How do I get an Internship?

These are methods to help you find the right internship for you.

• Spend some time thinking about what type of internship experience you are interested in completing
• Brainstorm a list of organizations you would like to intern.  
• Meet with your academic department's Internship Coordinator
• Talk to potential employers at career and internship fairs.
• Remember, if you do not find an internship experience listed with the organization you're interested in, go directly to the source and inquire further!  Visiting the employer website can provide you with details on any internship programs they may have, or provide you with the information you need to inquire further.
• Don't forget to check on LinkedIn as well, where you can search for internship and entry-level job postings with companies related to people in your LinkedIn network.
• Reach out to your network via an informational interview, and make sure you ask where the person you are interviewing would recommend starting to look for internships in your field of interest.
• Make sure to fill out all of your paperwork correctly when applying for a posted internship! 
• Need more help?  Check out all the different ways that the Career Development Center can assist you!
• Check out the organizations’ websites and learn about their mission, noteworthy items that have been in the news, new program developments, and staff members.
• Handshake is a great resource for researching organizations that are specifically invested in Minnesota State Mankato students (See link to Video/Screencast below)
• Talk with people in your network to see if anyone has additional information about the organization you are interested in—often they have the “off the record” scoop and you can learn a lot from trusted sources.
• Keep organized notes on your findings to use as a resource in the application and interview process.
• Utilize your notes to form solid questions that you will ask at the end of your interview. You will impress them if you say “Upon doing some research, I found ____. Can you tell me more about this?”
• In any interactions with employers, know that they are the experts. Approach conversations with curiosity, not authority.

   

  Current Internship Openings

  Summer Research Assistant: Attacks and Defenses in LLMs

  Large Language Models (LLMs) are increasingly deployed in real-world AI systems, where they interact with users, external tools, and sensitive data. Despite recent advances in alignment and safety, LLM-powered systems remain vulnerable to a wide range of attacks, including data poisoning, backdoor insertion, prompt injection, and jailbreaks. These vulnerabilities pose serious risks to model reliability, privacy, and regulatory compliance.This project focuses on identifying and understanding security and safety weaknesses in LLMs, as well as developing effective defense mechanisms to improve their trustworthiness. We will study how malicious behaviors can be introduced during training, fine-tuning, or deployment, and how they may be triggered through carefully crafted inputs or compliance-driven operations such as model unlearning. On the defense side, we aim to design techniques that enhance robustness, transparency, and interpretability of LLMs, enabling practitioners to better detect, analyze, and mitigate hidden threats.Interns will gain hands-on experience with state-of-the-art LLMs, attack and defense methodologies, and experimental evaluation of AI safety mechanisms. The project is suitable for students interested in AI security, trustworthy machine learning, and foundation model research, and provides an opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research at the intersection of machine learning, security, and responsible AI.

