Finding Post-Graduate Internships

Question: I graduated from college almost a year ago and am finding the job market in my desired area difficult to break into. I've started applying for internships (I never had one in college) even if they say they are for undergrads. What is the best way to find post-graduate internships?

Answer:

For some competitive fields and especially in a tight job market, an internship is an excellent way to get your foot in the door. Recruiting, training, and onboarding new employees is expensive, so many companies use internships as a trial run. If you prove yourself, then the company will extend a full-time offer when the internship is complete. Research shows that 85% of companies use internships to recruit for their full-time workforces!

That being said, there are a few things you can do to find post graduate internships:

1. Call or visit your university career center.
The career center’s job is to help alumni as well as current students with the job search. Employers often publicize their internships through colleges and universities, so this would be the best place to begin your search. Your career center counselors may have some great leads for you. Just because you have graduated, it doesn’t mean your career center can’t be of service!

2. Apply for any internship.
Most internships are not exclusively for only undergraduate or only post-graduate candidates. Apply to any internship that interests you, and you may find that your degree gives you a leg up on the competition. Also, your cover letter is a great place to express why you are seeking an internship after graduation.

3. Create your own internship.
If you can’t find an internship that suits you, create one! If you are trying to break into politics, speak to your local congressman about an internship. If you want to break into marketing, ask a local non-profit if you can intern in their marketing department. Create your own opportunities.

Good luck!

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