Remote internships are often more convenient for students. They allow you to work for a company located anywhere in the country (or world) without needing to live somewhere else for the summer. This means you can fit your internship around other commitments, such as a part-time job or summer classes. It may even be possible to travel at the same time as working. However, all these advantages mean remote internships are also more competitive. To land one yourself, here are a few things you can do.
1. Search Job Sites
Searching for an internship is exactly like looking for a job. Most job websites have all kinds of employment opportunities, including internships. The advantage of using job sites is they tend to include clear information about the qualifications and skills they want from candidates along with the duties of the internship. This helps you evaluate a number of options quickly.
As well as filtering for just remote (and perhaps hybrid) options, you may like to search within particular industries or use keywords to find the ideal position. Experiment with broadening your search until you find opportunities you’d like to apply for. Once you’ve found some options, tailor your resume to a specific job, gather letters of recommendation, and provide a portfolio of your work (if relevant) to ensure you stand out from other candidates.
2. Attend Campus Career Fairs
The likelihood is your university holds regular career fairs on campus. Take advantage of these as soon as you start thinking about your internship. Talk to any employers doing the kind of work you’re interested in, even if they’re not specifically at the career fair to offer remote internships — they may have opportunities you’re unaware of. Some may even be willing to create a program just for you, if you show enough interest.
See the career fair as the first step toward applying for an internship. Wear a professional outfit and think about the impression you make to employers, such as through the questions you ask.
3. Look for Internships with Companies You’d Like to Work For
Your last option is to reach out to companies directly. Look at the careers sections on company websites to see if they have any internships listed. Large companies, in particular, often offer remote internships.
Getting the Most Out of Your Remote Internship
You need to put in extra effort to see the full benefits of your remote internship. Before you begin, make sure you’re prepared with all the tools and technology you’ll need, including fast Wi-Fi and a modern laptop. It’s also worth thinking about what your daily routine during your internship will look like. Coordinate with your employer to set suitable work hours (these may be flexible) — make sure you don’t go overboard just to make a good impression. Finally, check in with your supervisor on a regular basis to ask questions and receive feedback.
If you are able to land a remote internship, you’ll be able to continue living in your student apartment over the summer. If you still haven’t found uOttawa off-campus housing that you love, look no further than 417 Nelson. You’ll be able to spend your summer in a community with other students that has everything you need on site, including high-speed internet, bike storage, parking, and laundry facilities. Contact us to learn more.