Ask the Hiring Manager

QUESTION:

I'm only a student with limited experience most jobs require x years of experience. Everything I'm looking at on the net are jobs and very few internships. If you could send me some information on internships paid or even unpaid I would greatly appreciate it. Oh yes I am a senior at SUNY@ Stony Brook.

Thank You.

From: Lori A., SUNY - Stony Brook

ANSWER FROM BRIAN KRUEGER:

Hi Lori -

The "information on internships" that you request should be "information on jobs." If you're in your Senior year, direct your job search toward finding a job first. Then, if you need to offer up services on an "internship" basis (paid or unpaid), you can always back off to that position. But you cannot do the reverse.

Please understand - my point is that you should be seeking a job, not an internship. Seeking an internship in your final year as an easy way to get around the experience requirement of most jobs is not the solution. Most companies offer true internships only to sophomores or juniors. Senior year is just that--your final year.

Perhaps you are misusing the terminology. If what you mean by "internship" is an entry level position with training (as an "intern"?), change your terminology. "Internship" is viewed as a position held by an undergrad either concurrent with attending college or during a semester off.

Understanding and using the correct terminology in your job search is important in properly communicating the correct message. Please let me know what you are looking for specifically and I can provide you with greater information.