/
Internships & Careers

Internships & Careers

Owned by Carmen Escobedo
Last updated: Apr 14, 2023
3 min read

What is an internship?

An internship is an opportunity for you to connect what you are learning in the classroom to the real world.  Internships are completed at a company or organization for a specific duration of time.  You are typically assigned entry level tasks to complete under the guidance of an individual who works at that company or organization.  Students who complete internships or more likely to receive full-time job offers after graduation (some with the same company, others with different companies).

How do I find an internship/job?

There are multiple ways to find an internship/job but the key is to diversify your methods.  Some students find them by simply applying at the company or organization's website.  Others use internship/job search databases.  Some student go to career/job fairs.  Others attend workshops or participate in events and network with individuals who work at those companies or organizations.

Is there an internship/job database I can use to start my search?

YES, the UW subscribes to Handshake - a database where employers list available internships and jobs.  It's a platform used by companies and organizations to find college and recently graduated talent.  You may also find this list of A&A companies helpful.

What happens once I find an opportunity?

Once you find an opportunity, there are multiple stages of the process you will go through:

  • APPLYING: Filling out the application and providing a resume/cover letter

  • INTERVIEWING (for those invited): Presenting yourself via telephone/video conference/in-person

  • NEGOTIATING (for those selected): Discussing start date, duration, salary, benefits, etc.

When is the best time to complete an internship?

It is most common for students to complete an internship during the summer as there are no required courses during that time.  Sometimes it is possible to complete an internship during the regular academic year though.  [PRO TIP:  The peak hiring season for summer interns or careers that start in the summer occur in September & October.  Many employers are looking for talent during these months.  A second wave of hiring, smaller yet significant, occurs in January & February].

I can't find an internship or job.  What am I doing wrong?

Probably nothing.  However, it could also be one or more of the following things:

  • You haven't applied to enough internships/jobs yet

  • Too specific on type of internship, where the internship is located, when you want to start.

  • Your resume/cover letter needs to be reviewed again

  • Your interviewing skills can use some polishing

Where can I find help with my resume/cover letter, interviewing, negotiating?

These two UW offices provide you with help via a full range of workshops as well as one-on-one coaching sessions.

Can I earn internship credit to use towards my degree?

YES, the department partners with the UW Career Center @ Engineering where you can earn internship credits.  For each full-time internship experience you participate in, you can earn up to 2 credits of ENGR 321 (Engineering Internship Education).  Up to 6 credits of ENGR 321 & A A 499 maximum may be used towards the A&A technical elective requirement.

For career events & workshops, please visit the UW Career & Internship Calendar.