Internships are not required for GSM students, but it is
strongly recommended that all students pursue employment which is
relevant to their career goals during the summer between their first and
second year. Competition for quality professional positions is intense
and if students do not have applicable work experience, it will make the
job search that much harder. Although many GSM students are returning
after several years in the work world, they are returning to change
careers and their work experience may not be related to the career
change they want to make. Internships are a great way to obtain
experience in something new and employers have an interest in making
sure that interns have a rewarding experience with the firm because
interns are going to talk to their fellow students about their summer.
Internships can be paid or unpaid, full or part time and often continue
into the second year. Although financial considerations are important,
you should look at all of your options and be sure that the internships
you pursue are consistent with your career objectives.
Some companies begin the application process and interviewing for
internships right after fall quarter. Therefore, you need to develop
some idea of the career fields you are interested in during the fall
quarter of your first year. You should attend as many company
information seminars and career fairs as you can and you should be sure
to ask companies if they will be hiring interns. You should also keep a
close eye on the Student Services Newsletter because Career Services
advertises all job opportunities, including internships, that employers
send to the GSM.
Companies will also be coming to the GSM and interviewing directly for
interns. A list of resource materials on internships is available from
the Career Services staff.