News & Media

• Learn why it is important to get an internship while in college for career growth.
• Find out when should I start looking for an internship to stay ahead.
• Discover how can networking help me get an internship through connections.
• See can an internship lead to a full-time job and how to make it happen.

Landing that first big opportunity can feel like a mystery when you’re still in college. You hear stories about classmates scoring impressive internships, but figuring out how to secure one for yourself can seem overwhelming. Where do you start? Who do you talk to? And how do you make sure it’s the right fit for your future goals?

The truth is, internships aren’t just for students who already have connections or perfect resumes—they’re for anyone willing to take initiative and explore opportunities beyond the classroom. Whether you’re aiming for a competitive position at a large company or hands-on experience with a local organization, knowing how to navigate the process can turn an internship from a possibility into a reality.

In this guide, we’ll break down when to start your search, how to leverage your network, and why internships can be a game-changer for your career even before you graduate.

Why is it important to get an internship while in college?

Internships give you more than experience—they give you an edge. Getting one helps you apply what you’ve learned in the classroom to real-world situations. You gain insights into your field, develop workplace skills, and build connections that could shape your future career.

Employers often prefer candidates who have some kind of hands-on experience, even for entry-level roles. An internship can help you stand out in a competitive job market, and it also gives you a clearer sense of what kind of work you enjoy (or don’t). It’s a test drive for your career path and a resume builder rolled into one.

When should I start looking for an internship?

Sooner than you think. Ideally, begin your search one semester ahead of when you want to intern. For summer internships, that means starting in the fall.

Many internship programs (especially competitive ones) have early deadlines. Starting your search early gives you time to polish your resume, prepare for interviews, and tap into resources like your college’s career services office.

And don’t forget: Internships aren’t just for juniors and seniors. Even first- and second-year students can benefit from part-time or volunteer-based roles that give them exposure to their field.

How can networking help me get an internship?

It’s no exaggeration to say that who you know can sometimes matter as much as what you know. Networking connects you to opportunities that aren’t always posted online—and helps you stand out once you apply.

Networking doesn’t have to be awkward or formal. It can start with talking to professors, reaching out to alumni, or attending campus career events. Social platforms like LinkedIn also offer great ways to connect with professionals in your field.

When someone in your network recommends you for an internship, it signals to the employer that you’re a trusted candidate, which can make your application rise to the top of the pile.

Can an internship lead to a full-time job?

Absolutely. Many companies use internships as a way to evaluate potential full-time hires. If you perform well, demonstrate a strong work ethic, and fit with the company culture, you could find yourself with a job offer before graduation.

Even if the company isn’t hiring immediately, an internship can still lead to future opportunities. You may be offered freelance work, part-time projects, or glowing references that open doors elsewhere.

The key is to treat your internship like a real job: Show up on time, be proactive, ask questions, and stay engaged. You never know who’s watching, and who might advocate for you later.

Where to Start Your Search

At Lackawanna College, you’re not expected to figure it all out on your own. Our career services team is here to support you with resume reviews, interview prep, job search strategies, and more.

You can discover all the different career pathways to see where your education could take you—and find internship opportunities aligned with your goals.

When you’re ready to take that first step, explore our admissions and enrollment page to make sure you’re set up for success.