Getting a Head Start on Summer Internships

Happy New Year to myKlovr users and loyal blog readers! It may still be chilly outside, but we’re already thinking about helping you plan for summer. In this article, we’re taking a look at how to get a head start on summer internships.

Why do a summer internship in high school? Well, there are plenty of advantages. You learn new skills, explore a potential career, and make connections that might lead to a college recommendation letter. Don’t forget that an internship makes you a more competitive college applicant, as well. And with many colleges no longer requiring standardized test scores, smart, motivated applicants need every advantage to stand out from the competition.

Where Do I Start?

No matter if you’re a high school freshman, sophomore, or junior, you’re going to start at the same place – considering your interests. Now, I’m not asking you to select a career path, but take some time to reflect on what topics or subjects interest you. Also, take a look at your myKlovr account to review your self-assessment results. We designed these assessments to give you a personalized action plan. Fortunately, you can also use the results to plan for summer internships.

There Are So Many Options!

Yes, the internet is awash with internship opportunities, but don’t worry:

• They’re not all opportunities that interest you.
• Many have in-person requirements in places you can’t travel/relocate to over the summer.

Those two facts narrow down your options significantly. Now, it’s time to market yourself. Here’s what you need:

A Resume 

There might not be a lot to put on your resume, but don’t worry. The point is to frame what you have accomplished in high school in a professional, easy-to-read, one-page statement. Start by brainstorming your accomplishments. Your myKlovr digital portfolio is a great way to do this, especially if you’ve consistently added academic and extracurricular work examples.

A Positive Social Media Presence

If you’re using social media, the odds are that companies or organizations you apply to will find your posts and pictures. Before doing anything else, make sure what you already posted is appropriate.

Second, consider creating a LinkedIn account. Besides being a place to post your virtual resume, employers nationwide use LinkedIn to attract high school interns. Some LinkedIn tips to get you started:

• Use a flattering headshot.
• Follow employers that interest you.
• Make a post of two that details what kind of internship you’re looking for.
  • Tag relevant companies.
• Link to any academic or extracurricular accomplishments (if applicable).
• If an employer you might want to intern with posts regularly, it never hurts to ask what they are looking for in an applicant. Some will be very candid, saving you time and energy during your search.

By developing a resume and social media presence this month, you’ll be well ahead of other internship applicants.

Final Thoughts

Getting the ball rolling on an internship search takes time and effort, but doing so sets you up for success. Use the experience as a ‘practice run’ for senior-year college admissions. And no matter what internship you land, make the most of the opportunity by trying your best and engaging with coworkers.

And last, but certainly not least, when you finish your internship, don’t forget to put work examples into your myKlovr digital portfolio.