Imagine: you’ve just graduated! Now, what’s next?

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If you haven’t made any plans before, it can be difficult to know what to do after graduation. If you’re looking to do an internship, you’ve come to the right page.

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Here, you’ll learn all the benefits of a post-grad internship and know what steps you need to take to land the perfect opportunity.

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Let’s begin!

What is an Internship After Graduation?

A work experience program for students who have completed their degree. They allow you to:

• Gain hands-on experience
• Network with other professionals
• Explore your field
• Learn practical aspects
• Lead to full-time job opportunities

Exciting, isn’t it? Let’s learn more below.

Types of Internships Available for Graduates

There are several types of internships available for graduates:

1. Paid Internships: These internships offer a salary or stipend. You’ll find them often in industries like finance, engineering, and technology.
2. Unpaid Internships: These positions do not offer monetary compensation. They are common in non-profits and the arts.
3. Remote Internships: These internships allow you to work from home. They’ve become quite popular and attractive due to the rise in remote work recently.
4. International Internships: Want to learn a new culture in addition to job experience? Then go for international internships. These are located abroad.

Are you confused which one to go for? Asking yourself these questions can help:

• What industries interest you the most?
• What specific roles or job functions excite you?
• What skills do you want to develop or improve?

Defining your career goals/interests can narrow your search. We hope you have a better idea now of what type of internship you want to go for!

How to Find the Right Internship After Graduation

Now you know two things. One, that you want to do an internship. Two, what type of internship you want. So, let’s look at the three steps you need to follow to get one.

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Step 1: Research Companies and Available Positions

First, it’s time to research companies and available internships. Use these resources to gather info:

1. Company Websites: Visit the career sections of companies you're interested in. They’ll probably list open internships there. Plus, follow them on social media.
2. Industry Publications: Read industry-specific magazines and journals. They often list top companies.
3. Internship job listings: Sites like Intern List have up to date and curated internship listings.

Comprehensive research helps you identify companies that match your career interests and keeps you informed about available positions.

Step 2: Leverage Job Portals, University Career Services, and Networking

Finding the right internship often requires using multiple channels:

• Job Portals: Use platforms like LinkedIn, Indeed, and Glassdoor to search for internships.
• University Career Services: Your university's career center can offer personalized advice. They sometimes even have exclusive partnerships with companies.
• Networking: Networking events, webinars, and career fairs can open doors to many opportunities.

Utilizing a variety of job search tools increases your chances of finding the perfect internship.

Step 3: Prepare a Tailored Resume and Cover Letter

Your resume and cover letter are your first chance to make a great impression. Tailoring these documents to each position is essential:

• Resume: Highlight relevant skills, coursework, and experiences. Use action verbs and quantify achievements when possible.
• Cover Letter: Address the hiring manager by name if possible. Explain why you're interested in the position and how your background makes you a good fit. Be specific about what you can bring to the company.

Customizing your resume and cover letter for each application shows that you are genuinely interested in the position and increases your chances of landing an interview.

The goal, of course, is to get an internship that aligns with your career goals and sets you on a great career path. By following these steps, you can find the right internship after graduation!

Downsides of Graduating Without an Internship

While not doing an internship can give you immediate income, there are also some cons in this.

• Lack of Experience: Without an internship, you might lack hands-on experience.
• Steeper Learning Curve: You would be entering a full-time job without prior practical experience. It’s stressful at the least, and risky at the most.
• Fewer Job Opportunities: Some employers prefer candidates with internship experience, which might limit your job options.

All in all, graduating without an internship is definitely possible, but does have some risks. Consider them before taking any major steps.

Is A Student Internship Different from a Post-Graduation Internship?

Student internships usually occur while you are still enrolled in college. They are lighter on time and responsibility since you also have to study. On the other hand, post-graduation internships go deeper. They often require a full-time commitment and are designed to provide a deeper level of experience. So, that’s the difference!

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Can You Do an Internship After Graduation on OPT?

OPT, or Optional Practical Training, allows international students in the U.S. on an F-1 visa to work in their field of study for up to 12 months after graduation. This program provides a pathway for graduates to gain practical experience in their chosen field.

• Pre-Completion OPT: Can be used before you finish your degree.
• Post-Completion OPT: Used after graduation, allowing up to 12 months of work.

In summary, OPT offers a valuable opportunity for international students to gain work experience in the U.S. after graduation.

Conclusion

Doing the right internship after graduation can set you on the right path for the future. It can give you the knowledge you’ll need, connect with people, and understand what lays ahead. We hope this article helped you land the perfect internship!

Feel free to read more about how to get an internship in sales, HR, or software engineering!

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