This blog will cover the importance of internships, especially in the modern job market as requirements for entry level jobs keep fluctuating! It will also cover some tips for students to make the application process easier.
Ever looked at an internship or entry level job asking for years of experience, and just outrageous demands towards applicants? Well, don’t worry. We are all in the same boat. I know it is super frustrating that we need experience to get a job, and to get experience we need a job, and so on. It is like some sick loop that all undergraduate students complain about. For many students, the sheer number of requirements and the competition can feel... overwhelming. Trust me, I have been there. Amidst these pressures, internships have emerged as one of the most valuable ways to gain practical experience, build professional networks, and make the transition from student life to the workforce smoother. This blog will guide you through surviving this tedious internship search.
Internships offer students the chance to bridge the gap between academic learning and real world work. They provide exposure to professional environments, allowing students to finally apply the theories and skills learned in the classroom to actual projects. At first glance, it sounds exciting as we finally get the opportunity to get our heads out of our notebooks and theories. However, the hurdle to actually landing an internship is a pretty steep one. At Constructor University, internships are mandatory during the summer of the second year, allowing students the opportunity to develop industry ready skills. Beyond fulfilling curriculum requirements, internships help students develop critical soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and time management. They also allow students to explore different career paths and discover what they enjoy and excel at before committing to a long-term role. I personally think this point is important, as very often, the actual job places we imagined in our minds are very different in reality. Internships can also help students learn to handle professional challenges, adapt to workplace culture, and manage their time effectively, all of which are pivotal for success in entry level positions.
I was blessed with the pleasure of experiencing the importance of internships first hand during my second year. My rental contract required me to stay in Bremen over the summer, which limited my options to internships either in the city or remote positions. This made finding an internship particularly more difficult, and there were moments when I wondered whether I would be able to find anything suitable. After several applications, I finally secured a remote online internship with a startup company. During this internship, I was in charge of developing a game, collaborating closely with UI designers and artists. This experience enhanced my communication and teamwork skills, improved my ability to meet deadlines, and provided opportunities to apply my academic knowledge to real world problems. Beyond that, it gave me a very much-needed confidence boost, showing me that I could contribute meaningfully to a professional project even while still a student. By the end of the internship, I felt far better prepared for future entry level roles and more aware of the type of work environment that suits me. This overall experience helped me gain a more positive outlook towards my potential future careers after graduation but also helped me realize the areas which I should work on in my major. It served as motivation to study further than what I learned in university.
Securing an internship is not always easy, but there are strategies that can significantly improve your chances. The first and most important tip is to start applying early. Beginning applications well in advance opens up more opportunities and reduces last-minute stress. I know this sounds like a pain for procrastinators, but this is the one thing that you cannot afford to delay. This is especially relevant for students at Constructor University, where summer internships are mandatory in the second year. Starting early ensures you have time to explore multiple options and choose one that aligns with your goals, rather than settling for the first position that comes along. It also gives you the chance to improve your application over time, seek feedback, and carefully prepare for interviews.
The second tip is to monitor job postings closely and submit applications as soon as possible. Make it a habit to check linked-in on your phone often. Just a few minutes in the morning can make a huge difference! Human resources professionals often receive hundreds of applications for each position, and early applicants tend to be noticed first. Being proactive demonstrates enthusiasm and initiative, which can set you apart from other candidates. Checking postings regularly also allows you to take advantage of less advertised opportunities that may be more flexible or better suited to your skill set.
The third tip is to tailor your CV to each specific job. This means researching the company, understanding the job requirements, and highlighting experiences and skills that align with what the employer is seeking. A generic CV rarely stands out, but one that clearly demonstrates why you are suited to the role can make a significant difference. Employers want to see that you have taken the time to understand their organization and that you are genuinely interested in the position. Small adjustments, such as emphasizing relevant coursework, projects, or prior experience, can make your application more compelling. This is way more effective than just blindly mass applying to jobs!
Finally, consider all opportunities, including unpaid or volunteer internships. While paid internships are ideal, they can be extremely competitive, particularly in large companies. Startups or smaller organizations often have limited budgets and fewer applicants, making them more accessible and less intimidating for students. These opportunities still provide invaluable experience and the chance to develop skills that will be attractive to future employers. They also tend to offer a broader range of tasks, giving students the opportunity to learn more varied aspects in their field of studies and build a diverse skill set.
The benefits of internships extend far beyond the CV. They provide opportunities to build professional networks and gain insights into workplace culture. They also allow students to apply theoretical knowledge in real world situations, preparing them for the expectations of full-time roles. Moreover, internships give students a sense of direction, helping them identify the type of work they enjoy and the environments in which they thrive. By experiencing the day-to-day realities of professional life, students can make more informed decisions about their careers and understand the skills they need to develop further.
In conclusion, internships are an essential steppingstone between university studies and professional employment. While the process of finding the right internship can be challenging, starting early, monitoring opportunities carefully, tailoring applications, and considering volunteer positions can greatly improve your chances. The experience, skills, and confidence gained through internships not only make students more competitive for entry-level jobs but also provides a clearer sense of career direction. For students navigating the uncertainties of the modern job market, internships are more than just a requirement; they are an investment in the future. Taking the time to engage seriously with these opportunities can make a lasting impact on your professional journey and set the foundation for a successful career. And remember, if you are struggling to find an internship or job, don’t worry. You are not alone. Keep applying and keep your head high!
Written by Siwoo Lee (Class of 2026)
