tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-89487721089322663572024-03-13T21:12:57.814-07:00The Good InternTips and tricks on how to become the best intern in the business from a girl who's seen just about it all.Michelle Pencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11380343629358541303noreply@blogger.comBlogger38125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8948772108932266357.post-86793953884938266322011-04-27T08:34:00.000-07:002011-04-27T08:34:12.859-07:00Moving On Up... From Intern to Full-Time<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KPMVLq7XrI8/Tbg294c5RXI/AAAAAAAAALM/q55hvTE8AQM/s1600/young-professional-woman-mdn1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KPMVLq7XrI8/Tbg294c5RXI/AAAAAAAAALM/q55hvTE8AQM/s320/young-professional-woman-mdn1.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">http://bit.ly/fFHEc9</td></tr>
</tbody></table>I seem to be cursed...<br />
<br />
...but this curse is actually a good thing. <br />
<br />
In two of the internships I've done I've unexpectedly been promoted to from intern to a higher position because of some unforeseen circumstance. <br />
<br />
Not long ago my boss called me during the workday and informed me that because a staff member had quit he was promoting me from intern to full-time legal assistant starting immediately.<br />
<br />
Armed with a significant promotion and a learn as I go attitude I moved my things to my new desk and although I was excited for the new opportunity I couldn't help but think, "Here we go again." <br />
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">The first time I found myself in a similar situation was when I was interning for a State Senator the school year before and filled in as legislative assistant while the regular employee was out sick for over a month. Even though I wasn't completely trained for the position I learned quickly and arranged hearings of the Senator's committee, submitted committee reports, and prepared bills to be turned into the Senate floor. It was stressful, but a great experience.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">The major difference from when I was interning for the Senator to my current situation was that before I was only in the higher position for a month while now it was indefinitely. </div><br />
I'm lucky because there's nothing I love more than a good challenge and having to teach myself new things and to really have to use my brain to succeed. The stress of these kind of situations makes everyday exciting and new. While the fear of failure is present in my mind the feeling of accomplishment after being successful in a new position and exceeding people's expectations is always worth it.<br />
<br />
My suggestion for someone in the same position is to grasp the opportunity and get to work. Situations like these look amazing on a resume because they show you are capable of adapting to situations and make great stories for essays or personal statements. Accepting the challenge will help you grow in ways you can't even imagine.<br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Be realistic</span><br />
I'm only taking a few classes since it's my last semester of college so while working 40+ hours per week is still stressful, it's doable for me right now. If this opportunity would have come up the semester before while I was focusing on studying for the LSAT and applying for law schools I would have had to explain to my boss that while I was honored that he thought of me for the position I couldn't handle working full-time and was happy in my current position.<br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Expect more</span><br />
When I filled in as the legislative assistant I didn't get any type of raise or extra compensation because the switch was temporary and I was doing a program through my school which I was completely fine with. I was just happy to be getting the extra experience. <br />
<br />
In my current situation I had sought out the internship on my own was a paid intern working along with going to school. When the promotion came along I had the expectation that by switching to working full-time I would be treated like all of the other full-time employees. Luckily, my employer was great about working with me on a new schedule and making sure I was compensated well and on the same level as all of the other employees.<br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Ask for help</span><br />
It's important to be able to figure some things that you are unsure of about the new position on your own, but you also need to find a good support system that you can rely on to answer questions or reassure you that you're on the right track, whether it be a supervisor or a co-worker. Having confidence is a major part of succeeding in a new position and having this support system really helps with that.Michelle Pencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11380343629358541303noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8948772108932266357.post-90276319061743334602011-03-20T20:28:00.000-07:002011-03-20T20:28:09.517-07:00The {Hated} Intern: Sticking It Out When Times Get Tough<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-UMui1AOCzrU/TYbEADGOQVI/AAAAAAAAALI/yeIDb79dSU0/s1600/seller_frustrated_opt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-UMui1AOCzrU/TYbEADGOQVI/AAAAAAAAALI/yeIDb79dSU0/s320/seller_frustrated_opt.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">http://bit.ly/Hpdqa</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Not that long ago something happened at my internship that shook my faith in interning which as you can imagine is very hard to do. In all of the internships I have done I have been faced with a range of obstacles from being given tasks I didn't think I could handle to even just restlessness, but one thing I hadn't come across yet (to my knowledge) was being literally hated by someone in the office.<br />
