Summer MBA Internship
It is important to start working torward your summer MBA internship as soon as you set foot on campus, if not before. Internships vary greatly when it comes to pay, responsibility, exposure, and prestige. However, your internship will likely be one of the most beneficial aspects of your MBA experience, and thus, not a matter to be left to the last minute. MBA internships allow students to apply their skills in a real world environment, ideally in their preferred concentration. Furthermore, an internship is one of the best ways to expand your network and, ideally, secure a job offer prior to graduation.
However, in an economic climate that can make it a challenge to secure even an unpaid internship, it is crucial to use every resource available to secure your summer MBA internship in a timely manner. Keep in mind, many of the most desirable MBA internship opportunities are extremely competitive and have early cut off dates- sometimes as early as December for summer opportunities. The process of applying for an internship is reminiscent of the MBA application process. If you want a good example of just how intense it can be, visit the Microsoft website and view the section on the internship application process.
Your success in securing an internship will be greatly influenced by the institution you are attending. Your program's connections, image, and career services department will have a large impact, or lack therof. However, regardless of the involvement on the part of the institution you are attending, you will need to work hard to land a good summer MBA internship. Below are some common resources used to find internship opportunities.
Networking
Utilizing your contacts is by far the most efficient way to secure an internship. Doing so exposes you to a wider selection of internship opportunities and can afford you some amount of goodwill or character reference going into an organization. Utilizing your contacts involves spreading the word among friends, family, and social network sites that you are in need of an internship. And of course, take advantage of your connections in your program- career services, projects that involve working with businesses, and your classmates. Now, there is a good chance that a classmate seeking the same Finance MBA intership you are will not be forthcoming with the opportunity. However, if you are looking for a Marketing MBA internship, that same classmate may be more than willing to send an opportunity your way.
Books
There are many books that offer information about different MBA internship opportunities. Internships are organized by industry and location, among other criteria. Furthermore, there is information regarding the application process, compensation, and general characteristics of each company. Two examples are The Vault Guide to Top Internships and The Internship Bible.
Career Sites & Search Engines
There are many available websites and search engines that show internship opportunities in a variety of industries and locations. Two examples are Monster and CareerBuilder.
Good Old-Fashioned Research
Another effective method for locating summer MBA intership opportunities is identifying locations and industries in which you are willing to work. Then, identify those companies that meet your criteria and familiarize yourself with each MBA internship application process via their websites.
When pursuing a summer MBA internship it is important to take advantage of all the resources available to you, stay organized, and begin your search in a timely manner.