It is ideal to have at least two trainings/ internships on your CV by the end of your course.

It should be career-related: supervised by full –time professionals in the field.

It can involve conducting research, working at a non-profit organization, managing office responsibilities, assisting with projects, &/or using technical skills to support an event.

Its goal should be to broaden your knowledge of the field and shape your future career path.

Ideally in the III/V semester because the heavy application periods are the months of January and February

ASK YOURSELF THE FOLLOWING QUESTIONS –

What field am I interested in exploring? Do I enjoy activities that relate to people, things or data?

Which skills do I want to develop – writing, research, problem-solving, scientific/lab?

What have I received praise or recognition for in the past?

Do I prefer a regular routine or an ever changing schedule?

Do I prefer to work in a team or alone?

Do I prefer to lead or follow?

Do I enjoy creative activities & artistic endeavours?

Are there organizations or companies that I would like to target?

Where would I like to be located geographically?

Do I need to be paid for the training/internship?

If I have to pay to get training, then is it going to be worth it or is it a rat-race sort of thing?

How important is the work environment (work-life balance) to me?

What do you hope to gain from the experience?

Utilize alumni and your network for advice

Speak to/Apply to employers directly about opportunities by participating in Career Fairs

Follow up after applying/speaking

Find apt housing by speaking to the employer or previous interns/trainees

If there is a fee involved, negotiate for groups and motivate like minded students to join

Prepare a quality CV and cover letter

Prepare for an interview

INTERPERSONAL - relating well with others, listening

to others’ opinions/concerns, responding to concerns, resolving disputes/conflicts, assisting others, motivating individuals or groups, working as a team player

LEADERSHIP - decision-making, motivating others,

delegating, evaluating, problem-solving, supervising and managing

COMMUNICATION - writing, advising, presenting,

public speaking, training, instructing, persuading, interpreting information

ORGANIZATIONAL - follow-through, planning,

meeting deadlines, setting & attaining goals, multitasking, time management