Internships
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Internships and the Stanford Student
Many Stanford students choose to complement their academic course of study with practical work experience by completing one or more internships before they graduate. The benefits of internships are numerous, as follows:
- Students can expand on their academic interests while attaining practical work experience.
- Working at an internship demonstrates to prospective employers that a future employee possesses initiative, experience in the field and a commitment to the profession.
- Internships give students an insider’s perspective on a particular company, occupation or professional field, helping students more accurately assess their career goals and desires.
- Some internships turn into job offers or provide valuable opportunities to network with people in a given field or profession.
Internships are not for everyone, however. Be sure to weigh the time commitment involved in taking on an internship with the following factors:
- Rigor of your academic schedule
- Your time management skills
- Your interest in pursuing honors or an in-depth research project
- Your involvement in student activities, such as athletics, music or the arts
- Your other social commitments
Finding Internship Opportunities
Asia Internships
Summer internships sponsored by the Bing Overseas Studies Program (BOSP).
Career Development Center (CDC) The Career Development Center hosts extensive internship resources, including a searchable database and an internship networking system.
Community Centers Many Stanford Community Centers provide internship opportunities for students. Contact individual community centers to follow up on potential positions.
Haas Center The Haas Center Resource Center contains useful information on nonprofit internships and jobs.
Deciding on an Internship
Once you have found an internship that interests you, take time to evaluate how it matches with your academic interests and goals.
- Research the internship. Carefully read through the internship description. Be sure you are clear on your responsibilities, the duration of the internship and the company or organization goals in hiring an intern. If possible, talk to former interns about their experiences working for the company.
- Find out about the company. Find out as much as you can not only about the internship position, but about the company as a whole. As with any position for which you are a candidate, you want to be as informed as possible. This is for your benefit and to make a good impression during any application or interview process.
- Talk to an advisor. Talk to a CDC advisor for more information about the internship. Or talk to a UAR advisor to discuss its impact on your academic life or postgraduate plans.