Internships for Students

A Student's Guide to Finding Internships

The biggest obstacle to landing that first good job is lack of experience. One way to gain that all-important work experience is to serve as an intern. Competition is tough for acquiring an internship, but it is well worth the effort.

What is an internship?

An internship is an opportunity for a student to apply classroom learning to a real world work experience while gaining valuable skills. Typically internships are paid and require the intern to work a minimum of 10 weeks and at least 15-20 hours per week. Many internship opportunities last longer and require more hours. They may be for a summer or for the entire year. The internship employer typically works around the student's class schedule. Internships often lead to full-time offers.

Who can be an intern?

Internships come in all shapes and sizes. Finding the right “fit” is of utmost importance. Key to securing any internship is doing the research. The requirements for internships vary tremendously. Review the job description, qualifications and internship requirements. Research the company or organization to determine if it is right for you. If so, you are on the right track. You must do your homework.

Typically to qualify for most any internship a student must:

Be a currently enrolled student in good standing with the college
Possess the GPA required by the organization
Provide a copy of your current transcripts
Submit a resume, cover letter, and letter(s) of recommendation
Complete an internship application and other essential documents

How do I get started?

There are hundreds of internship openings across the nation and beyond. Most of these opportunities are highly competitive and offer a variety of workplace experiences. Start early! You will need to narrow your search to the locations of choice, the opportunities of choice, and the requirements--especially deadlines. Knowing where and how to look is key. Student Employment Services has numerous resources available for your search. Additionally, various academic departments have internship opportunities built into their curricula. These include: clinicals, externships, cooperative education (co-op), practica and field studies. Check with your department to see what is available and if you are eligible.

Contact us

Student Employment Services

Airport Campus: Student Center
Suite 237, Room 244
803.790.7558

Beltline Campus: Student Center
Room 229
803.822.3321

Student Employment Services (SES) at Midlands Technical College (MTC) and all employers they represent are expected to abide by the Principles for Ethical Professional Practice published by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE).

Internships for Students

What is an internship?

Who can be an intern?

How do I get started?

Contact us

Internship Search Engines

Internship Companies

Apprenticeships

Other Resources