DEAR HARRIETTE: I am a college student who has been constantly searching for an internship. I have used my university’s career service center and searched sites like indeed.com and other search engines, but nothing seems to catch my eye. I am open to different types of internship experiences, but was wondering if there are any ways you would recommend a college student go about finding the type of internship they are looking for. -- The Lost Intern, Boston
DEAR THE LOST INTERN: Start by evaluating what interests you. You can select more than one idea if you are unsure, but you do need to have strong opinions about whatever you choose. You must sell yourself to a potential intern coordinator, demonstrating why you should be selected to work with them. This includes being articulate about how you can help them do their work as well as what you would like to learn from them.
When you look at intern listings, look for businesses that do things that interest you. You can also ask your neighbors, your parents’ friends and other adults or local businesses that you like if they have internship opportunities. Many students design their own internships. Give yourself a deadline to apply, and get busy.
(Harriette Cole is a lifestylist and founder of DREAMLEAPERS, an initiative to help people access and activate their dreams. You can send questions to askharriette@harriettecole.com or c/o Andrews McMeel Syndication, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.)