to store your research notes and the questions you prepared prior to the career fair. I suggest a professional, black portfolio with paper inside and place to store business cards (see number nine below). You’ll also want to have ample copies of your resume, printed on nice resume paper, in the event you have the opportunity to present one to an employer.

8.    Make a name tag – Next, be sure to stop at the registration desk and make a name tag. Write legibly! It goes on the left side of your chest (over your heart), so it is easily visible when you reach out and offer a firm, confident handshake. Why is this important? Because there are many people out there, I am one of them, who are terrible with names. Employers will talk to many students throughout the day. They will appreciate being able to glance down at your name tag for a quick reminder of your name. Plus, the more times they see your name, the more likely it is to stick!

9.    Collect a business card at the end of the conversation – This is an important step! Always be building your network. I suggest collecting a business card from every person you talk to (if possible). In between your conversations, take a moment to pause and take a deep breath. Then, write a brief note on the back of the business card. This will remind you of where you met the person and one significant point from your conversation. If someone you speak with is out of cards or doesn’t have one, ask if you may take their email address or connect with them on LinkedIn. Many students who ask me, “how do job fairs work?” don’t follow through with this step, and it is a very, very important one!

After the Event: Tips for Career Fairs

10.  Send a thank you, follow-up card/email – Finally, there is one very important step that I bet 95 percent of your peers won’t do. A follow-up/thank you card is another way to set yourself apart! One to two days after the event, send either a hand-written thank you note or email to each person you spoke with. Thank them for their time and perspective. This is where those business cards with the notes on the back come in handy! Personalize the thank you message with the one significant point from the conversation. This will help them recall who you are, remember that they potentially spoke with hundreds of students, and ensure you make a lasting impression.

Phew. That’s a lot more than just showing up to the career fair for an hour and walking around chatting with representatives, isn’t it? Yes, it definitely is. However, if you take the time to follow these tips for career fairs, I know you’ll make a great impression on the companies at the event and feel confident in your networking abilities. Remember, no time spent networking is ever wasted! Best of luck! If you follow for these tips for career fairs, you’re sure to make an excellent impression! And, now, you can help others when they ask “how do job fairs work?”

Get help with your resume and cover letter!

If you are attending a career fair soon or are in the market for a new job, don’t make the common mistakes many applicants do such as a general resume or not including keywords that will get your application pushed to the top.

How the resume revision service works:

1. Book the package by visiting my “Resume Help” page.
2. Provide a rough draft of your resume and position description for a job or internship for which you plan to apply.
3. Feedback, revision suggestions, and formatting help will be provided via a one-hour video call.
4. Email availability for follow-up questions and clarification will be provided to clients during the revision process.

Simply book a free consultation or email me to get started!

How can I help?

As an experienced educator and career coach, I sit down with students and young professionals one-on-one and assist them as they articulate their goals and develop a plan to achieve them! The path to success is not straightforward. My mission is to help you experience true career fulfillment through proactive coaching and career planning.

Book a free consultation today!

How do Job Fairs Work?
Loren Kelly

If you are looking for a talented and motivated junior web developer, you need to meet Brock Lubbers! Brock has a passion for programming and coding and has already developed some impressive web content and apps. I’m excited to share more about this promising junior web developer this week!

Meet Brock, Junior Web Developer

Meet, Brock. He is a Junior Web Developer in Wichita, KS! He is self-motivated, driven, and loves improving himself and his skill set. When I first started working with Brock in August 2019, he was unsure of his direction and was anxious about choosing the wrong career path. However, as we began to uncover his passion for programming and coding, he jumped in and began learning all he could and has never looked back!

Brock possesses the unique ability for someone his age to take an idea and build an entire website (front and back-end). Not only is he dedicated and able to work autonomously, but he can also build a website from scratch to deployment, and continues to update and improve the software and content.

Web Development and Programming Projects

I encourage you to take a moment and check out Brock’s website at www.developerbrock.com to see his work in action! He also has an outstanding Projects page where he highlights some of the apps he has developed!

One of Brock’s favorite projects is a repertoire management web app! Another passion of Brock’s is music. He has developed the app to track and organize his repertoire and the songs he wants to learn as a musician. In addition, the app has a tempo tracker, chat page, and more! See it in action below!

