By SANDRA GITTLEN

Several ideas for finding internship opportunities

Network World, 12/21/01

Several people wrote to me after my article on the resurgence of internships was published, asking where they could find out more about internship opportunities in the IT community. Here are several suggestions.

1. Local colleges and universities. Educational institutions are great sources of information about paid and unpaid internships. Most work closely with local businesses to get students situated in the working world. Stop by and have a conversation with your local college’s computer science department administration office to find out what's available in the surrounding area.

2. Go door-to-door. There's nothing like knocking on the door of a company you are interested in. Make an appointment with human resources to find out what the company offers and how you can get your foot in the door. Instead of an internship, they might suggest an entry-level position. Make sure you know what you're looking for before you make the appointment.

3. The 'Net is your friend. Let's face it, there's a site for everything - and internships are no different. I found a couple that might be of interest:
http://internships.wetfeet.com/SearchInternships.asp
http://www.brassring.com/

Both offer information about internships across the country. Monster.com also has listings, but they seem to be geared more toward full-fledged jobs.

4. Nonprofits need you. You can get your feet wet working with a nonprofit. They are always in need of a few technical hands that can help them get their databases and networks up and running. Figure out what charity you like and then ask them if they need help. Even your local church or synagogue might want help setting up a small-scale network. Every little bit of experience helps.

5. Don't stray too far from home. You might find what you're looking for inside your own company. If you're making a big career change, don't underestimate your company's willingness to accommodate you. Who knows? They may think you're such a great employee that you would be an asset no matter what department you are in. Take advantage of this situation and work with your IT group on projects.

What do you think? Let me know at sgittlen@nww.com.

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Gittlen is Events Editor at Network World.
You can e-mail her at sgittlen@nww.com.