4 tips from a career expert for finding an internship during this COVID-19 pandemic

You may have heard that one of the best ways of finding a new job is to network. That’s true, but it is also true of one of the best ways to find any information.

I recently tapped into my network of career experts to gather and then share ideas for how college students can find internships even during this COVID-19 pandemic. I was grateful to hear from Tom Ward, executive director of Adelphi’s Center for Career and Professional Development, as he has helped many, many Adelphi students successfully land internships, even in this climate.

Tom shared four great tips:

• Think like a detective. Do your research and seek out growth areas such as technology, healthcare, certain areas of retail.  Many organizations (especially non-profit organizations) need assistance with their social media and marketing efforts.  In certain instances, maybe students can create their own internships that address specific organizational gaps and needs.
• Prepare for a virtual experience. Most internships are shifting to virtual experiences so make sure that your virtual brand is top-notch professional – i.e. LinkedIn profile, Zoom etiquette, networking resources, etc.
• Demonstrate your capability to effectively and efficiently work in teams. As the pandemic has demonstrated, the future of work will include virtual/remote environments working in interdisciplinary teams from across the globe.  A student’s ability to work independently, be a creative problem solver, adjust on a dime, while interacting and respecting teammates from various cultures will be paramount.
• Tap your campus resources including your Career Center, Alumni Relations, and faculty. All can help you search for internships, prepare, and network.