Internships: a beyond complicated ordeal. Most employers are looking for someone who is experienced, but you are still getting your feet wet with your major. I am even more frustrated with the fact that my major is graphic design, and I feel that no one wants to hire someone who they think “can’t” design. So where do I even start?

First off, I spent a good half hour of panicking in tears (please don’t do this). However, this led to me emailing my art director and setting up a meeting with her. She gave me the best advice ever: Create a list of dream jobs from companies you would love to work for. From that, start tailoring your resume to fit those clients. They may be out of your reach, but it helps you focus on creating an impressive resume and piecing logistics together, rather than applying willy-nilly to any place possible.

I had her look over my resume, cover letters, etc., and then she told me, “All right, now just apply.” I was rather confused, because I feel like the jobs are way beyond my capabilities, and the companies are not advertising that they want an intern. She explained that just because they are not promoting internships, does not mean they will not welcome the extra help. Plus, if you show that you are passionate and willing to learn, they are probably willing to show you a couple ropes.

We’ll see how this strategy works, but it seems pretty hopeful. What are your tips or strategies for attaining an internship? Any good successes or roads not to travel down?

-Kd.