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How to find the internship of your dreams

Doing an internship is a great way to gain work experience, to expand your network and to prepare yourself for a successful career. Unfortunately it’s not always easy to find a suitable internship that challenges you and brings out the best in you at the same time. But don’t worry, we’ve got your back. Getting the internship of your dreams is a breeze with these 10 tips!

  1. Know what you want
    Ask yourself what kind of internship you would like. Do you prefer to work for a top organisation in the field or rather for a start-up? Would you like to do front office work or back office work? What kind of duties and activities appeal to you? And what do you want to learn during your internship? The better you know what you want, the more you can narrow down your search.
  2. Abroad or not
    Maybe you have been dreaming of an internship abroad for years. Good for you, this is your chance! But keep in mind you have to arrange a few things when going abroad. Think of housing, insurances and a visa for example. International internship agencies and your study coach at Tio can help you with these things.
  3. Know your qualities
    Now think about your strengths, skills and work experience. What do you have to offer to a company? How could you benefit an organisation? With this information you can distinguish yourself from other applicants. Knowing what you’re capable of makes you an interesting candidate for employers.
  4. Check your resume
    The next step: double check your curriculum vitae. Is it flawless, complete and up to date? Tip: customize your resume to meet specific company needs, for example by highlighting your skills and experience that the company you’re applying for is looking for. It’s a great way to make you stand out.
  5. Spread the word
    Now you’re totally ready to let the world know you, a.k.a. the perfect intern, is available! Make use of your network and tell your family, friends, fellow students and acquaintances exactly what you’re looking for. Use your connections and start sending cover letters.
  6. Inform your lecturers
    Don’t forget to tell the lecturers at your university what you’re looking for. Tio University for Applied Sciences for instance has an extensive (international) network and its lecturers and study coaches are happy to help you. This way it might be a bit easier for you to get a foot in the door of the big companies.
  7. Dare to take the initiative
    Is the company of your dreams not looking for interns? No worries, there’s no harm in sending an open application. Reach out to the organisation and let them know why you’d like to work for them and how you can benefit them. Or just make a call and ask for the possibilities. You’ve got nothing to lose, right?
  8. Increase your chances
    Share your search on LinkedIn and post your availability in your LinkedIn bio. Make sure your profile is up to date including all your past experiences. Connect with people working in the industry of your interest and ask if they know a suitable internship. And don’t hesitate to ask former students about their experiences and contacts, they might have some useful tips.
  9. Prepare well
    Once you are invited for a job interview, make sure you are well prepared. Do your research about the organisation and think of some substantive questions about the internship. Dress professionally and be friendly, open and honest during the interview.
  10. Be yourself
    Finally, however nerve-racking and time-consuming the process of applying and competing for an internship might be, stay true to yourself. This way the organisation gets a unique perspective into who you are, what you’re capable of and what makes you different from other applicants.