Tips for students after their summer internship
Internships are an excellent way for students to develop new skills, gain hands-on experience and make valuable professional connections. As your student’s summer internship wraps up, it is an excellent time for them to reflect on their experience and maintain the relationships they established. Here are a few things your student can do after completing their internship to set themselves up for future success.
Say thank you and stay connectedÌýÌý
A great way for your student to wrap up their internship is to write a thank-you note to their supervisor and anyone who influenced their experience. Sending a handwritten letter instead of a text or email can show added appreciation. Gestures like this can make a lasting impression.Ìý
Once the letter is in the mail, students can connect with their colleagues on . The relationships from an internship can turn into a future opportunity.
Take inventory of their skillsÌýÌý
Internships allow students to learn about an industry and gain or enhance skills. As their internship wraps up, students can assess the skills they used in their role, including non-technical skills like communication and time management and the technical skills specific to their industry.
Students can better relate their skills and expertise to future employers in cover letters and interviews by defining what they’re good at. Recognizing areas for improvement can help students challenge themselves to develop and accomplish new goals.
Career Services’ self-directed Skills for Success program can help your student identify the skills they gained and how to highlight them effectively at every stage of their job search.
Update their resumeÌýÌý
Your student should update their resume while their internship is still fresh in their mind. They can start by reading the job description and highlighting things they enjoyed. They can also reflect on the projects they worked on and add key accomplishments relevant to their future career goals. On a resume, it’s best to quantify achievements. For example, “increased social media following by 23%.â€
Prepare for the next internship or job searchÌýÌý
With a fresh perspective on their accomplishments and vision for their future goals, your student might feel motivated to gain more real-world experience. There will be opportunities for students to connect with potential employers throughout the fall semester at career fairs.
Career Services helps students gain clarity about their future through accessible and inclusive guidance. Your student can connect with Career Services by attending workshops or scheduling time with a career advisor.