Prospective Students
Winter 2011 Course Information
Time and Place: Wednesdays 6:00 p.m. - 8:50 p.m | Social Science Lab 140
Obtaining an Internship
There are many ways to locate and obtain an internship. The following strategy has been used by many of our students and has proven to work effectively during the selection process. For more information on internships, or for individualized advising, contact the SSARC at ssarc@uci.edu.
Why do an Internship?
Research shows that students who complete an internship during their undergraduate training are three times as likely to receive a career-related position upon graduation1 than those who do not participate. Building successful networks and developing a strong applied skill set prove critical in today's job market, and as a UCI student, you have the opportunity to leverage the many resources and opportunities available right here on campus.
The First Step :: Get Support
Visit the Social Sciences Academic Resource Center (SSARC) AND the UCI Career Center to speak with a resource consultant and obtain contact information on various employers and internship opportunities. Learn about the various fields and industries that best accommodate your skills, values, interests, and lifestyle.
The Second Step :: Resume and Cover Letter
Develop a strong resume and cover letter. These documents serve as your first impression to potential employers, yet many people often underestimate their need to obtain assistance to create an outstanding resume. The SSARC will come alongside you and help you create a unique and persuasive resume that will improve your candidacy significantly.
The Third Step :: Submitting Your Application
Submit your resume and cover letter to those employers for whom you intend to intern. Unless otherwise specified, submit an email with your resume attached in PDF format. Place your cover letter in the body of the email, making sure to remain brief and concise. Emails should be no longer than a single screen length. A recent SSARC survey reveals the best time to submit your email is Monday thru Thursday, between 7:30am and 8:30am. Pay attention to any application requirements, forms, and/or recommendations requested by your potential employer. Remember that success depends on how well you can brand yourself to the company.
The Fourth Step :: Enroll in SocSci 197
The United States labor laws highly regulate unpaid internships, and as such, your ability to participate in one depends on several factors. To remain eligible, you must enroll in SocSci 197 Professional Internships DURING the term in which you intend to intern. This step is non-negotiable as many employers require proof of enrollment to proceed with the selection process. You may request a letter of enrollment AFTER you have completed registration by contacting SSARC Associate Director, Andrew Gonzales, at andrew.gonzales@uci.edu. Register for SocSci 197 regardless of whether you have secured an internship or not as attendance is mandatory for all first-time students. Classes meet every other week.
The Final Step :: Begin The Final Step
Begin your journey of professional development at your internship and throughout the course. Do not simply focus on doing a good job, but rather engage in discourse with colleagues and your supervisors. Seek out opportunities to meet with your manager at least three times during your internship to discuss your progress, making sure to solicit them for advice on how you can improve in your work.
Resources for Students
Resume Packet
Strategies for Obtaining an Internship
UCI Career Center
1 Callanan, G., Benzing, C. (2004). Assessing the Role of Internships in the Career-Oriented Employment of Graduating College Students.
Education and Training, 46(2), 82-89.