How to Secure a Summer Internship While Studying at University

Published On: June 24, 2025

Landing a summer internship while you’re still in college can feel like trying to book a concert ticket during a flash sale—everyone’s going for it, and seats fill fast. But the good news? With a smart strategy and a bit of hustle, you can absolutely score one—and even better, one that actually helps your future.

So how do you secure a great internship when you’re juggling classes, exams, and maybe even a part-time job? Let’s break it down.

Table of Contents

Start

Timing is everything. Most students begin applying in January or February for internships that start in May or June. But top companies (especially in tech, finance, and media) may post as early as September.

If you wait until spring, you’re already behind the curve. Get a head start, and you’ll have more choices, less stress, and a better shot at those big-name roles.

Research

Don’t just shoot your résumé into the void. Do your homework.

Use your university career portal. Most schools have listings specifically for students.
Visit company websites. Look for “Careers” or “Internships” sections.
Explore LinkedIn, Handshake, and Indeed.
Check department boards or professors’ networks. Some internships are never advertised—they’re shared by word-of-mouth.

Narrow down internships that match your major, interests, and career goals. Target 10–20 roles that fit you well.

Resume

Your résumé is your first impression, and it better shine. Here’s what to keep in mind:

Keep it to one page.
Tailor it to each role. Use keywords from the job description.
Highlight projects, part-time jobs, volunteer work, or even coursework.
Include quantifiable results when possible (e.g., “Increased social media engagement by 40%”).

Pair it with a solid cover letter. Show you’ve researched the company and explain how you’ll add value.

Network

It’s not always what you know, but who you know. Networking can give you the inside edge.

Go to career fairs. These are goldmines for internship leads.
Use LinkedIn. Connect with alumni, professors, and industry professionals.
Ask for informational interviews. People love to talk about their work—and those chats often lead to referrals.
Talk to professors or TAs. They may know about upcoming opportunities or recommend you directly.

Apply

Apply early and apply smart. Instead of sending out 100 generic applications, focus on 20–30 well-researched, personalized ones.

Don’t forget to follow up. A short email one week after applying can help your name stand out.

Here’s a mini checklist:

Task	Status
Resume ready	Yes
Cover letter customized	Yes
Applications sent	No
Follow-ups sent	No

Interview

Once you land an interview, it’s showtime. Here’s how to prep:

Research the company. Know their mission, services, and recent news.
Practice common questions. Like “Tell me about yourself” or “Why do you want this internship?”
Prepare your own questions. Show you’re engaged, not just desperate.
Dress the part. Even if it’s virtual, look sharp.

Confidence matters, but so does authenticity. Be honest about what you know—and don’t know—but always emphasize your willingness to learn.

Standout

Want to go the extra mile?

Build a personal website or portfolio.
Create a short video intro about yourself.
Attend niche conferences or competitions in your field.
Send a thank-you email post-interview—always.

These small touches can separate you from a sea of similar applicants.

In short, landing a summer internship takes effort, but it’s totally doable. Start early, stay organized, network like a pro, and bring your A-game to every step. The right opportunity is out there—you just have to reach for it.