Friday morning of my stay in Boston, I attended a seminar at the Sheraton hotel. I listened to Alexandria Pence, a senior in high school from Kentucky, speak about Internships. I was fascinated from Alexandria’s advice she gave to the audience and found it extremely helpful. Unaware of why an internship is important? According to Alexandria, “Participating in an internship throughout your high school career is a great opportunity to prepare yourself for the future. Gaining experience working with a business or group helps one acknowledge the duties of a real life job or responsibility.”

So, what was the “great advice” that she gave? First of all, you need to make sure you present yourself as if you are right for the job. Businesses and groups look for someone who is qualified enough to handle all of the responsibilities that come with the internship. The speaker highly recommended to make sure everything that you don’t want the general public to see on your social media should be removed. In other words, that silly online photo or video of you at that Redondo party last Friday night could cost you.

Now the next step is getting in touch with the program(s) of your choice that can give you an internship. Facebook message a staff member, write a formal email, or personally talk to them! Get connections! Show them what you are capable of and let them know you are interested in their job. You can even flatter them and they may pass on your name to others! Basically, present yourself in the best way possible. This goes for dressing formally and standing out during your interview for the internship. Before an interview, do some research in order to be well aware of the program you are applying for. In addition, it will prepare you for any future questions you may be asked. Companies want to know how to reach out to the younger generation, that’s why they need you to guide them. Apply for an internship to prepare yourself for the career you want to pursue!