<br />
I came into this internship excited and anxious to work, but never thought that this enthusiasm would rub someone the complete wrong way. While I was bouncing around doing what I was told to do, little did I know that inside of one of my coworkers was a little ball of negativity towards me that was growing bigger and bigger each day.<br />
<br />
My boss, who also happened to be my mentor and a former teacher with an extremely busy schedule, would occasionally have me meet for lunch to discuss new assignments and answer my questions. What I didn't know at the time was back at the office my lunch meetings weren't sitting well with my coworker who had a jealous eye. Since this was a learn-as-you-go type of internship I did my best to be self-sufficient and figure things out for myself, but inevitably questions came up. When I did ask a question I was met with an unhelpful brick wall from the coworker who had somewhat of an obligation to help train me. The worst was when my boss gave me a task that specifically required me to talk to her because it was impossible to get any help or direction.<br />
<br />
I have pretty thick skin, but when my boss told me that my coworker was telling him that I wasn't doing my job or didn't deserve a holiday bonus I was flustered and realized my professional reputation was at stake.<br />
<br />
After I found out about that I started avoiding contact at all cost. I even started walking around the office in a way that let me avoid her desk. There were a few very friendly people in the office who would be happy to try to help me so I started going to them for help and guidance. I was lucky that the situation eventually worked itself out on its own with a change of staff, but I will never forget being "the hated intern".<br />
<br />
Getting it through that tough situation taught me a few things about dealing with tension with coworkers.<br />
<br />
<ul><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>If a situation with a coworker is hindering your ability to do your job go to your supervisor sooner rather than later</b>.</span> It shouldn't be a fight just to fulfill your basic responsibilities.</li>
<li><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The less drama the better.</span> </b>An emotional blow-out is the last thing you want which is why you have to carefully decide whether or not a confrontation is the right choice.</li>
<li><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Don't gossip about it.</span></b> Talking about the issue with other coworkers is only going to make the situation worse and will just drag it on and make it harder to ignore.</li>
<li><b style="font-size: x-large;">Find people you <i>can </i>rely on. </b>Chances are there are other people in the office that would be happy to help you with what you need. Make an effort to find these people and utilize them instead of dwelling on your unhelpful coworker.</li>
</ul><div>Have you ever been in a tough situation with a coworker. If so, how did you handle the problem?</div><div><br />
</div><div><br />
</div>Michelle Pencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11380343629358541303noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8948772108932266357.post-58374086755704334422011-02-20T20:59:00.000-08:002011-02-20T20:59:56.895-08:00Super Intern! How to Balance an Internship and a Job.<div style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br />
</div><br />
<a href="http://www.exnerassociates.com/juggling72.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://www.exnerassociates.com/juggling72.jpg" width="219" /></a>One of the main criticisms that I hear from students about my blog and internships in general is the issue of some internships being unpaid or not paid very well. While most people agree that internships are a great way to move forward professionally, the issue of pay seems like a dark cloud looming overhead. <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">People tell me, "An internship would be cool, but I really need to make some money so I'm just going to work instead."</span><br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">My question to those people is why not do both? </span> Although balancing an internship and a part-time job requires excellent time management skills it is completely doable, especially during the summer. With the mindset that you will be bringing in income while at the same time gaining valuable experience that will help your career, working your schedule to include both an internship and a part-time job should be no problem.<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Be the master of your own schedule</span><br />
Sit down with your schedule in front of you and block out all of your existing time commitments to figure out when you can realistically fit in an internship and time to work. Since many internships will take place during the morning or afternoon look for a job that allows you to work evenings or weekends. The important thing is to know how much time you can commit before you start applying so you don't end up stretching yourself too thin on time.<br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Make a budget</span><br />
Force yourself to do a little math and determine exactly how much income you need to make in order to support yourself, including rent, groceries, spending, etc. Fit into your schedule enough work hours to make the amount of income you determine you need and then schedule time for an internship around that. Another option for making a little extra income to support yourself is by asking your parents or other family members for a some monetary support. If you explain that you really want to focus on an internship that will help you professionally they might be happy to temporarily help you out.<br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Be upfront</span><br />
