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

  AI Startup Founder's Office Internship

  About the CompanyAjaia is a rapidly growing AI consultancy and product studio dedicated to helping organizations move from experimentation to real results. We operate across four core pillars: AI Strategy and Advisory, AI Engineering and Automation, Workforce Training and Enablement, and Custom Product Development.In addition to client services, Ajaia builds proprietary AI products, copilots, and vertical solutions that solve high-value industry problems. This dual model allows us to translate hands-on implementation experience into scalable products while continuously refining our approach through real-world deployment.Our operating model combines deep technical execution with practical change management, enabling enterprises to deploy secure, compliant, and high-impact solutions that drive measurable operational value. From executive roadmapping to production-ready systems and workforce upskilling, Ajaia embeds intelligent tools directly into the workflows that matter most.Mission: Help organizations win the AI moment. Position OverviewAjaia is hiring a Founder’s Office & Special Projects Fellow for a highly selective 10-week Summer 2026 fellowship/internship. This role is designed for rising juniors and seniors who can operate at the strategic edge, where ambiguity is high and leverage matters most.This is not an assistant role. It is a mini chief-of-staff apprenticeship focused on high-level thinking and execution across growth, strategy, product incubation support, enterprise narrative shaping, and internal strategic initiatives.Every role at Ajaia is AI-forward. We expect candidates to use AI in daily workflows across research, ideation, drafting, design iteration, quality checks, and delivery acceleration. AI usage is a core execution requirement, not optional tooling. Primary ResponsibilitiesAt Ajaia, you will operate close to the Founder’s Office at the point where strategy, execution, and new opportunities intersect. The role focuses on helping shape high leverage decisions that influence how Ajaia grows, where it invests, and how it positions itself in the rapidly evolving AI landscape.You will lead strategic research initiatives that explore new markets, partnership opportunities, and product directions. The goal is to translate complex information into clear insight and recommendations that support founder level decision making.You will contribute to enterprise RFPs, proposals, and strategic pitches by conducting structured analysis and helping develop materials that communicate Ajaia’s execution focused approach to AI transformation.You will build internal decision support systems that help leadership operate with greater clarity and speed. This can include founder briefing memos, KPI views, operating dashboards, and lightweight strategy tracking frameworks.A key part of the role involves analyzing competitive dynamics and emerging market trends. These insights help sharpen Ajaia’s positioning as an execution first AI firm focused on measurable operational outcomes.Along the way, you will help identify and frame new strategic opportunities for growth. This includes evaluating assumptions, mapping risks, and outlining credible pathways to scale.You will also support early stage product incubation exploration by helping define customer problems, test positioning hypotheses, and shape the strategic logic behind potential launches.Throughout the process, you will deliver clear weekly memos that synthesize insight, highlight key decisions, and outline action priorities as initiatives move forward.The goal is to help strengthen the strategic infrastructure around the Founder’s Office and contribute to the decisions that shape how Ajaia grows, builds products, and competes in the emerging AI economy.  Job Requirements• Currently enrolled in a college or university program and expected to graduate by Summer 2026 or Summer 2027. • Extremely high agency with ability to operate in gray space and unstructured problem environments. • Strong strategic reasoning, intellectual rigor, and clear written communication. • Strong synthesis skills: can process large inputs quickly and produce decision-grade output. • Collaborative operator with sound judgment, discretion, and ownership. • Demonstrated interest in startups, consulting, venture, strategy, or product leadership pathways. • No required formal work samples at application stage. Schedule and LocationNYC preferred; remote possible for high-performing candidates.This is not a strict 9 to 5 internship. Fellows are expected to work hard, switch contexts quickly, and maintain high standards under ambiguity. Core collaboration overlap is Eastern Time, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Monday-Friday. Compensation and Benefits• 10-week base compensation: USD 10,000. • Performance bonus (10-week): 0-100% of base salary, awarded based on performance against defined goals. • Total compensation (10-week): USD 10,000-20,000.Benefits• Competitive base salary + performance incentives• Remote work with earned flexibility • Professional development opportunities Why Join AjaiaThis fellowship is designed for elite generalists who want to build real strategic leverage, not complete low-impact tasks. You will work directly on founder-priority initiatives that influence narrative, positioning, enterprise opportunities, and long-term growth direction.Top fellows leave with proof of high-level judgment, structured execution in ambiguity, and presentation-ready strategic assets that materially improve decision velocity.At Ajaia, you have a unique opportunity to work at the forefront of the artificial intelligence frontier and contribute to real innovation that reaches production. We expect all team members to be AI-native practitioners who actively use AI in their daily workflows to improve speed, quality, and outcomes. Experience the Ajaia difference. Let's build what's next.

