Editor’s Note: Even though Emma Ledbetter has graduated, The Daily Evergreen has decided to continue the Ask Emma segment with a new author in honor of our friend Emma and all the people she has helped.

Dear Emma,

I really want an internship this summer that will push me further toward my career goals. I don’t really know where to start because I feel like if I apply I won’t get one. What should I do? 

Sincerely, 

Feeling Anxious 

Hi Feeling Anxious, 

This is a very common feeling! I think everyone feels this at some point that is career driven. Don’t worry though, there are definitely a lot of things you can do at WSU that will increase the chances of getting your dream internship. 

The first thing I would say is sign up for any clubs or extracurriculars that align with your major or “dream job.” This will be great for your resume and show companies that you are actively expanding your skills.

The next thing is to have a clean and clear resume that will ‘WOW’ the company you are hoping to impress. The truth is that you are going to have to work hard to get the job you want. 

By working hard, it’s reaching out to your professors for help, saying yes to opportunities, signing up for clubs and going into office hours. 

A good resume should be on one page, and to be honest, companies aren’t only looking for the most qualified, they are looking for someone who will benefit the most from the job. Companies are typically hoping to find a future employee, so they will choose someone who will show up and do their very best every day. 

If you are worried about your resume appealing to employers, the Academic Success and Career Center on campus offers one-on-one resume help, along with multiple other resources to help you land a job.

Application time can seem overwhelming but apply to as many roles and companies as you can. If there are fifteen roles you might qualify for, apply. Sending in an application won’t hurt as much as regretting not applying will.

Do not underestimate yourself! If you put in the work to achieve your dreams, most likely they will happen. 

The next tip I have would be to prepare well for your interviews. I can tell you from my experience, the interviewing process isn’t easy and can be very intimidating. For starters, if you are interviewing virtually, make sure your background isn’t too overwhelming. Keep it simple! 

Make sure you are wearing professional clothing. You can almost never go wrong with business casual. 

Prepare and research everything about the company prior. It is way better to go into an interview with more knowledge than you need. You will also want to have stories and examples to prove it. 

Lastly, be yourself. Yes, this sounds cliche but it’s true! The interviewer wants to see the personality of the potential candidate they will be working with. 

Internships aren’t going to just fall in your arms. You’re going to have to work, and you’re going to have to be motivated. But by following some of the tips that worked for me… I know you can get there! 

Good luck! 

Sincerely,

Emma