In this article, you’ll learn why taking information security internships is a great move. You’ll also learn here how to land one.
The job hunt landscape is more competitive than ever. Furthermore, every job listing requires, at the very least, some experience. That sounds very discouraging if you are a new college graduate. How can you gain the needed experience if it’s your first time entering the workforce?
Information security internships will help you gain experience in the field. It’s a temporary position, either paid or unpaid. Colleges and universities often offer career guidance and internship placement programs. Make the best out of those opportunities to find the perfect internship for you.
Types of Information Security Internships
Each internship is unique. Hence, you must first make thorough research before making a decision. As we have mentioned earlier, career counselors and internship placement programs can assist you. Here are the different types of information security internships:
- Paid internships. Obviously, any job seeker likes this kind of internship. However, these are quite harder to find and get compared to unpaid internships. Paid internships often turn into full-time job offers. Moreover, private companies and large organizations often offer such internships.
Paid interns may get paid by the hour, salary, or a lump sum. Paid interns usually get lower wages than a full-time or part-time job in the same field. Yet, these are still very beneficial. That is because they often turn into a full-time position.
- Unpaid internships. This is more common and often short-term. This is still very beneficial even you’ll expect no compensation. Why? Because like other internships, this will prepare you for the workforce. Moreover, you’ll receive hands-on training in the job. You’ll also get the chance to work with professionals in the field.
The skills and experience you’ll gain here are invaluable for the future.
- Externship. This is more like job shadowing. In an externship, you’ll observe and assist a well-respected individual in the field. An externship’s timeframe is indefinite. Students may shadow a respected professional anywhere from one day to several months.
- Internship for credits. Most colleges and universities require graduating students to have information security internships. Requirements on how to gain credits vary per school.
How To Apply For An Internship
Like an actual job, organizations don’t just give out internships. You need to stand out among other candidates. Hence, maintain excellent grades. Also, participate in as many extracurricular activities as much as possible. In-school opportunities will help you strengthen your resume and cover letter.
Prepare a cover letter alongside the resume. Focus on your school achievements since it is most likely that you’ll have a lot of work experience. Include the following:
- Projects
- Skills
- Volunteering
- Extracurricular activities
Both cover letter and resume must focus on the field you are hoping to enter. You must tailor both of those depending on the company you wish to work with. Hence, it’s crucial that you research first the industry and the company before submitting applications.
Organizations often interview students before accepting them as interns. Take it seriously as you would in a job. Job listing websites often list common interview questions.