  Shelter Support Intern

  The Shelter Support Services Intern helps ensure continuity of services supports the shelter with operations, guest services support, and summer camp during the particularly busy summer months. Maintaining seamless operations while also providing high-quality customer service is the main priority of the intern who will be cross-trained to support in the shelter kitchen, the front desk/ shelter operations, and the shelter summer day camp.Duties:               Answer shelter guests’ questions and fill their supply requests. Monitor the front door by allowing staff, volunteers, and current guests into the shelter and following proper protocol for all other visitors.Update the shift summary with pertinent activities throughout the shift. Assist with administrative tasks while monitoring the front desk.Assist visitors with questions while maintaining client confidentiality at all times.Lead and/or collaborate with staff and volunteers to facilitate recreational and educational activities for school-age children.Ensure a comfortable and safe environment for everyone; supervise summer camp activities and immediately notify staff if additional help is needed.Actively engage with children during summer camp including demonstrating activities, providing extra support for children who need it, and building rapport with summer camp participants.Consistently utilize positive behavior reward system to reinforce children when they demonstrate behaviors like sharing, taking turns, help their peers, etc.Maintain overall cleanliness of kitchen including countertops, dishes, sinks, floors, etc.Assist with the organizational system in the kitchen by sorting and storing items in their proper place when they arrive to the kitchen, restocking supplies and rotating stock based on expiration dates.Assist with meal preparation by gathering ingredients, cutting vegetables, and other preparatory tasks.Serve lunch to shelter guests and assist with clean up after the meal.This is a paid summer internship, made possible by a grant from Atlantic Union Bank. Must be a current student and commit to 30 hours a week for eight (8) weeks. 

  Summer Camp Cooking Instructors

  Camp Walt Whitman is seeking a Culinary Instructor for Summer 2026! As the culinary instructor, you will be teaching kids aged 8-15 basic culinary techniques and recipes throughout the summer.Plan, develop, and carry out lessons for campers aged 8-15.This is an opportunity to be creative and create amazing food with the children. You will need to maintain an organized and inviting kitchen while accommodating the many and varied levels of culinary abilities of our campers. To be successful in this role, you will be someone who is energetic, organized, well-prepared, and flexible. Dates: June 11th – August 9th, 2026Salary + travel stipend + room & board are all provided*internship opportunities available - just ask so we can work with your school to match internship criteria!*Some educational institutions require prior approval before the start of an internship. It is the responsibility of the student to check with their institution to be sure they meet any requirements before they accept a position.WHAT YOU WILL GAINCommunication, time management, teamwork, creativity, flexibility, work ethic, adaptability, flexibility, interpersonal skills, problem solving, independence, initiative, and much more!ABOUT CAMP WALT WHITMANCamp Walt Whitman is a premier, co-ed, traditional sleep-away camp located in the beautiful White Mountains of New Hampshire. With over 400 campers and 200 staff, Camp Walt Whitman is an incredible place to meet people from all over the world in a warm, welcoming, and inclusive community. We work together to provide our campers with a positive and powerful experience that will last a lifetime, all while having a ton of fun and gaining valuable skills in leadership and communication along the way.APPLY HERE!!Working at Camp Walt Whitman on VimeoContact Info:Matt Karnermatt@campwalt.com1-800-657-8282 | www.campwalt.com