<a href="http://mediabuzz.monster.com/nfs/mediabuzz/attachment_images/0000/1056/Time_crop380w.jpg?1256671363" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="210" src="http://mediabuzz.monster.com/nfs/mediabuzz/attachment_images/0000/1056/Time_crop380w.jpg?1256671363" style="cursor: move;" width="320" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Many internships are more flexible with scheduling than you might think, especially unpaid opportunities that realize you need to support yourself as well. Make a point to explain your situation to your supervisor and work out a schedule that works for both of you. Being honest with your supervisor will also keep you out of tight spots like asking you to come in on days when you have other obligations.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"></span></span><br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Find some time for yourself</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Never forget to pencil in some time for yourself in your busy schedule. Even if time management isn't a problem for you, it can be easy to get so consumed by other things that you forget that you're young and should be having fun. Finding a little time to unwind will help you keep your sanity and make it easier to enjoy work and your internship.</span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></span></div><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Think of it as a challenge</span><br />
One of the best feelings for me is when I get through an especially hectic day and think back on everything that I managed to accomplish. No matter how exhausted I am, the feeling of productivity seems to make it all worth it. Challenge yourself by pushing to be productive even when you might feel like crashing because successfully balancing everything is a great skill and one you should be proud of.<br />
<br />
---<br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">If you have balanced a job and an internship how have you managed to do it? What are some other tips for managing both at the same time?</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span>Michelle Pencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11380343629358541303noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8948772108932266357.post-63558657756371297662011-01-20T19:05:00.000-08:002011-01-20T19:06:23.380-08:00Summer Internship Timeline<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ujMPhoDrl2g/TTjrd3I_JAI/AAAAAAAAAK8/57r11l-WhIQ/s1600/super+intern.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="315" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ujMPhoDrl2g/TTjrd3I_JAI/AAAAAAAAAK8/57r11l-WhIQ/s320/super+intern.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">http://bit.ly/hz6Koe</td></tr>
</tbody></table>It's getting tantalizingly close to the most wonderful time of the year... internship season!<br />
<br />
The best piece of advice I can give you about the hunt for the perfect summer internship is to start thinking about the process as early as possible.<br />
<br />
Many competitive internships at large or well-known companies will have early application deadlines. For example if interning at the White House is what you have in mind, your application is due January 23 (yikes!). Luckily, the deadline can usually be found on company websites so you'll have plenty of time to prepare. <br />
<br />
Other smaller companies may be more laid back in their due dates, but you'll want to make sure you get your materials in promptly for a competitive edge.<br />
<br />
The best part of my internship timeline is that it involves doing much of the work ahead of time. This way you save yourself a lot of stress and anxiety later on in the semester, when you are deeper into classes and homework while trying to manage the search for an internship at the same time.<br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Summer Internship Timeline</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">January</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<ul><li>Visit your school's Career Center and start scouring the many websites that feature internship listings like <a href="http://www.youtern.com/">YouTern</a> or <a href="http://internships.com/">Internships.com</a> for internships that interest you. </li>
<li>Don't forget that one of the best ways to find an internship is by utilizing your existing contacts, so talk to your professors or people you have worked with in the past to find out about new opportunities.</li>
<li>If you have your eye on a particular internship or are aiming to land a dream gig, make sure you do some research and mark down the application deadline now so you don't forget. Also, start looking into what exactly the company requires in order to apply well in advance.</li>
<li>If you have some spare time, run by the Career Center at your school and sign up for a mock interview session. Getting some practice time in now will help you feel confident enough to face any question you encounter in an interview later on.</li>
</ul><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Early-Mid February </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<ul><li>You will want to have several generic cover letters written targeted at each industry that you plan on applying for an internship in. For example, if you plan on applying at a magazine, but are also going to shoot for a broadcasting internship, you will want to differentiate between your cover letters. You will be able to personalize the letters more when you make your final selection of where to apply, but this gives you a head start.</li>
<li>By now your resume should be looking sharp with updated information on any recent internships or work you have done. Run it by someone at your school's Career Center to make sure your resume is in top-notch shape and ready to go.</li>