As an independent junior web developer, Brock has also designed his own website, which features a pomodoro timer app, a drum beat maker, and a data structure repository in C++. He says he has multiple other projects in the works.

Programming Languages

Brock’s favorite programming language is Python. He likes its simple syntax and how quickly he can get started with a project using its wide array of libraries. Brock enjoys the Python library Flask, as it is great for streamlining his web-development projects. He likes that it generally requires less code than other languages and, as a result, allows for faster development.

Brock’s Ideal Work as a Junior Web Developer or Intern

When thinking about ideal opportunities, Brock described a position in software development with an emphasis on web development. He finds web development fun and relevant because everyone uses the web. It is a really important element for every company, every consumer, and everyday life. He finds it satisfying to watch his webpages progress from a blank slate to polished user interfaces by using front-end languages to implement his vision.

Finding the Right Career Path

When I met Brock, he was struggling to determine the best career path for him. He was unsure what would bring him fulfillment long-term and desperately wanted confidence and clarity before investing loads of time and money into education and training. If you can relate to Brock’s former situation, I understand. And, just like I helped Brock, I can help you as well!

Want help finding your perfect career?

As an experienced educator and career coach, I sit down with students and young professionals one-on-one and assist them as they articulate their goals and develop a plan to gain career-relevant experience! I guide students through the internship search, application, and interview process, teaching them life-long skills for career success!

Book a free consultation today!

Meet Brock, Junior Web Developer
Loren Kelly

I gave a presentation to several hundred parents last week, and many of them wanted to know where to find summer 2020 virtual internships. Many of their children had summer internships already; however, due to coronavirus, those internship programs were canceled. If you are thinking about where to find a summer 2020 virtual internship, good for you! You’re already demonstrating the flexibility and resilient attitude employers are seeking!

Where to Find Summer 2020 Virtual Internships

WayUp

The Way Up website is an excellent resource for students of all ages, and they have a specific section of their website devoted to summer 2020 virtual internships! There are several industries represented in their summer 2020 virtual internship openings. From marketing to video production to software and coding, there is something for everyone!

Indeed

Indeed is my go-to job bank, and, unsurprisingly, they have many summer 2020 virtual internships available! I found an exciting summer internship with the Pittsburg Penguins today. This internship would be an excellent opportunity for a sports-loving student to build communication and relationship building skills with the Penguins’ Community Initiative summer 2020 virtual internship!

LinkedIn

I usually have to convince students that they should be on LinkedIn. If you’re not on LinkedIn, make that a goal. You don’t have to spend tons of time on it; however, you can gain a lot of insight following companies you are interested in working for in the future and connecting with established professionals in your future career field.

You can also find summer 2020 virtual internships on LinkedIn! Use the search function at the top of your browser. Search “internship” and set the location to “remote” for the best results. There are a lot of companies advertising on LinkedIn right now!

Handshake

Handshake exists just for students! You can join for free with your school email address and begin searching and connecting with employers offering summer 2020 virtual internships. Some colleges even use Handshake locally to post jobs only for their students. If you are a college student, I recommend checking your student portal for Handshake or Jobspeaker (another employment software program). If you are a high school student or your college does not offer an employment portal, use Handshake for your search!

Your Network

One of your best resources to find internship opportunities in a tough economic climate is your own network. Most people have a close circle of 20 people. Who are your closest family members and friends? Send a message to those 20 people briefly explaining your goal for the summer and then politely ask if they could connect you to just ONE person in their network who might be able to help. Suddenly, your reach becomes much further. Whether you find a job shadow opportunity, a volunteer opportunity, or a part-time job or internship, any experience you can gain this summer is a WIN!

Considerations for Summer 2020 Virtual Internships

As you’re probably aware, the economy is struggling right now. Companies have reduced hiring, and some have canceled internship programs altogether. As you search for summer 2020 virtual internships, remember that gaining great experience is the entire purpose of internship! I shared an article recently that addressed the Components of a Good Internship. In it, I address what students should look for in an internship. I want to highlight two of those, structure and compensation.

Structure

An internship needs structure, especially if it is a virtual internship. Ask good questions during the interview process to make sure that you are going to receive clear instructions, realistic expectations, regular guidance, and mentorship. If the hiring manager struggles to answer questions related to the structure, duties, expectations, and outcomes of the internship, this could be a sign that it isn’t well organized and structured and may lead to a very frustrating and lonely experience for a student.