  Outdoor Logistics Coordinator

  CAMP WALT WHITMAN OUTDOOR LOGISTICS COORDINATORAre you a master of organization with a passion for the White Mountains? Camp Walt Whitman is looking for a high-energy Outdoor Logistics Coordinator to serve as the "engine room" of our adventure program. This is a unique hybrid role that blends critical behind-the-scenes operations with high-impact field leadership.You’ll ensure our wilderness trips go off without a hitch by managing gear, food, and transport, while also getting the chance to lead campers through some of the most beautiful terrain in the Northeast. Core Responsibilities1. Logistics & OperationsGear Management: Maintain, inventory, and repair outdoor equipment (tents, stoves, packs, sleeping bags). Ensure all gear is clean and safe for camper use.Trip Packing: Organize and pack "trail-ready" food bins and specialized equipment for multi-day backpacking and canoeing trips. 2. Field Leadership & InstructionHiking: Lead campers on day hikes throughout the White Mountain National Forest, ensuring safety and fostering an appreciation for nature.Technical Elements: Assist in facilitating our Rock Climbing program and High Ropes courses (training provided).Safety: Maintain strict adherence to CWW safety protocols and Leave No Trace (LNT) principles. Who You AreOrganized & Detail-Oriented: You’re the person who knows exactly where the spare fuel canisters are and never forgets to pack the salt for a three-day trek.Mountain Savvy: Comfortable navigating trails and spending long days outdoors in various weather conditions.A Natural Mentor: You love working with children and can turn a logistics delay into a fun "teachable moment."Problem Solver: You stay calm when a van battery dies or a tent pole snaps, finding solutions quickly and efficiently. QualificationsMust be at least 21 years old (for vehicle insurance purposes).Experience in outdoor education, camp settings, or wilderness leadership is a plus.A clean driving record and comfort driving large passenger vans.Familiarity with the White Mountains is a major plus! Why Join the CWW Team?Beyond a competitive seasonal salary, you’ll join a premier summer camp community that feels like family. You’ll have the White Mountains as your backyard, a chance to sharpen your technical outdoor skills, and the satisfaction of knowing you’re the reason our campers have life-changing adventures. Dates: June 6th – August 9th, 2026Salary + travel stipend + room & board + WFA certification*internship opportunities available - just ask so we can work with your school to match internship criteria!*Some educational institutions require prior approval before the start of an internship. It is the responsibility of the student to check with their institution to be sure they meet any requirements before they accept a position. WHAT YOU WILL GAINCommunication, time management, teamwork, creativity, flexibility, work ethic, adaptability, flexibility, interpersonal skills, problem solving, independence, initiative, and much more!ABOUT CAMP WALT WHITMANCamp Walt Whitman is a premier, co-ed, traditional sleep-away camp located in the beautiful White Mountains of New Hampshire. With over 400 campers and 200 staff, Camp Walt Whitman is an incredible place to meet people from all over the world in a warm, welcoming, and inclusive community. We work together to provide our campers with a positive and powerful experience that will last a lifetime, all while having a ton of fun and gaining valuable skills in leadership and communication along the way. APPLY HERE!!Working at Camp Walt Whitman on VimeoContact Info:Matt Karnermatt@campwalt.com1-800-657-8282 | www.campwalt.com

  DHHS Summer Internships

   Fourteen (14) Vacancies Available Summer 2026 Internships - Columbia | Job Details tab | Career PagesAll applicants must apply through the above link, applications through Handshake will not be considered. The Agency's mission is to be boldly innovative in improving the health and quality of life for South Carolinians. These internships are located in the Department of Health and Human Services - Jefferson Square Building, Richland County. This is an in-office role and not a telecommute or remote position. Are you looking for a Summer Internship? Interns will complete a 12-week internship in a division most closely relating to their field of study. The interns will report to a division supervisor who will assign their daily and weekly tasks which will include but are not limited to: administrative tasks, assisting on projects, creating deliverables, quality assurance, research and review, and complete all other duties as assigned. The intern will also complete regular check-ins with supervisor, evaluations throughout program, and complete professional development courses as assigned by the Agency's training and development division.We are looking for Fourteen (14) Interns to fulfill positions in multiple divisions within the agency, such as:Actuary/ReimbursementsBureau of Information TechnologyBureau Infrastructure & OperationsBureau of QualityBureau of PolicyOffice of Appeals & HearingsOffice of CybersecurityOffice of Health ProgramsOffice of Third-Party LiabilityThe Interns will be under the general supervision of the Division Supervisors.  Interns will be responsible for fulfilling the requirements of their internship as follows:  Division Support: Perform all duties correctly and completely as assigned by supervisor; Attend cross-division meetings and training opportunities; Assist on initiatives and projects; Follow all DHHS policies and procedures.Professional Development: Develop a professional development plan with the supervisor; attend courses/seminars/workshops as required or planned. Evaluations and Feedback: Complete regular check-ins with supervisor; Complete both a mid-program and final-program evaluation; Complete presentation on overall experiences at the end of internship. Performs other related duties as assigned by the supervisor.  Minimum and Additional Requirements Intern applicants must be U.S. citizens, at least 18 years of age on or before the first day of the internship, and meet at least one of the following criteria:  Currently enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate degree program at a college, community college, or university (two-to-four-year institution)Graduated from an undergraduate or graduate degree program at a college, community college, or university (two-to-four-year institution) no more than two years before the first day of the internshipNot a previous internCandidates must attach the below documents: Cover LetterResume Must be available to work a minimum of fifteen (15) hours per week during the semester.  Preferred Qualifications Basic knowledge of Microsoft Suite.Understanding of policies and procedures.Customer Service skills.Ability to learn in different environments.Ability to communicate between stakeholders and employees.Willingness to grow and learn daily.Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Summer 2026 Internships - Columbia | Job Details tab | Career PagesAll applicants must apply through the above link, applications through Handshake will not be considered.