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Internship and Job Search

What is an Internship?

An internship is an opportunity for you to get hands-on experience in a career field of interest and to further develop your professional skills. Doing an internship enables you to connect the knowledge and skills you have gained in the classroom and apply them in a real-world setting.

In addition, internships allow you to:

  • Increase your marketability and value to employers after graduation
  • Possibly earn money to offset educational expenses
  • Affirm your interest in your major or academic work
  • Identify interests and talents, and explore options within your field
  • Build a professional network needed for an effective job search.
  • Possibly earn academic credit outside the classroom

Micro-Internships

The Career Development Center recently partnered with Parker Dewey, a third-party company that hosts micro-internships on behalf of organizations. Micro-Internships are professional, paid, short-term assignments that are often completed remotely. These opportunities are an excellent way for students to demonstrate their skills, explore careers, and develop their networks as they seek internships and full-time roles.

Pre-Professional Experience

There are a number of ways for you to gain experience toward a career field of interest during your time at Saint Xavier University including internships, joining a registered student organization, studying abroad, finding an on-campus position, participating in leadership initiatives, conducting research, or volunteering. Gaining pre-professional experience will allow you to:

  • Explore potential occupations that interest you
  • Develop experience and skill sets that are desired by employers
  • Work upon your weaknesses before entering your profession
  • Develop a professional network
  • Increase your marketability to employers after graduation

Searching for Jobs

Before you conduct a job search, you will need to make sure you are prepared; this preparation can begin as early as your first year of college:

  • Develop relevant skills through jobs and internships
  • Prepare your resume and cover letter
  • Identify areas of interest and use available career resources
  • Create a LinkedIn profile and build your network
  • Perfect your elevator speech and practice it at events
  • Attend networking events and the College-to-Career Expo

For preparation suggestions by year, please review the Four-Year SUCCESS Plan. You may also refer to the Career Readiness Guide for more information or or schedule an appointment through Navigate to work with an academic and career resource advisor.

Handshake

Handshake is the official career management system of Saint Xavier University. Whether you are a first-year student, graduating senior, or alumni, you can use Handshake for your academic and career development needs:

  • Find jobs and network with employers to learn about careers and industries
  • Ask industry professionals questions and receive real-world advice
  • Connect with students and alumni at SXU and across the United States
  • Access academic and career resources
  • Message Career Development Center staff members