Readers - you may have missed application deadlines, had competing responsibilities that made internship applications hard to prioritize, or come from a major where internships are not strongly emphasized. This is more common than you think, and it does not mean you are behind. Michelle and I have both been where you are (and we still made it so you will too!!) Internships are valuable, but they are not the only way forward.
And if you must dedicate your summer to working to support yourself or your family, no problem! The ideas below are designed to help you gain experience conveniently while balancing other priorities.
1. Join CareerSpring
CareerSpring is a job placement platform committed to helping first-generation and/or low-income students secure professional opportunities, including internships. We recommend joining to gain access to a diverse network and explore a wide range of potential career paths. Visit CareerSpring!
2. Complete an externship and/or job simulation
Externships are short term, typically unpaid or stipend-based, learning experiences that offer a glimpse into a specific career path. Participants may be asked to complete assignments and projects that result in a certificate of completion, making it a great addition to your resume. Visit Extern to explore current opportunities! Similarly, there are job simulations available on Forage.
3. Reach out to professors for research opportunities
Email 2-3 professors in your department or a department you are interested in and inquire about opportunities regarding research. Many students miss this opportunity early on (we did), but it is valuable across all disciplines, such as medicine, law, education, and psychology.
4. Volunteer or shadow in your chosen field
In fields like medicine, law, and the liberal arts, many small to mid-sized organizations welcome students to shadow professionals or support projects during the summer. Find organizations aligned with your interests, identify the right contact, and send a brief email with your resume asking about shadowing or volunteer opportunities. Adjust the following template accordingly!
5. Support a small business or nonprofit
Offer help to a local business or nonprofit with social media, operations, marketing, or administrative tasks. Although this may be an unpaid experience, the problem-solving skills you gain in an entrepreneurial setting are transferable to any industry and make you stand out.
6. Find an opportunity at a startup
Startups, or small early-stage companies, are often seeking extra help. Because teams are of limited size and the work is fast paced, you will likely get to take on a mix of responsibilities and contribute in profound ways. Startup experience stands out on resumes because it conveys your ability to think strategically and take initiative with minimal instruction.
7. Learn 1-2 skills and build a project
Select skills that interest you and align with your future goals, such as writing, coding, design, data analysis, or a language. Then, create something aligned with your interests - an app, blog, podcast, or research - to demonstrate the skills in practice. For example, if you are learning to code, build an app. Organize everything into a simple portfolio so your work is easy to access and share.
8. Create a LinkedIn profile and connect
Regardless of your major, LinkedIn is one of the most important tools for networking and job discovery. Connect with professionals, and consider requesting a virtual or in-person “coffee chat” to learn more about careers and industries that interest you.
9. Earn certifications
Organizations like Google and Amazon offer certifications in areas like analytics, cloud computing, and digital marketing. These can strengthen your resume by validating technical skills. In fact, my SAP certification was the primary reason I was selected for my first project at KPMG.
10. Start applying
Applications for Fall 2026 and Summer 2027 internships will open as early as July. In June, start a simple Excel tracker with companies, roles, and expected application dates. In July, check back regularly and apply as soon as applications open. Early applications give you an advantage.
