Five Tips to Hunt for an Internship in Canada

Programs with work placements are a smart way to launch a career!

The weather is getting warmer again, and so is the job market! Students are hunting for internships, summer jobs, or first jobs after graduation. Many Humber programs have internships/work placements/co-ops as part of their curriculum; these help students get valuable work experience.

Remember these tips when you kick start your internship hunt!

1. Go For Informational Interviews
   Through informational interviews, you get an opportunity to meet those currently doing your dream job. These interviews are a great way to know more about that job, the company, its culture, people, industry trends, etc. People are often very helpful and agree to meet for such interviews.
2. Attend Networking Events
   Attending networking events can help you not only make connections with industry professionals, but also get comfortable striking up a conversation with strangers. Carry your business card at these events, as it makes it easier to ask for a business card from someone you want to connect with.

3. Make Cold Calls
   Companies often don’t post internship listings online. It is worthwhile to call up companies and ask whether they are currently looking for any interns and whom could you send your resume to. If they are looking for interns, you are already ahead of the game by making that phone call.
4. Volunteer
   Volunteer for annual awards shows or conferences in your field of interest. These are the events where industry experts come; you should definitely try to volunteer for one such event to connect with them.
5. Get Help from the Career Centre
   Go to your school’s career centre and seek advice. Humber’s Career Centre guides international students in preparing their resumes and cover letters as per the Canadian industry format and standards. It also does mock interviews!