Compensation

While everyone wants compensation for their time, remember that this is not the most important part of an internship. The purpose of an internship is to gain valuable and relevant experience in your future career field. Sometimes that is going to come in the form of an unpaid experience or a minimum wage internship. During an economic downturn like the one we are currently experiencing, don’t discount unpaid or minimum wage internships. I would much rather see a student gain valuable experience that he/she can market to an employer rather than an internship that paid but taught the student very little. Likewise, taking an unpaid internship to gain experience this summer is a much better move for your future than sitting at home and not getting any experience at all!

Are you looking for a summer 2020 virtual internship?

I can help!

As an experienced educator and career coach, I sit down with students and young professionals one-on-one and assist them as they articulate their goals and develop a plan to gain career-relevant experience! I guide students through the internship search, application, and interview process teaching them life-long skills for career success!

Book a free consultation today!

Also read: What Makes A Good Summer Internship

Summer 2020 Virtual Internships
Loren Kelly

If you are searching for your next professional opportunity, you are in luck! It is time for 2020 job fairs! Organizations across the nation are gearing up for these events. How can you make your time at job fairs as fruitful as possible? Proper preparation! I’ve been on the organizing end of job fairs, and it is immediately evident to me which candidates have prepared ahead of time! Here are tips for success at 2020 job fairs.

Before: Tips for 2020 Job Fairs

That’s right, the candidates who find the most success at job fairs are the ones who prepare before the event. Here are the five main steps you should take that relate to your success preparing for the career fair:

1. Research the companies you’d like to speak to

Most job fair organizers post a list of the employers that will be in attendance at the event on their website weeks (sometimes even a few months) in advance. Get online and make a list of the companies you are most interested in speaking with at the event. I recommend choosing about five to target during your time at the career fair.

Once you have your list, research those companies. Read their website and blog if they have one. Next, familiarize yourself with their mission, products, and services. Knowing this information will help you make a great first impression and spend your time covering more important topics in the conversation. If you are hoping to secure a summer internship or your first full-time job, be sure to make special notes of any opportunities listed on company websites.

2. Write a list of questions and topics

As you are researching, write a few questions or topics you’d like to discuss with each of the companies on your list. Doing this will help you make a great impression and also help you avoid awkward lulls in conversation that can happen when networking at 2020 job fairs.

3. Apply for any internships or positions ahead of time

If a company is offering an internship or job that you are interested in, submit your application before the job fair. Then, you can use the conversation at the event to mention that you have applied online in hopes that the representative you speak with might pass along your resume or name to the hiring manager. It is appropriate to ask if you can leave a resume with the representative but avoid asking for a “good word” unless you have an existing relationship with the person you are speaking with. Let your impression and demeanor speak for itself. If you haven’t written or updated your resume, get help with it prior to the career fair!

4. Prepare an elevator pitch

An elevator pitch is a professional introduction. It is usually 30-60 seconds in length and gives a brief overview of who you are, what you have done (experience), what you are studying (education), and where you are heading (a professional goal). Remember, don’t memorize it word for word but rehearse it a few times so you can introduce yourself comfortably and confidently.

Day of the Event: Tips for 2020 Job Fairs

You’ve done the prep work and the day has come! Here are some day-of tips for career fairs:

5. Take a professional folder with paper and resumes

You’ll need a place to store your research notes and the questions you prepared prior to the job fair. I suggest a professional, black portfolio with paper inside and a place to store business cards (see number nine below). You’ll also want to have ample copies of your resume, printed on nice resume paper, in the event you have the opportunity to present one to an employer.

6. Make a name tag

Next, be sure to stop at the registration desk and make a name tag. Write legibly! It goes on the left side of your chest (over your heart), so it is easily visible when you reach out and offer a firm, confident handshake. Why is this important? Because there are many people out there, I am one of them, who are terrible with names. Employers will talk to many students throughout the day. They will appreciate being able to glance down at your name tag for a quick reminder of your name. Plus, the more times they see your name, the more likely it is to stick!

7. Collect a business card at the end of the conversation

This is an important step! Always be building your network. I suggest collecting a business card from every person you talk to (if possible). In between your conversations, take a moment to pause and take a deep breath. Then, write a brief note on the back of the business card. This will remind you of where you met the person and one significant point from your conversation. If someone you speak with is out of cards or doesn’t have one, ask if you may take their email address or connect with them on LinkedIn.

