Science majors! Still looking for an internship this summer? You might be wondering how you should approach searching for that science or medical internship you want. Here are some tips that can help you get started:
- Talk to your professors Your professors are important resources to talk to about finding a summer internship. They know the right programs to apply to based on your interests, what these programs offer, and many of them will gladly write a letter of recommendation for you (if you give few weeks’ notice). Also, many science professors also have their own labs on campus and are always welcoming new student researchers. In fact, that’s the beauty of Wellesley College…you don’t have to compete with graduate students for research positions! Don’t hesitate to email a professor you would like to work with and if you have a resume, attach that to your email as well. Even if you never had this professor in lecture/lab, it doesn’t hurt to reach out and express your interests and experiences.
- Visit MyCWS MyCWS is a great online resource you should use to find science and health-related internships postings. Many of these internships are posted by Wellesley alums and they want bright and intelligent students like you to work alongside them. Simply click on the “Jobs/Intern/Service/Fellow” tab within MyCWS and limit the advanced search based on your interests.
- Science Center programs Be sure to visit the Science Center webpage for information on research programs in the Science Center as well as at affiliate institutions around the country.
- REU-NSF and science.gov websites Every year, the National Science Foundation posts research experience for undergraduate opportunities (REUs) from various research institutions around the US. With an REU, you can explore research opportunities in any division of the sciences and in anywhere in the country…meaning you can do research in the comfort of your hometown or at a new location. Note: many REU programs have deadlines from mid-January to the end of February, so be sure to ask for letters of recommendation and complete your application early!
- Hospital Hiring Pages The Boston area is a great location to gain medical experience given the large number of hospitals in the area. Many of these hospitals are always on the lookout for students interested in co-ops and volunteering opportunities. Look into the career pages of these local hospitals to find positions where you will gain experience working alongside top physicians and nurses.
- Resumes…Resumes…Resumes It is important to have a clearly written resume when applying for any of these programs and opportunities. A good resume will communicate to employers about your current status, experiences, and interests. Emphasize your past experiences, highlight research techniques and expertise, clinical experiences, etc. Once you have a good draft of your resume, stop by the CWS during drop-in hours [Monday-Friday from 12:30-2:00 pm when classes are in session] to have your resume looked at by one of our counselors.
I hope you take advantage of the resources above and good luck with your internship hunting! Feel free to stop by to the CWS to have your questions answered.