Develop a Plan

The first step in your internship search should be the development of a plan and timeline.

• Schedule an appointment with a career counselor to begin discussing your internship planning.
• Begin by gathering information and reflecting on your skills, values and interests.
• Consider self-assessment inventories and online exercises.
• The CDC offers several assessments including the Strong Interest Inventory and Myers-Briggs Type Indicator
• Determine your learning goals. Think about what you hope to gain from your internship/summer experience.
• Begin researching experiential opportunities:
  • internships
  • research opportunities
  • volunteer experiences
  • international options
• Draft a step by step timeline (3 to 6 months is generally a realistic timeframe)
• Research funding sources if your internship will be unpaid.
• Prepare/update your resume