Struggling to find the perfect summer internship in STEM? Whether you're an undergraduate or a PhD student exploring new research opportunities, the path to securing an internship can be challenging. As someone who's navigated this journey multiple times (check my About Me for details!), I understand the hurdles and questions you might have. Which is why I’ve decided to write this blog post, to break down the process and make it a small bit easier for you all out there currently interested in getting one!
Internship Schemes
Firstly, there is an abundance of summer internship programmes, that are built to introduce students like you who are interested on working on a short-term project during a specific timeframe, often during the Summer. This was the case with my first internship at Tyndall National Institute, who provide an amazing internship scheme for students with backgrounds varying from Physics, Chemistry and Engineering. Other examples include the NanoDTC at Cambridge, IBM Research Internships, and programmes such as The Deloitte Student Academy. These programs are fantastic gateways to new fields and networking with peers. Start your search on platforms like LinkedIn Jobs, Indeed.com, and Glassdoor.
If you are interested in a particular topic or have a particular researcher in mind that you would like to work with, don’t be afraid to just email them! Remember, they are people too and appreciate genuine interest! Your email should be confident yet concise, highlighting your familiarity with their work and expressing a clear desire to collaborate. Attach a CV and briefly mention your achievements without overemphasizing them in the email itself. Keep it short and sweet and remember to be clear and concise.
Online Courses and Extra Curricular Activities
Standing out in a pool of applicants is crucial. Engaging in online courses (such as those offered on Coursera or Edureka) and staying abreast of relevant research (via resources like Google Scholar) can demonstrate your dedication and interest. Participation in academic outreach or science-related social media can further enhance your profile. It's about showcasing your unique perspective and commitment.
When to Apply?
A common query is about the ideal time to start applying. There's no fixed rule here – start when you're ready. Different researchers and programs have varying timelines. If there are no open calls for applications, don't hesitate to reach out and inquire. I typically arranged my internships between December and February, but flexibility is key, as opportunities can always arise closer to the summer.
Leverage University Resources
Career services offer essential services like resume workshops and interview prep, while job fairs and networking events provide direct access to employers. Leveraging alumni networks from your university can also give valuable insights and potential referrals. Faculty members are also great resources for advice and may connect you with industry opportunities. It’s just a matter of asking!
Handling Rejection
Rejection is a natural part of the internship search process. When faced with it, it's essential to maintain perspective and use it as a steppingstone for growth. It’s important to seek constructive feedback, understand where you fell short and going forward how you can improve. Stay resilient and remember not to take it personally, the right internship will come along, it’s just a matter of time!
Remember, getting a STEM internship requires persistence, strategy, and resourcefulness. From exploring structured internship programs to direct outreach and enhancing your skills through courses and extracurriculars, each step is crucial in carving your path and obtaining one! Hopefully with some of these tips, you're now confident to begin searching for an internship and hopefully securing one in the future! Good luck and please let me know how it goes!