So you’ve spotted an interesting internship opportunity? Great! Time to use your best writing skills to develop a resume and cover letter. Most companies request that you attach these documents to an email when you apply.
How do I begin?
First, make a list of what you want to learn during your internship. Then, look closely at the details in the job description. Jot down ways your background matches up to the responsibilities. Think broadly. For example, if the job requires customer service and you had a summer job at the mall, think of ways you handled service issues. If the job requires certain technical or computer skills, remember to mention how you’ve applied technology in your courses. If the job lists areas where you have no real experience, that’s okay. Just communicate your enthusiasm and willingness to learn.
How do I write a resume?
A resume includes:
- Name, address and contact information.
- An objective statement that states what type of position you are seeking.
- The college you are attending, along with your major and a projected graduation date. Other optional information to include: your GPA, any minor or area of study, specialization, or concentration's, overseas academic experience, and honors or awards received.
- Previous job or volunteer positions. Include the title of your position, name of organization and location, dates of employment, description of your responsibilities and accomplishments.
- Special skills or accomplishments such as languages, computer skills, sports, extracurricular activities, volunteer work, leadership or teamwork activities, professional affiliations and community service.
How do I write a cover letter?
A resume is about the facts, but a cover letter should reveals a little more about who you are.
Remember to:
- Sound upbeat and confident in your letter and write an attention-getting introduction. Be clear about which position you are seeking and point out how you are uniquely suited for the job by listing relevant qualities.
- Focus on the needs of the employer. How could your background, courses, interests and enthusiasm help?
- Strengthen your letter by using facts, examples or evidence. But don’t exaggerate or lie.
- Make sure your letter is perfect – no typos or errors of any kind. Ask someone to proofread the letter before you send it out.
Show me some samples
There are lots of great online resources for writing a resume and cover letter, regardless of whether you have previous work experience. Check out the wide assortment of samples at http://jobsearch.about.com/od/teenstudentgrad/a/studentresume.htm. Or, contact the Career Development Center on your campus.