Landing an Internship

What is an English internship?

• Unpaid field experience in the field of English
• Usually earns college credit
• Enhances other coursework for upperclassmen
• Looks great on resumes

Why pursue an internship?

• Build a professional portfolio
• Gain valuable experience
• Make professional contacts
• Learn new skills
• Explore interests in a way that is not permanent
• Explore the potential of an English major

What sort of work might an internship involve?

• Work in publishing
• Newspaper reporting
• Research
• Writing grants
• Various tasks at writing conferences
• Assisting a professor in teaching a class
• There are many different types of internships for English majors

How do I get an English internship?

• Often need to be a declared English major
• Often need to have junior or senior status
• Often need to have a certain GPA
• A resume is helpful
• Speak to your professors about possible internships. They will usually have lists of organizations that are interested in hiring students for internships.
• Speak with Career Services. They will have more lists of organizations some of which offer positions that are appropriate for English internships.
• Research as many different internships as are available. They often have different application processes, and it is helpful to know exactly what is necessary for each one.
• Apply for as many as possible as early as possible.
• If there is an interview process, treat it as any other job interview. Dress appropriately, and be prepared to answer questions.
• If there is a required writing sample, prepare your portfolio as professionally as possible. Pick your very best work and submit it typed, double-spaced.
• Don't get discouraged.

Good luck and happy learning!