After the Event: Tips for 2020 Job Fairs

Your work doesn’t when you leave the event! Don’t miss the final and very important step of attending a job fair.

8. Send a thank you, follow-up card/email

Finally, there is one very important step that I bet 95 percent of your peers won’t do. A follow-up/thank you card is another way to set yourself apart! One to two days after the event, send either a hand-written thank you note or email to each person you spoke with. Thank them for their time and perspective. This is where those business cards with the notes on the back come in handy! Personalize the thank you message with the one significant point from the conversation. This will help them recall who you are, remember that they potentially spoke with hundreds of students, and ensure you make a lasting impression.

Phew. That’s a lot more than just showing up to the career fair for an hour and walking around chatting with representatives, isn’t it? Yes, it definitely is. However, if you take the time to follow these tips for career fairs, I know you’ll make a great impression on the companies at the event and feel confident in your networking abilities. Remember, no time spent networking is ever wasted! Best of luck! If you follow these tips for job fairs, you’re sure to make an excellent impression!

Get help with your resume and cover letter!

If you are attending a career fair soon or are in the market for a new job, don’t make the common mistakes many applicants do such as a general resume or not including keywords that will get your application pushed to the top.

How the resume revision service works:

1. Book the package by visiting my “Resume Help” page.
2. Provide a rough draft of your resume and position description for a job or internship for which you plan to apply.
3. Feedback, revision suggestions, and formatting help will be provided via a one-hour video call.
4. Email availability for follow-up questions and clarification will be provided to clients during the revision process.

Simply book a free consultation or email me to get started!

How can I help?

As an experienced educator and career coach, I sit down with students and young professionals one-on-one and assist them as they articulate their goals and develop a plan to achieve them! The path to success is not straightforward. My mission is to help you experience true career fulfillment through proactive coaching and career planning.

Book a free consultation today!

2020 Job Fairs: Tips for Success!
Loren Kelly

My biggest piece of career advice for college students is to complete paid internships! The more the better, but make it a point to complete at least one internship before graduation. The experience and perspective you’ll gain from the formalized, on-the-job experience an internship provides will be invaluable as you market yourself after graduation and identify the best roles for your professional fulfillment.

How do you find paid internships?

I recommend students use two avenues to search for paid internships: word-of-mouth networking and published job banks. The first step a student can take is notifying their immediate network (friends, family, and social network connections) that they are seeking summer internship opportunities in a specific field. Making your intentions known early is key. Your network may not know of any opportunities at the moment; however, when they do hear of them, they will be able to let you know!

The second and very popular way to find paid internships is through published job banks. It is important to note that since this is an easier way to find opportunities, your competition is much greater! As a result, I recommend getting organized and applying to multiple internships that are of interest to you. Without further delay, here are five places to find published, paid internships.

LinkedIn

If you don’t already have one, be sure to make a LinkedIn profile. Follow companies in your industry that you are interested in potentially working for one day and stay up-to-date on their company and internship opportunities. You can also search for jobs and internships using LinkedIn! It is important to make sure your profile is complete prior to applying through LinkedIn though. Don’t leave your education, work experience, or profile photo incomplete!

Indeed

One of my favorite online job banks is Indeed.com. It is very large and allows you to search with multiple criteria. Perhaps you are a business marketing major specifically interested in digital media marketing. Indeed will return a large number of opportunities for a specific search. In addition, you can be emailed notifications when new opportunities arise that match your criteria. A proactive action is to download the Indeed App and spent at least 15 minutes a week browsing opportunities while you are eating lunch, waiting for class to start, etc.

Career Services & Career Fairs

Every university will offer career services to students in some capacity. Locate the office and browse their listings. In addition, this same office likely hosts a career fair each semester. Find out when that is and make it a point to attend. Take a polished resume (link to resume package) and prepare ahead of time (link to career fair article) to set yourself up for success!

Way Up

Way Up is a website designed just for college students and upcoming graduates. That’s right! They do a lot of the work for you by posting positions at companies that don’t require years of experience or fancy industry credentials. They specialize in entry-level jobs and internships – a perfect resource for students looking for paid internships!