<li>If you don't already have several letters of recommendations on hand, start the process of acquiring them and set a deadline of the end of the month to have them by. A good strategy is to have at least three letters of recommendation from different sources: one academic, one professional, and one of your choice.</li>
<li>Make sure that you have all written materials both in digital form and on nice quality paper with plenty of copies in case you are asked to submit material in the mail.</li>
</ul><div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ujMPhoDrl2g/TTjrvVpqzdI/AAAAAAAAALA/liPcdyNdVk0/s1600/clock2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ujMPhoDrl2g/TTjrvVpqzdI/AAAAAAAAALA/liPcdyNdVk0/s400/clock2.jpg" width="231" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">http://bit.ly/i5OEkh</td></tr>
</tbody></table><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Late February</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div><ul><li>Finalize the list of internships you will apply for.</li>
<li>Aim to apply to a range of different companies. You will probably want to apply for at least five internships, however if you are looking at more competitive opportunities applying for more is usually better to be on the safe side.</li>
<li>Start digging around for contact information. The main goal is to send your materials to an actual person, not a generic company email, so if their website doesn't list specifics call and ask.</li>
</ul><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Early March</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><ul><li>Submit your materials to your final list of companies.</li>
<li>Track all of the companies that you actually apply to, since keeping good records will help keep you on top of things. Jot down information such as the contact information you sent your info to, when you sent it, and when you plan to follow up.</li>
</ul><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Late March</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div></div><div><br />
<ul><li>If you haven't heard from a company that you sent information to, now's the time to call and politely ask if they received your material.</li>
</ul><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">April</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div><ul><li>If you haven't had any luck with landing an internship just yet, keep your eye out for other opportunities. Many smaller local companies can offer great experience and sometimes don't hire their interns until closer to summer.</li>
</ul></div><div><br />
</div><div>The trick is simply to start early and to dedicate yourself to the search. Show the companies you want to intern for that you are driven and prepared by following these steps, and you will be well on your way to internship success.</div><div><br />
</div><div><br />
</div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Here are some other useful articles:</span></div><div><br />
</div><div><a href="http://www.thegoodintern.com/2011/01/internship-cover-letter-tips-tricks.html">Internship Cover Letter Tips & Tricks</a></div><div><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_60572112"><br />
</a></div><div><a href="http://www.thegoodintern.com/2010/08/how-to-score-killer-letter-of.html">How to Score a Killer Letter of Recommendation</a></div><div><br />
</div><div><a href="http://www.thegoodintern.com/2010/09/anatomy-of-good-thank-you-note.html">The Anatomy of a Good Thank You Note</a></div><div><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_60572108"><br />
</a></div><div><a href="http://www.thegoodintern.com/2010/08/your-guide-to-surviving-first-day-of.html">Guide to Surviving the First Day of an Internship</a></div><div><br />
</div></div>Michelle Pencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11380343629358541303noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8948772108932266357.post-37582429342135704892011-01-14T11:59:00.000-08:002011-01-14T11:59:02.235-08:00Internship Cover Letter Tips & Tricks<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ujMPhoDrl2g/TTCn_JeVJHI/AAAAAAAAAK0/3KLE51qBZDg/s1600/thinking.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ujMPhoDrl2g/TTCn_JeVJHI/AAAAAAAAAK0/3KLE51qBZDg/s320/thinking.jpg" width="273" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">http://bit.ly/eBo3Au</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div><br />
</div><br />
One of the first steps in applying for an internship is composing a captivating cover letter to send to the company that will make the reader stand up from their seat and declare that they simply MUST have you as an intern. <div><br />
</div><div>No pressure, right?<br />
<br />
While the scenario above has a pretty optimistic reaction, the point is that your cover letter will be one of the first things potential employers see that tells them why they should even consider you for an internship.</div><div><br />
</div><div>Here are some tips for writing a top-notch cover letter.<br />
<div><br />
</div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">"To whom it may concern" is not a person</span></div><div><br />
</div><div>Avoid sending a letter to "Whom it may concern" at all costs. Your goal is to find out who the right person is to send your cover letter to and their correct mailing information. If the company's website does not list a specific contact, search the web first and if you can't find anything that way, give the company a call and simply ask for more details. To avoid any simple but deadly mistakes, make sure to jot down the spelling of the person's name correctly, as well as the mailing address. </div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Put in the work and you shall be rewarded</span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>It is absolutely crucial to write a different cover letter for every internship you apply for. No if's, and's, or but's about it. It is glaringly obvious when cover letters are written for a generic purpose, as opposed to when they are tailored to fit the specific company. The letters you write can follow the same basic structure, but the content needs to be unique for each.</div><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Be clear and upfront</span><br />
