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

  Communications and Social Media Internship

  EMPOWER – Potential Internship Outline: Communications & Social Media OverviewThis internship would be designed for individuals interested in developing hands-on experience in communications, social media management, and website updating within the environment of a human service non-profit organization . The non-profit empowers people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and their families through direct hands-on support, advocacy, education and community inclusion.  The intern would ensure engagement with stakeholders (especially families and employees), and timely dissemination of relevant news. The position involves coordination across departments and collaboration with consultants, staff, and community stakeholders.Desired OutcomesStrengthen community and family engagement through effective messaging. Increased visibility of quality care, community inclusion and recreational efforts to all stakeholders, helping to highlight improvements being made.Support organizational transparency by keeping employees and stakeholders informed. Improved access, frequency and transparency of information for people with disabilities and their families. Enhanced communication across all levels of the organization. Promoting transformative culture shift and keeping quality service vision and goals in front of workforce.Strengthened relationships between staff, families, community and board members.Key Responsibilities1. Digital and Print Newsletter ProductionCreate and curate content for a monthly newsletter targeting families, advocates, and board members.Collect stories, testimonials, and photos that capture the organization’s impact and showcase individual achievements.Draft articles on upcoming events, advocacy opportunities, legislative updates, and resources for families.Design digital and print layouts, ensuring accessibility and clarity.Coordinate production and distribution via email, T-Logs, Splash messages, website, and printed copies for those without digital access.2. Monthly Announcements and Updates for EmployeesResearch, draft, and distribute monthly announcements regarding organizational news, policy changes, upcoming events & trainings, and relevant external developments affecting employees.Coordinate with department heads to gather information on projects, recognitions, and important milestones.Utilize internal communication channels (e.g., Therap EHR, Litmos LMS, email blasts, intranet, bulletin boards) to ensure all staff remain well-informed.Monitor feedback and adjust content to match employee interests and needs. 3. Social Media ManagementMaintain and update the organization’s social media accounts (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, etc.).Develop a content calendar aligned with organizational goals and key events. Establish an annual calendar and schedule posts to average 3/week.Highlight stories, share resources, and promote advocacy initiatives.Respond to comments, messages, and engage with followers to foster a positive online community.Monitor analytics and adjust strategy to increase reach and impact to families and local community.4. Website UpdatingUpdate the organization’s website content regularly, including news, events, program pages, and resources.Ensure website accessibility standards are met for people with disabilities.Collaborate with IT or web development staff as needed for technical updates and troubleshooting.Post blog articles, spotlight features, and multimedia content relevant to IDD advocacy and family support.5. Cross-Departmental CollaborationWork with program staff to gather information and highlight successes.Coordinate with fundraising and management teams to promote campaigns and events.Attend select staff meetings to identify communication needs and opportunities.Assist with special projects, such as technology platform implementation, recruitment initiatives, advocacy days, or volunteer recruitment drives.Sample Monthly WorkflowWeek 1: Collect news items, staff updates, and stories from consultants and department heads. Begin drafting announcements and newsletter articles.Week 2: Edit and finalize content for internal announcements and newsletter. Schedule social media posts and website updates.Week 3: Design digital and print newsletter layouts. Distribute drafts for feedback from consultants, HR and department heads.Week 4: Publish and distribute monthly announcements and newsletter. Monitor engagement, gather feedback, and prepare analytics reports.Reporting RelationshipWould report to Human Resources, receiving guidance, feedback, and support from HR professionals and administrative consultants. The HR department in conjunction with administrative consultants would collaborate to ensure that all messaging aligns with organizational values and legal requirements. Skills and QualificationsStrong written and verbal communication skills. Ability to initiate creatively with management team.Proficiency in social media platforms and basic graphic design tools (Canva, Adobe Creative Suite, etc.).Experience with website content management systems (WordPress, Wix, Squarespace, etc.) would be preferred.Ability to prioritize tasks, manage time effectively, and meet deadlines.Commitment to inclusivity and advocacy for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Ability to follow guidance on best practices for disability-friendly messaging and layouts, ensuring that information is appropriate for release, understandable and engaging for all audiences.Attention to detail and willingness to learn new skills. August, 2025

