Impossible to find 1st year undergrad internships

I'm trying to find work for this Summer - I did an internship over my gap year, but almost every single thing I try to apply for wants someone in their penultimate year for a degree. I've done a gap year so I'll be the same age as half of these people... What's the deal with this? Does anyone have any advice on how to find good work over the summer as a first year undergrad?

Reply 1

BCU Student Rep

Official Rep

Original post

by AlfredQ

Hi @AlfredQ

You tend to find companies offer internships for students in their penultimate year of study as these students are often looking for internships for their placement year/year in industry as part of their course. It can be a bit frustrating when you're looking for experience at alternative points in your degree, but it unfortunately is part of the internship searching process. But there's still opportunities out there which don't require you to be further along in your degree.

I would suggest reaching out to companies/employers directly to express your interest in gaining experience with them. It can be frustrating if you don't hear back from everyone, or if people can't offer you an internship, but I found this the best way to get in touch with possible employers. And I managed to find an internship with an employer who didn't mind that I was only in my first year by emailing them directly.

Like I say, it can be a bit hit and miss with immediate success rates, but the more people you reach out to, the more likely you are to find something. Plus, reaching out directly shows a proactive mindset, and you could always contact companies who are advertising work placements to see if they would be able to offer an internship too - you don't know until you ask!

You can send possible employers your CV and portfolio - if it's required for the types of roles you're looking for - and explain who you are and what you're looking for to get you started.

I hope you find something. 🙂
Emily
Student Rep at BCU