<br />
You don't want to leave any doubt in the recipient's mind why you're writing the company a letter... for all they know you're trying to sell them something, which is definitely NOT what you want them to think. One of your very first lines should consist of explaining what position you are asking the company to consider you for and for what time period, along with a brief introduction of yourself (name, year in school, etc.). One of the biggest mistakes you can make here is not being specific enough. If you have a particular department or position in mind, make sure your letter says it loud and clear.</div><div><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Show what you know</span><div><br />
</div><div>Through your cover letter you want to convey the idea that you are very familiar with the company, which you should be if you're applying for an internship with them. You can usually get all of the information that you need from browsing the company's website. Towards the beginning of the letter you want to take time to explain why you're applying for an internship at this particular company. Did you randomly pick them out of the phone book? Are they the best in their field? In this section of your letter, you can mention recent awards the company has won, their outstanding reputation, etc.<br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">What skills do you bring to the table?</span><br />
<br />
<div>Your cover letter should effectively spell out why the company should hire you as an intern. Although your enclosed resume will contain specific details on your experience, your cover letter lets you spin that information the way you want in order to paint a picture of someone that will make a great intern and be a really good fit for the company. If you have past experience, talk about what skills or accomplishments you have that makes you qualified for the position. If the internship will be your first professional experience, talk about what you've learned in school or any extracurricular involvement you have that makes you qualified. If the company puts out information on the internship such as an overview or description of duties, make sure you incorporate how you will excel at those responsibilities.</div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
Make it physical</span></div><div><br />
</div><div>To me, nothing says "professional" like a well-crafted packet of information on yourself sent to a company, but it all depends on the situation. The look of a cover letter and resume printed on high-quality paper, enclosed with a writing sample and letters of recommendations, put together neatly and sent in the mail shows that you went above and beyond simply attaching a Word document to an email. </div><div><br />
</div><div>Many companies will explicitly state how they want to receive your materials, while others will be more vague. Always follow the directions that are given to you, however if you have a choice, take the route that shows the most effort. I like to do a combination of hard copy and digital. In the past, I have sent a mini cover letter through email, indicating that I had sent additional material in the mail.<br />
</div></div></div></div><div><br />
</div><div><br />
</div><div>Although your cover letter is definitely an important part of applying for an internship, don't let the pressure get to you. The letter itself should only be a few paragraphs long at best, and you're writing about yourself. No one knows you better than you do, so just write what you truly think.</div><div><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ujMPhoDrl2g/TTCozXDrmZI/AAAAAAAAAK4/HFKQwcxrBds/s1600/cv.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="211" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ujMPhoDrl2g/TTCozXDrmZI/AAAAAAAAAK4/HFKQwcxrBds/s320/cv.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">http://bit.ly/iiyNUp</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div><br />
</div><div><br />
</div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Here are some great resources for cover letter writing:</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div><a href="http://internships.about.com/od/coverlettertipssamples/a/coverletterguid.htm">About.com Internships- Internship Cover Letter Guide</a></div><div><br />
</div><div><a href="http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/3018140/5_common_internship_cover_letter_mistakes.html">Associated Content from Yahoo!- 5 Common Internship Cover Letter Mistakes</a></div><div><br />
</div><div><a href="http://career-advice.monster.com/resumes-cover-letters/cover-letter-samples/pitch-yourself-for-an-internship/article.aspx">Monster- Pitch Yourself for an Internship</a></div><div><br />
</div><div><a href="http://www.internships.com/student/resources/search/coverletter/howto">Internships.com- Writing a Compelling Cover Letter</a></div><div><br />
</div><div><br />
</div><div><br />
</div>Michelle Pencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11380343629358541303noreply@blogger.com38tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8948772108932266357.post-77641582851207725772011-01-06T19:39:00.000-08:002011-01-06T19:40:24.002-08:00New Year, New Internship Goals<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ujMPhoDrl2g/TSZ_bA0bvsI/AAAAAAAAAKw/CXfGR5JvSgw/s1600/clock.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="228" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ujMPhoDrl2g/TSZ_bA0bvsI/AAAAAAAAAKw/CXfGR5JvSgw/s320/clock.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">http://bit.ly/dUiFpa</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div><br />