  Environmental Intern

  The Wesson Group is a leading heavy civil and infrastructure contractor specializing in transportation, energy, and environmental projects. We are committed to building with integrity, innovation, and sustainability while protecting the communities and natural resources where we work. We are seeking a motivated Environmental Intern to join our team and collaborate on projects throughout Western New York. This internship provides hands-on experience in environmental compliance and sustainability practices within the construction industry, making it an excellent opportunity for students interested in environmental science, engineering, or related fields. This is a full-time, hourly paid position. Responsibilities:Assist with environmental site inspections and compliance monitoring.Support implementation of erosion and sediment control measures.Help ensure compliance with federal, state, and local environmental regulations.Collect and organize environmental data, logs, and reports.Assist in preparing documentation for environmental permits and audits.Collaborate with project managers, engineers, and safety staff to integrate environmental best practices on active job sites.Participate in training sessions, toolbox talks, and environmental awareness initiatives. Skills & Qualifications:Currently pursuing a degree in Environmental Science, Environmental Engineering, Civil Engineering, or a related field.Interest in environmental compliance, sustainability, and construction management.Strong organizational and problem-solving skills.Effective communication and interpersonal skills.Willingness to work in both office and field environments, with travel to project sites in Western New York.Knowledge of environmental regulations (EPA, NYSDEC, MS4, SPDES) is a plus. The Wesson Group, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer

  E-commerce/ Social Media Marketing

  Social media/ e-commerce marketing intern position for a new product launch. It is a dental/cosmetic product.Bringing the product to an internet presence on Instagram, tiktok, you tube, facebook,  and other sites to bring presence and public awareness. We will discuss market strategies and consumer  engagement.

  Safety Intern

  The Wesson Group is a leading heavy civil and infrastructure contractor specializing in transportation, energy, and environmental projects. With a strong commitment to innovation, sustainability, and workforce safety, we strive to build projects that make a lasting impact in the communities we serve. We are seeking a motivated Safety Intern to join our Health & Safety team to collaborate on projects throughout Western, New York. This internship provides hands-on experience in construction safety management and is an excellent opportunity for students interested in occupational safety, construction management, or engineering. This is a full-time, hourly paid position. Responsibilities:Conduct daily safety observations and field audits.Support compliance with OSHA, MSHA, and company safety programs.Assist in incident investigations, reporting, and corrective actions.Maintain and organize safety records and training documentation.Participate in toolbox talks, training sessions, and safety meetings.Collaborate with project teams to promote and reinforce a strong safety culture. Skills & Qualifications:Currently pursuing a degree in Occupational Safety, Construction Management, Engineering, or a related field.Basic knowledge of OSHA and/or MSHA regulations (preferred).Strong communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate across teams.Organized, detail-oriented, and eager to learn.Willingness to work in both office and field environments, with travel to project sites in Western New York. The Wesson Group, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer

  Videographer Intern

  Paid Internship – Videographer  Organization: Amazigh NationsLocation: Arlington VA/HybridDuration: 3 months Compensation: Paid Internship ($15/hour or stipend depending on role and commitment) About Us Amazigh Nations is a Non Profit Organization focused on sustainable couture, cultural storytelling, creative campaigns, and art programs. We are launching a new fashion campaign and are looking for creative and motivated students to join our team. Videographer (Intern)Film and edit campaign video content (lookbook, behind-the-scenes, short promos).Support in setting up lighting, audio, and camera equipment.Edit videos for social media, website, and marketing. Preferred Skills:Familiarity with video cameras/DSLR filming.Proficiency in Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut, or DaVinci Resolve.Ability to tell visual stories in short-form video. General Requirements (All Roles)Current student (Photography, Film/Video Studies, Communication, Art, or related majors preferred).Able to commit 6-8 hours/week for the duration of the internship. What You’ll GainHands-on experience working on a real fashion campaign.Portfolio pieces for photography, film, and/or digital media.Professional mentorship and networking opportunities.Paid internship with flexible scheduling. How to ApplyPlease submit via Handshake:ResumePortfolio link (photography/video/social media samples)Short note on why you’re interested in this internship