  Agricultural Intern

  Agricultural Internship.Easton, Maine In every role, McCainers are ambitious, curious, and passionate about creating exceptional work experiences - together. With a customer-first mindset, we make doing business with McCain easy. About the role.We are seeking a motivated Agricultural Intern to join our team for a four-month term, beginning in May 2026. As part of our Agricultural team, you will gain hands-on experience working in our Easton area field locations in Maine. This role offers a valuable opportunity to develop practical skills and contribute to real-world agricultural projects alongside experienced professionals. During assignments, the intern will be exposed to grower relations, crop monitoring and intelligence, raw product alignment, cost of production, research and applied science and extension activities, including agronomy and sustainability, and the general operation of a commercial agriculture department.The intern will be exposed to McCain manufacturing operations and will have the opportunity to complete a series of in-house training modules that are part of a broader McCain Agriculture training program. Join McCain’s Agricultural Internship Program to gain hands-on experience with innovative farming practices and work alongside expert teams. Discover the full journey of our potatoes, and learn how quality and sustainability drive everything we do. Grow your skills, benefit from dedicated mentorship, and help shape the future of food in a dynamic and supportive environment. What you’ll be doing.The Intern is the support position at the local office to research and analyze data to improve crop management in the area. Work is planned and conducted under the Agronomist's guidance and with the Department Manager's advice. Projects may include the following: Agriculture economics: You will participate in researching and analyzing local production data and observe the process of managing local raw supply.Agriculture production – you can deepen your knowledge of potato production and monitor crop status.Agriculture research: Under the supervision and direction of the company agronomist, you will design, collect, and analyze data on projects relevant to the company’s future, including sustainability and production improvement. You will also participate in extension work promoting new techniques and best-growing practices.Sustainability—Learn and contribute to McCain’s sustainability goals of reducing carbon emissions and improving the regenerative agriculture practices of our potato growers. In addition, you will:Promote relations between the company and growers through periodic farm and storage visitsTrack and evaluate potato varieties and their performance in the factoryAssist in developing research needed to determine best agricultural practicesInvestigate pest/disease management practices in the local areaStatistical evaluation to identify best practices and data trendsMonitor and analyze internal raw product inspection proceduresEducate local growers on new field production and storage management techniques through written material, field demonstrations, tours, seminars, and workshopsAssist in collecting and analyzing the grower field and/or bin sampling programAnalyze cost of production What you’ll need to be successful.College Junior/Senior majoring in Ag Science, Plant Science, Ag Business, Ag Economics, or a closely related disciplineKnowledge of farm practices and vegetable production is desirable but not necessaryBasic to Intermediate skills in word processing, spreadsheet, data management, and presentation preparations. Statistical computer applications are preferredCommunication skills – must be able to speak effectively both to individuals as well as to groups, making short presentations in group settings, familiar with video conferencingMust be able to write routine correspondence and reports to a variety of audiencesA valid driver’s license, comfortable flying/driving long distancesWork outside in different weather conditions under the sun and in a variety of temperaturesOccasionally requires substantial physical effort and working in awkward positions About the team.The agricultural team provides a supportive team that will encourage you to be and do your best and a safe and flexible working environment that promotes work/life balance. Working with the McCain team you will be a part of meaningful work and projects and have the opportunity to be part of our student community to connect with students across North America. There is so much to learn and grow in, and we love teaching you what we do! About McCain.Click Here to learn more about McCain and how we provide you with opportunities to make an impact that matters. Leadership principles.At McCain, our leadership principles guide how we engage with customers, collaborate as a team, and achieve success. We focus on understanding customer needs, driving innovation, empowering people, and taking ownership to clear obstacles and deliver results. The McCain experience.We are McCain. This statement is a testament to our collective strength and our individual value. Your contributions play a vital role in our success. Our winning culture is rooted in authenticity and trust, empowering us to bring out the best in one another. Here, you’ll find opportunities to learn, grow, and thrive. Join us and experience why we’re better together. Compensation Package: $23.00-$26.00 USD hourly wage equivalent,  paid as a non-exempt salary. The above reflects the target compensation range for the position at the time of posting. Hiring compensation will be determined based on experience, skill set, education and training, and other organizational needs. Benefits: At McCain, we’re on a mission to create a winning culture that puts employee safety and well-being at the heart of what we do, every day. We understand and appreciate that each person’s needs are unique and ensure our benefits & well-being programs reflect that. Due to the duration of this role, you will not be eligible for traditional benefits through our programs. McCain's early careers programming offers a multitude of learning experiences aimed at advancing your career in the future. Your well-being matters to us, and we’re here to provide you with the necessary resources to support you in being your best self at work — and at home. McCain Foods is an equal opportunity employer. As a global family-owned company, we strive to be the employer of choice in the diverse communities around the world in which we live and work. We recognize that inclusion drives our creativity, resilience, and success and makes our business stronger. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law. McCain is an accessible employer. If you require an accommodation throughout the recruitment process (including alternate formats of materials or accessible meeting rooms), please let us know  and we will work with you to find appropriate solutions.  Your privacy is important to us. By submitting personal data or information to us, you agree this will be handled in accordance with McCain’s Global Privacy Policy and Global Employee Privacy Policy, as applicable. You can understand how your personal information is being handled here.

