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Internships

What is an internship?

An internship is your opportunity to connect classroom learning with real-world experience. It allows you to work in a professional setting, apply your academic knowledge, and build the skills that employers value most.

Through an internship, you can:

  • Gain hands-on, practical experience in your field
  • Develop transferable skills that apply to any career
  • Expand your professional network and meet potential mentors
  • Explore career paths to clarify your goals and discover your strengths

Internships come in many forms—part-time or full-time, paid or unpaid, short-term or long-term. Each experience is unique and offers opportunities for growth, learning, and professional development.
 

At Career Development, we’re here to help you at every step of your internship journey:

  • Explore opportunities and find the right fit
  • Assist with preparing application materials that stand out
  • Practice interviewing with confidence
  • Maximize your experience once you’ve secured an internship

Ready to get started? Visit to schedule an appointment with a Career Advisor and begin planning your next internship.

How to find an internship

Finding the right internship can feel overwhelming—but you don’t have to do it alone. Career Development is here to guide you every step of the way. Use the strategies below to navigate the process, and reach out to us anytime for support.

Helpful tips for internship searching

  1. Check Departmental Resources: Some majors have specific internship requirements or approved employer lists. Always start by talking with your academic advisor to ensure you meet departmental guidelines before applying.
  2. Reflect with Self-Assessment: Think about your interests, skills, and career goals. Ask yourself:
    • What industries or causes excite me?
    • What skills do I want to develop or strengthen?
    • How does this internship connect to my future career plans?
    • This clarity will help you target the right opportunities
  3. Research Internship Opportunities: Explore multiple sources to find openings:
    • – NEIU’s career platform with local and national opportunities
    • Job boards specific to your field
    • Company websites and employer career pages
  4. Update Your Application Materials: Your resume, cover letter, portfolio, and CV are key tools to help you stand out in the job market. The Career Development Office offers a wide range of resources to help you strengthen and refine these materials. Explore our guides on interview preparation, resume templates, action verbs, how to network, and more by clicking here.
  5. Network & Attend Events: Career fairs and networking events are great ways to connect with employers and recruiters.
    • Attend NEIU’s Part-Time Job Fair and Career & Internship Fair, which are each hosted every Fall and Spring Semester.
    • Check out all the events hosted by the Career Development Office.
    • Log into Handshake and view other events hosted by other organizations in NEIU and outside organizations.
    • Follow our to get the latest updates on upcoming events.