Here are actions you should take when seeking an engineering internship:
Even if you haven’t yet settled on a specific engineering specialization, you could start learning how to find engineering internships. There are many great sites to search for opportunities. Websites like Indeed, ZipRecruiter and LinkedIn have large databases of jobs and internships to give you a good idea of what’s available.
GCU also has resources available to its students, such as Career Connections. This tool is like other job search sites, but it has specific access just for GCU students. Another significant GCU resource is your instructors. Your engineering professors, such as your engineering practicum instructor, may be able to help you identify internship opportunities in the field.
Also, if there are specific companies you are interested in working for, you can check their websites. They will sometimes post information about internships that will be coming up soon or dates to check for updated job listings. Make note of these dates and prepare to spend some time polishing your resume.
Resumes and profiles should sum up who you are as a candidate for a position. Make sure your resume highlights the qualities and experience the employer is looking for. Reading through an internship posting that appeals to you is a good way to see what skills are valued for the roles you will seek.
Remember to include the technical skills you have acquired through your classes and projects, such as computer-aided software certifications, equipment expertise and knowledge of programming languages.
A resume should be well organized and easy to read through. Bullet points can be a good addition to ensure that each of your skills stands out. Templates help keep everything uniform and prevent your resume from getting cluttered.
If you are using a large career search site with profile options, your profile should be complete before you begin sending out applications. A profile gives recruiters a quick snapshot of your academic background and skills. Keep everything up to date so that all your strengths and experiences are on display.
Connections you make in college offer networking opportunities that will grow your contacts as you search for a job after graduation. However, this can aid you in finding internships as well. Faculty, advisors and students can point you in the direction of overlooked opportunities.
Joining a club can be another excellent way of making connections. Many engineering clubs will offer various career building opportunities for members, including advance notice of internships, guest lectures from industry professionals and resume reviews. Networking can take on many forms, but it is a skill that can better your chances for success.
When you land an interview, there are several common tips to follow that can help you stand out to potential employers. These include:
- Dress in a professional manner. Many people will overlook this simple trick. An interview is the first time you’re meeting recruiters face-to-face, so you want to look professional. Whether you are meeting in person or through a virtual, video-based platform, dressing in business casual attire, or nicer, is a good way of indicating your professionalism and commitment to the position.
- Straighten your posture. Good posture is another way of displaying confidence and showing you are interested in the company.
- Practice answering questions. There are dozens of sites that provide common interviewing questions for applicants. Pick out several lists and practice what you would say. Planning out the exact answer can be hard because you don’t know what the recruiters will ask. GCU’s ACE Centers offer career advisors that can help you plan out a list of potential replies to highlight your strengths.
- Make eye contact and smile. Even if you are on a virtual call, it’s good to remain highly interactive during the interview. You want them to see that you are someone they would like to train. Simply smiling and making eye contact shows consideration and respect for the interviewer's time. If you find yourself being interviewed by multiple people, make sure you spend time looking at each one when answering questions.