5 Creative Ways to Land the Internship of Your Dreams

Ishaan Pahwa

Are you a Gen Z looking to land the internship of your dreams? With so much competition out there, it can be challenging to stand out from the crowd. But don't worry, we've got you covered! Here are 5 creative ways to land that dream internship.

1. Slide into their DMs

That's right, slide into their DMs! Connect with professionals in your desired field on social media platforms like LinkedIn and Instagram. Send them a message expressing your interest in their company and ask if they have any internships available. Don't be afraid to be bold and show your personality! Be Creative, send them a Video or your portfolio, and PITCH YOURSELF.

Steps to Slide into their DMs:

• Research professionals in your desired field on social media platforms

• Follow them and engage with their posts

• Send them a direct message expressing your interest in their company and TELL THEM WHAT YOU CAN DO FOR THEIR COMPANY 

• Then ask if they have any internships available. 

• Follow up if you don't hear back after a few days

2. Tap into Your Network

Your network is a valuable resource when it comes to finding an internship. Reach out to friends, family, and professors to see if they know of any internship opportunities. Attend networking events and career fairs to meet professionals in your desired field.

Steps to Tap into Your Network:

• Make Sure your LinkedIn / Portfolio / CV is updated and shows what YOU CAN DO and have done. Instead of the Job Description, everyone puts in their profiles

• Make a list of people in your network who may be able to help you find an internship

• Reach out to them and ask if they know of any opportunities

• Attend networking events and career fairs and be prepared to talk about your interests and goals

• Follow up with any contacts you make

3. Create a Personalized Video

Stand out from the crowd by creating a personalized video to showcase your skills and personality. Use video editing software to create a professional-looking video that highlights your experience, skills, and why you would be a great fit for the company.

Steps to Create a Personalized Video:

• Use video editing software to create a professional-looking video (Loom or just get creative)

• Introduce yourself and explain why you are interested in the company

• Highlight your experience and skills

• Be creative and showcase your personality

4. Participate in a Hackathon

Participating in a hackathon can be a great way to showcase your skills and connect with professionals in your desired field. Hackathons are events where participants work together to create a project or solution in a short amount of time.

Steps to Participate in a Hackathon:

• Research hackathons in your area or online

• Sign up to participate and form a team if necessary

• Use your skills and creativity to create a project or solution or learn those skills with courses. If you don’t know, you can learn, don’t forget that

• Present your project or solution to the judges and network with professionals at the event

• If you lose, use that project to get feedback, and showcase it as your learning experience on LinkedIn

5. Volunteer, Volunteer, Volunteer

Volunteering can be a great way to gain experience and make connections in your desired field. Look for volunteer opportunities that align with your interests and skills. It is the easiest way to get experience. Remember the Corporate Paradox: You need experience to get a Job, You need a Job to get experience. So create your own Job, Simple!

Steps to Volunteer:

• Research volunteer opportunities in your area or online

• Choose an opportunity that aligns with your interests and skills

• Volunteer your time and skills and make connections with professionals in your desired field

• Ask for a letter of recommendation or reference if applicable
  
  

Landing the internship of your dreams can be challenging, but by using these creative strategies, you can increase your chances of success. Remember to be bold, showcase your personality, and make connections with professionals in your desired field. With the right mindset and approach, you can land that dream internship and jumpstart your career!