1. Why Internships Matter

Internships are more than just resume boosters—they’re career game-changers. They give students hands-on experience, help them build valuable skills, and create networking opportunities that could lead to full-time jobs. Many colleges even give credits for participation in internships! Employers often prioritize candidates with internship experience because it demonstrates initiative and a willingness to learn.

2. How to Find the Right Internship

Finding the perfect internship starts with knowing what you want. Here are some ideas to help you decide what internship is right for you:

• Consider your career goals – what roles interest you?

• Use resources like LinkedIn, college career centers, and internship websites (e.g., Handshake, Internships.com, Indeed).

• Network with your professors, alumni who graduated from your major, and professionals in your chosen industry.

• Consider both paid and unpaid opportunities to maximize learning.

3. Preparing a Strong Application

A standout application consists of three key elements:

• A polished resume: Tailor it for the specific internship, emphasizing relevant coursework and experience. Your college career center can help with this!

• A compelling cover letter: Showcase enthusiasm, skills, and a clear connection to the company.

• A professional portfolio: If applicable, include examples of work, like projects, research, or designs. Some programs have access to electronic portfolios that you can send virtually as part of your application.

4. Acing the Interview

Success in interviews requires preparation and confidence. Be certain to:

• Research the company and its mission. Be prepared to discuss why you are interested in this specific internship and how the company’s mission relates to you personally.

• Practice common internship interview questions (e.g., "Tell me about yourself" or "Why do you want this internship?").

• Have a few insightful questions ready to ask the interviewer.

• Dress professionally and follow up with a thank-you email.

5. Networking for Success

Strong connections open doors to opportunities. Here are some suggestions:

• Build a solid LinkedIn profile highlighting achievements.

• Attend networking events and job fairs.

• Reach out to professionals in their desired industry with thoughtful messages.

• Leverage informational interviews to gain career insights.

6. Maximizing Your Internship

Once you have landed the internship, make the most of it by:

• Setting clear goals with your supervisor.

• Taking initiative and asking for challenging tasks.

• Seeking mentorship and feedback from experienced professionals.

• Documenting your achievements for future job applications. Revise your resume at the end of your internship to be certain it is up to date

7. Overcoming Challenges

Not every internship experience is perfect, but obstacles can be learning opportunities. You might face some of these:

• Rejection: It’s normal—learn from feedback and keep applying.

• Unpaid internships: If financially feasible, focus on the skills gained rather than the paycheck.

• Balancing responsibilities: Manage coursework and internship duties efficiently with time-blocking strategies.

8. Internship Opportunities

 Students may have many exceptional experiences in their internship.  Many lead to jobs after graduation.  Here are a few examples from health-related fields:

• Care management Assistant – helping patients prepare for discharge by finding suitable rehabilitation centers and planning home therapies such as physical or occupational therapy.

• Sports Performance Center – learning both how to coach for strength and fitness and run a successful business in wellness and fitness.

• Health Coalition Resource – assisting with all aspects of a health coalition to meet the needs of members.

• Health Research Assistant – conducting research on best practices of health organizations in areas of policy and practice.

• Health Promotion Specialist – providing staff support to a health and wellness function at a university to meet the needs of students.

Resources

Here are some great resources to help college students find internships:

• Delaware’s Advancing Healthy Lifestyles Coalition – The student committee works on providing opportunities for students who want to intern in health-related fields for physical activity, nutrition, and obesity prevention. Check out the webinar Wellness for the Workforce: Preparing students for Physical Activity, Nutrition, and Obesity Prevention (PANO) careers.

• InternshipFinder – A comprehensive guide to finding internships, including tips on applications and career fields.

• Delaware Department of State Internship Program – A great resource for students interested in public service internships.

• College Magazine’s Top Internship Websites – A list of the best websites for finding internships, including Internships.com, Idealist, and Indeed.

These sites offer valuable insights, listings, and strategies to help you land the right internship. To get started you may want to reach out to your campus department chair for guidance.

Internships can be an important part of your college education, offering you numerous benefits that can prepare you for a successful career. Good luck in your internship search! 

About the Authors 

Angela Herman, DNP, RN, is the Director of Health Sciences, Wilmington University, and co-chair of the Student Committee for the Advancing Healthy Lifestyles Coalition

Devona E. G. Williams, PhD, is President/CEO, Goeins Williams Associates, Inc., performance consulting firm, a higher education leader, and facilitator for the Advancing Healthy Lifestyles Coalition