Believe it or not, your area's telephone directories can also help you locate interesting workplaces. Many students have had success contacting workplaces directly after finding their phone number through a directory. Once you locate several interesting listings, do further research by reviewing their websites. Don't be deterred just because an organization or company isn't advertising for interns. Chances are they already employ interns. If they don't, try proposing an internship for yourself and see what happens. If you show interest and initiative, they may hire you! You'll never know unless you try.

During your internship search keep reminding yourself that you have little to lose and everything to gain from being assertive and resourceful. As you actively consider which internships are right for you, keep this thought in mind: There is no “best” internship. There are only better and worse ones depending on my values, needs and goals.

Good luck with the internship search!

Joel Clark is assistant professor of government and co-director of internships at George Mason University, and director of Michigan State University 's Washington Semester program. Professor Clark's book, Intern to Success, was published in 2002 by Houghton Mifflin. His internship tips are also featured in Peterson's Internships (2003). For more advice on internships visit http://www.InternSuccess.com .

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