</div><div>If you're anything like me, right about now your mind is swirling with ideas for how to improve yourself and your life in the upcoming new year. After New Years my to-do list is always brimming with resolutions- some of which are new and some that never seem to get done (about that diet...), but there's just something about a whole new year filled with endless possibilities that makes me especially excited and optimistic.<br />
<br />
<blockquote><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, 'Helvetica sans-serif'; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;">"We will open the book. Its pages are blank. We are going to put words on them ourselves. The book is called Opportunity and its first chapter is New Year's Day."<br />
Edith Lovejoy Pierce</span></blockquote></div><div><br />
</div><div>I've found that the most effective strategy for coming up with great goals is to be specific, so what could be better than dedicating a few of your New Years resolutions to making yourself a better intern?</div><div><br />
</div><div>Start by having a brainstorming session and write down everything that comes to mind when you think about yourself as an intern and what you'd like to change or do better... you can pick and choose the best ideas later. Once you have several things written down, select a few things that seem the most important. It's imperative that once you set your sights on something specific you want to accomplish, that you also come up with several steps for working towards the goal.</div><div><br />
</div><div><u>Here are some sample internship goals to get your wheels turning:</u></div><div><u><br />
</u></div><div><ul><li>Maintain a persistent positive attitude</li>
<ul><li>If you've been doing an internship for a while, it's easy to get dragged into the monotony of some tasks which might make you appear agitated and unhappy. Even if you think that you can't stand to file papers for another minute, slap a smile on your face and let people see that you're grateful to be there.</li>
</ul><li>Polish your resume</li>
<ul><li>If your resume is one of those things that you have been meaning to update and perfect, then jump on it this year. The trek to your campus career center usually isn't as far as it seems, so make an appointment. You'll be glad you did once you have a professional resume that you can be proud of.</li>
</ul><li>Take extra opportunities</li>
<ul><li>Ever turned down an opportunity to network with coworkers outside of the office because you were tired or had something else going on? One extra dinner with your boss and coworkers could mean the different between looking like you're just going through the motions 9am-5pm, and showing that you're really passionate about your internship.</li>
</ul><li>Network like a pro</li>
<ul><li>Finally get those business cards you've been meaning to have printed made and start working on the art of making small talk. For some people networking is an acquired skill, and the new year is the perfect opportunity to start practicing every chance you get.</li>
</ul><li>Take initiative</li>
<ul><li>Want to work on something bigger? Ask for it! While you can't neglect your everyday duties, it never hurts to ask for more. Show your boss that you want to get as much possible out of your internship and let him/her know you're up for the challenge.</li>
</ul><li>Connect with a mentor</li>
<ul><li>My mentor has proven to be one of the biggest assets in helping me professionally. If there is someone who you know and admire and that could help you with your career, reach out to them and ask if you can pick their brain. It may flatter them that you look up to them, and could turn into a positive and valuable relationship.</li>
</ul></ul></div><div>My advice? Take advantage of 2011 being a blank slate and actually work towards your resolutions this year! This year could be your best year yet, but it's all up to you.</div><div><br />
</div>Michelle Pencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11380343629358541303noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8948772108932266357.post-48284376919568772312010-12-16T17:02:00.000-08:002010-12-16T17:04:27.171-08:00The Office Holiday Party... Leave Your Ugly Christmas Sweater At Home<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ujMPhoDrl2g/TQUTz4iwh-I/AAAAAAAAAKo/V2NXA-7YueE/s1600/office+xmas.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ujMPhoDrl2g/TQUTz4iwh-I/AAAAAAAAAKo/V2NXA-7YueE/s320/office+xmas.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Whether small or grandiose, the office holiday party is something the intern should never miss out on, and not for the reasons you might expect. <br />
<br />
Even if you are an intern that just finished a semester internship with a company, the holiday party is something you should definitely still attend, as long as you were invited of course (crashers are never cool). <br />
<br />
Word on the street may be that the office holiday party is a blast, but resist the temptation to throw on your reindeer antlers and light-up Christmas sweater and take some of my advice. You can find tons of office party horror stories all over the web about Bob from accounting who had a few too many and ending up passing out on the buffet table, just like you can find countless tips about how you should avoid greasy foods and not drink alcohol, but honestly... the secret to making the most of the office holiday party is to just <b>BE YOURSELF AND HAVE FUN.</b><br />
<br />
