How to make your internship application stand out.

Applying for internship opportunities can often feel like running a race. How can you come out on top of countless other students vying for the same career development experiences? And the competition is even more fierce when looking at paid internships.

However, by taking a strategic approach, you can stand out from other applicants. Based on Riipen’s experience connecting students with over 40,000 resume-building employer projects and internship opportunities, here are 6 best practices for landing the internship of your dreams.

1. Complete your profile.

Start by creating your profile on Riipen. Your profile should be more than your contact information and academic accomplishments. This is your chance to let your personality shine through. Share insights about who you are and your aspirations in your career journey.‍

2. Showcase your resume.

Attach your resume to your profile. While your profile provides a holistic view of your personality and aspirations, your resume offers a concise summary of your skills and experiences. Some employers prefer having this information upfront.

3. Share professional social media links.

Include links to your professional social media profiles, such as LinkedIn. These platforms offer additional insights into your professional persona. Avoid sharing links to social platforms that depict behavior that might be considered unprofessional, as it may hinder your application. And consider auditing your digital footprint and adjusting your privacy settings as needed.‍

4. Apply for multiple internships.

Engagement is key. The more internships or projects you complete on Riipen, the more robust your profile becomes. Actively participating in internships demonstrates your initiative and dedication to your career. And real-world experiences will help your internship application stand out from the crowd.‍

5. Provide feedback to employers.

Post constructive comments and insights about previous internships or projects on Riipen. Not only does this showcase your professionalism, but it also increases your likelihood of receiving employer feedback in return. This exchange signals to other employers that you are a collaborative and engaged team player.

6. Tailor your applications.

When applying to internships, customize your approach. Keep your introduction concise with a standard 2-3 line introduction about yourself. Then, tailor the last 2-3 lines to highlight why you possess the skills, experience, or passion necessary for this specific internship. This personalized touch demonstrates your genuine interest and understanding of the opportunity at hand.

In the competitive landscape of internship applications, it's crucial to stand out. By following these strategies, you can set yourself apart and increase your chances of landing that dream internship. So, let your personality shine, actively engage, and tailor your applications. Remember, you can apply to as many internships as you want, and applying to more increases your odds of finding one you love. 

To learn more about how students can benefit from Riipen’s real-world projects and internship opportunities, visit riipen.com/students.

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