Glassdoor

Much like Indeed, Glassdoor is an online job bank that allows candidates to search using multiple criteria (paid internships being one of them). What I like about Glassdoor is that it takes its services a step further! Students can look at company reviews to get some insight into what it is like to work there. That’s not all! Prepare yourself for interviews by looking at lists of questions and tips from candidates who have interviewed with the company previously. This website is an excellent resource for students seeking full-time employment and paid internships!

Jooble

Help Finding Paid Internships

A quality summer internship can very well be the beginning of an extremely successful career for a student. The issue is most students don’t know how to get a great internship and need some help and guidance and really thrive during this process. I can help! I devote each spring semester to coaching students to their first paid internships. Read about my services and the successes of past student clients!

How I Can Help You Get an Internship

Gone are the days of a college degree being the ticket to a good job after graduation. Employers value and expect candidates to have industry-relevant work experience during college. I help students navigate the career planning and job search process to ensure they are set up for success after graduation. Learn more about my services and former client successes!

Book a free consultation to discuss your next internship or job opportunity!

How to Find Paid Internships
Loren Kelly

I’ve been working with students for 10 years and many ask the question, “Why should I do an internship?” I could write on this topic for days; however, I thought it would be interesting to gather insight from students who have completed an internship and share their perspective.

7 Reasons to do an Internship: From Students’ Perspectives

1. Build Your Resume

If you do an internship, you are building your resume with work experience relevant to your career field. One student mentioned that having his industry-relevant summer internship on his resume was recognized by several employers at this semester’s career fair. Internships are impressive and noticed!

2. Learn How the Industry Operates

What you learn in class during college is different from what you will experience in the industry. The severity of this difference will depend on the major/industry, but this disconnect will always exist to some degree. Likewise, each company is going to operate a little different. Completing multiple internships really gives you the most well-rounded experience and knowledge.

3. Make Money Doing More Than a “Summer Job”

If you have spent your summers doing manual labor, lifeguarding, babysitting, etc., that is all good work experience; however, if you can have a summer job that makes you money and also gives you industry-relevant experience, take it! One student who contributed had spent her summers working since she was in high school. She gained valuable soft skills through those experiences; but, she said her summer internship made her more money and gave her much better learning opportunities.

4. Network with Other People and Businesses

When asked, “Why do an internship?” one student’s immediate answer was interaction with other businesses and professionals. He found the networking opportunities one of the most valuable aspects of his summer internship. It’s not always what you know but who you know. The reputation and relationships you form during an internship can be extremely valuable to you as you begin your career.

5. Apply What You Learn in College

One student mentioned that it had been difficult at times to see how some of the course content would be applied in the real world. Having the opportunity to do an internship last summer made his past coursework make sense and has given him the perspective to attach new coursework as well.

6. Try A New Career Before You Have to Commit

An internship can be an excellent opportunity to “try before you buy.” For example, one student I worked with recently has decided to pursue a career in marketing. Now that she is confident in her major, she will complete an internship to learn more about different specializations without the marketing field. Trying this career will also help confirm that it is the right fit before years of time and money are invested in a college education. All things considered, the worst-case scenario, if you do an internship, is you don’t like it. You should feel good knowing you only spent three months (if it was a summer internship) rather than four years obtaining a degree to find out you don’t like the field.

7. Explore Opportunities for Permanent Employment

Finally, a great reason to do an internship is it can turn into full-time or permanent employment. One student I spoke with was not only offered on-going employment during his final year of college but a full-time position after graduation as well. Imagine knowing you have a full-time job after college one year before graduation! While not every internship results in this outcome, employers have admitted that they prefer to hire current or former interns over other applicants because interns know the company and company know them. It is another case of “try before you buy”!

So, you want to do an internship!

If the seven reasons the students above gave to do an internship have you convinced (and they should!), it is time to get started finding the opportunity for you! As an experienced Career Coach and College Educator, I work with students one-on-one to help them acquire the best internship opportunities in their field through job coaching and resume help. Book a free consultation today to fast-track your success! Also check out this post to find out what makes a good internship.

Want help finding your perfect internship?

As an experienced educator and career coach, I sit down with students and young professionals one-on-one and assist them as they articulate their goals and develop a plan to gain career-relevant experience! I guide students through the internship search, application, and interview process teaching them life-long skills for career success!

Book a free consultation today!

Why do an internship? 7 Reasons from Student Interns
Loren Kelly