Office parties are excellent opportunities for interns to socialize with people from work outside of the office setting and to display a whole new set of skills... social skills! Although the party is still technically a professional event, you have the freedom to let the conversations flow to topics that interest you and to get to know co-workers on a more personal basis. An excellent trait to possess is being comfortable in social situations and appearing confident and personable, so use the holiday party as an excuse to show off your ability to socialize professionally. The end goal of socializing at the party should be to leave with stronger relationships with co-workers than when you arrived, but make sure you're still having fun and enjoying yourself in the process. Once you're at the party, approach someone you have always wanted to get to know a little bit better and strike up a conversation. Later on, do the same thing with someone you maybe haven't quite hit it off with yet in the office, but want to try to form a relationship with.<br />
<br />
<u>Here are some tips for office party schmoozing:</u><br />
<br />
<ul><li>Avoid trying too hard to make a good impression on people... especially your boss. Let the casual setting mellow you out and encourage you to act naturally, but professionally.</li>
<li>Don't monopolize one person's time and exit conversations on a high note. Letting a conversation awkwardly fizzle out might totally reverse the social progress you made with someone, so after a few minutes of chatting excuse yourself politely and move on.</li>
<li>Stay away from any topics that have the potential to offend someone or lead to a heavy conversation, such as politics, religion, or dirty jokes. People want to celebrate with positive people, not <a href="http://images3.makefive.com/images/entertainment/television/best-snl-sketches-ever/debbie-downer-7.jpg">Debbie Downers</a> or argumentative types. </li>
<li>Definitely approach your boss, even though you may feel a bit hesitant. This is the main person you want to show your confidence and charisma to, but keep this conversation the shortest unless your boss gives you cues to continue. The head honcho is usually a hot commodity at the party and doesn't have a lot of time to spend with just one person.</li>
<li>If you don't know someone, introduce yourself! Now is your chance to get your name out there and get to know people you never had the chance to meet before. Network like there's no tomorrow!</li>
<li>Remember your good intern etiquette and thank the host, or whoever planned the party, for inviting you and for doing such a great job organizing the event. A nice thank you note afterwards never hurts either.</li>
<li>Never complain about the company or gossip, even if the person you're talking to is going on and on about something negative. I usually just nod my head and smile until the person gets the point that I'm not going to say anything back and changes the topic.</li>
<li>Be yourself! Don't stress out trying to make yourself look great while you're mingling with people. Although you might be able to sneak in some personal accomplishments or goals here or there, let them come to the surface on their own and just focus on having a good conversation. </li>
</ul><div style="text-align: left;"></div><span style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 12px;"><br />
</span></span></span><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1340982359"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://www.esquire.com/cm/esquire/images/hickey-freeman-shirt-tie-lg-84472391.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.esquire.com/style/merchandise/mens-holiday-attire-1209">Dress Shirt & A Killer Suit</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div>I have full faith that any aspiring good intern will know the basics of professional behavior that is still expected at the office holiday party. </div><div><br />
</div><div>It's my policy that if you are over 21 and other people are drinking alcohol at the party it's completely acceptable to have a cocktail, just drink in moderation and know your limits. Even if everyone else starts to get a little out of control, hold back and keep in mind that you want to protect your reputation... and your job as an intern. You don't need alcohol to have fun, right? </div><div><br />
</div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1340982333"><img height="200" src="http://www.forever21.com/images/model_front/84165415-02.jpg" width="164" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.forever21.com/product.asp?catalog_name=FOREVER21&category_name=dress_special_workparty&product_id=2084165415&Page=all&promoType=2">Forever21 Polished Cocktail Dress </a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div>Also, don't forget to keep the party attire professional, even though the dress code may be more festive and casual than the average work day. Although the men's outfit pictured to the left is outrageously expensive for an intern, you get the idea, plus the caption on the website explained it perfectly by saying, "Always dress like the man in charge- especially when you're not". Ladies need to really make sure that their ensembles are not too revealing (you don't want <i>that </i>kind of attention), but it's completely okay to play around with bright colors and different jewelry.</div><div><b><br />
</b></div><div><b>The best advice I can give you is to be yourself, have fun, and leave the reindeer antlers at home!</b></div><div><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red; font-size: large;">HAPPY HOLIDAYS </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red; font-size: large;">FROM THE GOOD INTERN</span></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Michelle Pencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11380343629358541303noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8948772108932266357.post-57440478297766108322010-11-24T07:25:00.000-08:002010-11-24T07:33:51.590-08:00Confessions of a foursquare Addict<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ujMPhoDrl2g/TO0rHkho0DI/AAAAAAAAAKk/0W_6Jj_u39M/s1600/foursquare.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ujMPhoDrl2g/TO0rHkho0DI/AAAAAAAAAKk/0W_6Jj_u39M/s200/foursquare.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br />