  Intern - Inclusion & Belonging

  Job Summary The Summer Internship Program at Bread Financial allows college students to develop a variety of skills within different areas of our business. Over the summer, interns will collaborate with several teams and departments, building a firm knowledge of our business and company culture. Participants will also go through a professional curriculum, attend social and philanthropic events, and participate in executive round tables. The program targets rising junior and senior undergraduate students and graduate students.The Inclusion & Belonging team advances a culture where all associates feel valued, connected, and empowered to do their best work. Leveraging strategy, data, and storytelling, we also support Associate Resource Groups (ARGs) which are open to all associates and are key drivers of engagement, development opportunities, and community building. Interns participate in designing programs, collaborating on communications, and driving strategic initiatives that strengthen inclusion and belonging across the enterprise. Essential Job FunctionsGaining an understanding of the associate’s related area of the enterprise and completion of role-specific training provided by their respective team. Participate and demonstrate new knowledge gained through individual coaching and training conversations, while continuing to expand knowledge of the broader organization. - (30%)Activity-based Training Development curriculum and Talent Mobility programs to facilitate participant development. - (20%)Demonstrate outstanding verbal and written communication skills when working with internal and external partners. Present information in a clear, concise, and professional manner utilizing technology and innovation. - (15%)Build and maintain effective internal and external business partnerships. Identify, resolve, and escalate concerns as needed. - (15%)Learn proper process and procedures relevant to an associate’s respective team. Utilize knowledge of Microsoft Office tools and specific job-related technology. - (10%)Actively seek out opportunities to expand knowledge of the broader business. By completing overviews of other teams, project interactions, or other cross functional collaboration, continuously expand knowledge of the organization, offerings, and innovations. - (5%)Follow established guidelines for quality and productivity. Act responsibly to minimize risk and ensure compliance. Support internal and external audits. - (5%)Minimum QualificationsHigh School Diploma or GEDEntering Junior year of bachelor’s degreePreferred QualificationsPrevious completion of a Bread Financial Summer InternshipSkillsMicrosoft OfficeTime ManagementProfessional EtiquetteReports To: Supervisor and aboveDirect Reports: 0Work EnvironmentNormal office environment. (Remote or Hybrid), 3 to 4 days per month are required in office if within 60 miles of a Bread Financial location.Physical and Mental RequirementsTo perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential job function satisfactorily and meet the physical, mental and work environment requirements. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions, absent undue hardship.Typing/Writing Other Duties This job description is illustrative of the types of duties typically performed by this job. It is not intended to be an exhaustive listing of each and every essential function of the job. Because job content may change from time to time, the Company reserves the right to add and/or delete essential functions from this job at any time. 

  Patron Services Intern

  TITLE: Patron Services InternSTATUS: Seasonal, Full-Time, May 26-September 4LOCATION: In-PersonREPORTS TO: Theatre ManagerDEPARTMENT: Patron ServicesCOMPENSATION: $3150 stipend tax-exempt, scholarships availableBENEFITS (SUMMER ONLY): housing, three meals a day, free access to classes, performances, talks, and studio usage. Travel stipend provided ranging from $0-$500. SCHEDULE: (6) Day work week averaging 48-55 hrsPOSITION OVERVIEWThe Patron Services Intern plays a vital role in delivering an exceptional experience for patrons, artists, and staff at Jacob’s Pillow. Working directly with the Patron Services team, the intern will gain hands-on experience in all aspects of guest services, including box office operations, ticketing, and front-of-house support for the 2026 Festival season. This position offers the opportunity to develop customer service and event management skills, engage with diverse patrons, and work in a dynamic arts environment.RESPONSIBILITIESTicketingAssist with the day-to-day operations of the box office, including selling, exchanging, and resolving ticketing issues at the window and directly with patrons.Manage the daily inventory of will call tickets, ensuring all tickets are printed, alphabetized, and prepared for every performance.Address additional ticketing requests via the box office email and assist the remote call center when needed.Maintain open communication with Front of House regarding pre-show updates, including changes to showtimes, performance cancellations, or weather-related adjustments, and ensure patrons are informed promptly.Front of HouseServe as the first line of communication and support for Theatre Managers.Assist with pre-show and Front of House setup, ensuring all supplies and equipment are prepared and operational.Support Theatre Managers with volunteer management, stepping into a leadership role when needed to assign tasks and roles to volunteers.Facilitate house opening procedures, assist patrons entering the theater, and address seating issues or patron concerns with effective problem-solving.Maintain close communication with the box office to ensure accurate timing for productions, helping shows start as close to their scheduled time as possible.Additional Patron Services TasksAssist with group visits, ensuring they are prepared and supported throughout their experience.Provide additional Front of House support for special events and Pillow activities, sometimes outside regular festival hours.Attend all department and staff meetings, contributing to team discussions and staying informed on operations.Show up on time and fully present for all assigned rotation shifts and duties.As a member of the intern class, you will be required to participate in general festival-related duties that aim to broaden your scope and understanding of the various arts administration and production roles that exist within this field as time allows and requirements evolve. These will include but are not limited to giving campus tours, assisting with production changeovers in the theater, golf carting patrons, handing out tickets at will call and other ways to interact with guests, moving chairs, setting up for events, errands, and transporting artists.  Training will be provided prior to participation in these activities, and while these duties will be a part of your overall experience, you will still spend the majority of your time within your primary assigned role.5-8 hours a week will be dedicated to participating in weekly seminars, career building conversations, attending dance classes, lectures, and performances. REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONSStrong customer service orientation and enthusiasm for engaging with a diverse audience.Willingness to be an example of inclusivity and foster a welcoming environment for all.Ability to assist and communicate effectively with patrons from varying backgrounds, cultures, and with diverse needs.Ability to maintain professionalism in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONSInterest in or experience with arts administration, customer service, event management, or a related field.Willingness to learn and grow in a dynamic environment.Openness to taking on leadership responsibilities in a front-of-house capacity.Comfort with being front-facing and engaging in diverse interactions with patrons, artists, and company members.Ability to adapt and remain flexible in a fast-paced setting where changes may occur quickly in the moment.Excellent communication skills and comfort interacting with large groups.SKILLS & ABILITIESEagerness to learn and adapt to various aspects of arts administration.Ability to work collaboratively and with sensitivity toward patrons, artists, and colleagues.Demonstrated problem-solving skills and ability to respond calmly to challenges.Committed to a culture of continuous learning and growth, with a focus on advancing Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, Accessibility, and Belonging efforts, while fostering a welcoming, equitable, and supportive environment where everyone feels valued.WORKING CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL DEMANDS Office setting with shared workspace in close proximity to colleagues.Regularly required to be outdoors in varying weather conditions, including inclement weather.Shifts may require standing for extended periods.Ability to communicate effectively in loud and bustling environments.Adapting to a festival-style 6-day work week with varying hours and responsibilities.Occasional heavy lifting, such as moving tables, chairs, and event supplies across campus.Frequent interruptions and shifts between tasks in a busy, dynamic environmentWorking regularly outdoors in all weather conditions, including inclement weather.Working regularly in wooded areas with exposure to native wildlife, including, but not limited to, rodents, ticks, and mosquitos.Ability to work evenings and weekends.APPLICATION PROCESSVideo and/or audio applications are welcome (though not required), in addition to written expressions of interest.Potential candidates will submit their applications for consideration. The selection process includes:Pre-Screening: Candidates will undergo a preliminary review, which may include a call or video interview.First Interview: Selected candidates will have an interview with a seasonal Patron Services employee and possibly an employee from another department that collaborates closely with Patron Services.Final Interview: Candidates advancing to the final stage will interview with the Director of Patron Services.Additional Documents: We may ask for a writing sample or a sample spreadsheet to better understand your expertise and fit for the role.Accessibility Accommodations: Should you require any accommodations to facilitate your application, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at hr@jacobspillow.org. We are committed to providing support throughout the application journey, whether that’s through email, a phone conversation, or a video call.

