Can't get internships

I can't find an internship for the summer or the fall semester. Is there anything I'm doing wrong? I'm a junior at Suny New Paltz and even though I've applied to many companies, nobody seems to have openings. Thanks.

Hello Oneida,

You mentioned applying to companies. I would go in and speak with someone directly in order to get more information about potential job openings. If there are no openings, you can at least make connections.

I would recommend that you visit the following sites:

[www.hispanicheritage.org]
The Hispanic Heritage Foundation (HHF) identifies, inspires, promotes and prepares Latino role models through national leadership, cultural, educational and workforce programs. They offer scholarships and a program called LOFT (Latinos on Fast Track) that can help direct you to great paid internships and job opportunities.

www.inroads.org
INROADS is a great organization that focuses on getting students paid corporate internships during the summer. You must meet requirements to be part of this program.

www.hacu.net
Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities offers students paid internships in corporations and government offices.

I would also go to the Career Services office at your college to see if they can assist you with any internships. They may have partnerships with some of the organizations in the area.

You should also begin networking with professors, professionals, family, friends, classmates, etc. to see if they can direct you to an intership that is right for you.

Finally go to our "Resources" page and click on "Leadership Development" for some other organizations that offer internships.

There are opportunities out there, just keep looking! Good luck!

-Jazmin

I'm a sophomore in a small college in North Carolina. I see how much trouble friends and others are experiencing when it comes to finding internships in their junior and senior years. Do you think it would be smart to start applying now for things happening next summer? or are companies not even looking right now for interns?

Jess,

Yes, I would go ahead and start looking now so that you can get an idea of when application deadlines are and you can get a head start on compiling all your materials. You give yourself enough time to work on your resume, your cover letter and any other documents they ask for. Plus, you can have others edit these materials so you know that you are submitting your best work. Most companies and organizations have deadlines around the month of March (others may be earlier or later). It is never a bad idea to start early!

Good luck!

- Jazmin