Finding and applying for internships can be frustrating, but they are excellent ways to gain real-world experience and support your education. CBUS offers practical tips and strategies to help you discover opportunities, craft standout applications, and set yourself up for success.

Internships: Gain Experience and Build Your Career

Internships allow you to explore career goals, apply classroom learning, strengthen your resume, and expand your professional network. They also provide a supportive space to learn from mistakes and gain valuable feedback to develop your skills.

Steps to Secure an Internship:

Step 1: Self-Assess
Think about the internship and the experience you want. Ask yourself:

  • What skills or learning do I want to gain?

  • What challenges do I want to tackle?

  • What work environment fits me best (hybrid, in-person, 9-5)?

  • What type of work culture will feel engaging, supportive, or challenging?

  • When is the best time for me to participate?

  • How will I balance this with school, family, or other commitments?

Step 2: Write or Update Your CV/Resume & Cover Letter

  • Visit the Career Readiness page for tips

  • Upload your resume to Quinncia for AI feedback

  • Connect with a Career Advisor for a one-on-one review

Step 3: Start Looking for Internships

  • Explore resources on the Career Readiness page

  • Attend career fairs and network in person

  • Keep track of application deadlines

Step 4: Prepare for Interviews

  • Review practice questions and interview tips on the Career Readiness page

  • Schedule a mock interview with C2Hub (Classroom to Career Hub – MSU Denver) or practice with Quinncia

  • Access professional attire resources through MyCareerCloset

Step 5: Follow Up

  • Check in on the status of your applications

  • Use suggested templates if unsure how to follow up

  • Send thank-you notes within 24 hours of interviews

  • Review tips for writing effective thank-you notes on the Career Readiness page

Resources

Career Link for Students – MSU Denver

  • Internship postings and C2Hub events are available here.

  • Meeting and speaking to recruiters in person is a great way to learn about opportunities and gives you an advantage since meeting in person can help recruiters get a sense of you before you apply.

Internship for Credit

Earn & Learn 

  • A competitive program for students completing unpaid internships.

  • Provides minimum-wage compensation to eligible participants.

Whether you’ve heard of all these resources or not, we encourage you to send this list to anyone you know at MSU Denver and help them learn more about what our university provides. At MSU Denver, education is at the forefront of our mission, but our resources represent a powerful asset in each student’s hands, and as the saying goes, it’s always good to reach out for help.

CBUS and MSU Denver are always here for their students, and if we can help at least a few people acknowledge these resources, we’ll be more than satisfied with that outcome.