  Performance Marketing Intern

  JOB SUMMARYPurpose Financial is seeking a detail-oriented Performance Marketing Intern to join our Purpose Financial Marketing Team. In this role, you will support measurable business results by developing and executing data-driven marketing strategies, fueling digital marketing platform growth, supporting organization top level goals You will report to the Director, Performance Marketing.JOB RESPONSIBILITIESPaid Performance Execution, Monitoring, Analysis and Optimization:Execute ad buying strategies across programmatic platforms, social networks, search engines and other digital platforms, while ensuring proper tracking and optimization.Conduct in-depth analysis of campaign metrics, audience behavior, and conversion paths to inform strategic optimizations and budget reallocation decisions to maximize efficiency and ROI. Testing:Design and optimize testing framework for all digital marketing, including tests across audiences, creatives, landings, as well as avenues like Affiliate marketing.Create and measure rigorous A/B and multivariate testing to maximize learnings. Collaboration:Work closely with internal performance marketing, creative, and analytics teams to align digital marketing efforts with campaign objectives and share optimization insights. Market Intelligence:Stay ahead of industry trends and emerging best practices to keep Purpose Financial at the forefront of performance marketing innovation.Compliance:Respond to Compliance team requests and ensure all campaigns comply with platform policies and industry regulations AccountabilityUnderstand, adhere to and enforce all corporate policies. QUALIFICATIONS  Equivalent Education Level Required: Relevant course work or experienceExperience Required: Degree program or relevant experience aligned to responsibilitiesKnowledge Required: Excellent written and verbal communications skills; adaptability and flexibility to changing environment; and comfortable working in a dynamic, high volume, fast-paced environment. Ability to understand and ensure compliance with policies, procedures, and laws governing our industry/business and products.Physical Requirements: Sitting for long periods of time; standing occasionally; walking; bending; squatting; kneeling; pushing/pulling; reaching; twisting; frequent lifting of less than 10 lbs., occasional lifting of up to 20 lbs.; driving and having access during the workday to an insured and reliable transportation; typing; data entry; grasping; transferring items between hands and/or to another person or receptacle; use of office equipment to include computers; ability to travel to, be physically present at, and complete the physical requirements of the position at any assigned location.Travel: N/AAttire: Business CasualOther: Must be eligible to work in the USA and able to pass a background check.