<br />
When foursquare first started getting popular I remember thinking, "What is the world coming to?!" I just couldn't understand why people would want to constantly pinpoint their location on a map for everyone to see. To each their own, but I just didn't get it.<br />
<br />
For those of you who aren't familiar, foursquare is an application that lets you "check in" to places you visit via your phone. You just download the application and it uses your phone's GPS to find exactly where you're at, business name and all. foursquare then automatically publishes the places you visit to Twitter or Facebook, depending on your settings. According to foursquare's <a href="http://foursquare.com/">website</a>, the application is meant to be a city guide and friend-finder as well as a game since it rewards users for visiting new places.<br />
<br />
As time went by I decided what the heck, and created an account. Although it irked me when my Facebook homepage was bombarded with people checking in to every single place they went (home, the grocery store, etc.), I started to see a possible professional use for the application.<br />
<br />
For my current internship I get to travel a little bit and sometimes visit some interesting places, so I decided that foursquare would be an easy way to let people know what I'm up to professionally. I also started to use foursquare for social purposes too, but with a little discretion. When I was in Washington D.C. the other week I checked in to the different places we visited so people could see what I was up to. You'll never see me check in at the gas station or Walmart, but I do like to publicize any neat places I get to visit.<br />
<br />
I guess the moral of the story is to make social media work for you. Instead of thinking of foursquare as a strictly social application, try to look at it's professional possibilities. As long as you set it up so that only your friends can see the places you check in to and you follow my advice on discretion, there really is no drawback. <br />
<br />
I bet that the next time you end up somewhere pretty cool for an event or business opportunity you get the urge to foursquare... it's pretty addicting.<br />
<br />
<b>Do you use foursquare? If so, what type of places do you check in to and do you agree with my train of thought?</b><br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
<b><br />
</b>Michelle Pencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11380343629358541303noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8948772108932266357.post-73019281605219085572010-11-16T08:37:00.000-08:002010-11-16T08:57:10.397-08:00Where In the World Is The Good Intern?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ujMPhoDrl2g/TOIZd-9iNUI/AAAAAAAAAKY/uB2z12b0TA0/s1600/101_0027+%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ujMPhoDrl2g/TOIZd-9iNUI/AAAAAAAAAKY/uB2z12b0TA0/s320/101_0027+%25282%2529.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>Washington D.C. for Phi Alpha Delta Pre-Law Fraternity's National Conference, that's where! <br />
<br />
Taking a much needed break from the stress of applying to law school I was able to take a few days off from classes and my internship to jet set to D.C. for half a week with Missouri State University's P.A.D Pre-Law chapter.<br />
<br />
Between frantically trying to figure out the metro and playing super tourist by taking pictures of anything that looked remotely historical or important, I actually learned some things that didn't only relate to law school.<br />
<br />
On our itinerary I had noticed that one of the presentations we would be attending was about student leadership and was called "One Year to Make It Happen". The speaker, Pete Mockaitis, had led nine different student organizations while he was in school and seeing a connection with the eight internships under my belt I immediately thought, "I need to meet this guy!" <br />
<br />
It turned out that he was young and hilarious and did a really great job of connecting with the audience during his presentation. The focus was all about the right way to set goals and how to make the most out of your one year in a leadership position for an organization. He even agreed to sit down with me later on and tell me a little bit more about his background and how he got to where he is today (Hint: An internship helped him get a job at an elite consulting firm out of college).<br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ujMPhoDrl2g/TOIai26iGBI/AAAAAAAAAKc/IGyw9Ol4sEg/s1600/Pete.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="288" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ujMPhoDrl2g/TOIai26iGBI/AAAAAAAAAKc/IGyw9Ol4sEg/s320/Pete.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
I would strongly recommend checking out his <a href="http://www.petemockaitis.com/">website</a> and looking at the different presentations he offers through <a href="http://www.campuspeak.com/speakers/mockaitis">CAMPUSPEAK</a> if you are ever in need of a great speaker on student leadership.<br />
<br />
<u>On a side note, here are some recommendations for great food places to visit if you ever</u><u> find yourself in DC:</u><br />
<b>-Aqua Al 2</b>- An awesome little Italian restaurant on Capitol Hill that has really authentic ltalian food and has a location in Florence, Italy.<br />
-<b>Old Ebbitt Grill</b>- This old historic bar and grill is known for the politicians and VIPs who frequent it to talk politics.<br />
-<b>Eastern Market</b>- Also located on Capitol Hill, this funky market is filled with fresh meat, produce, and the best thing... a bakery! Try the jumbo black and white cookies.<br />
-<b>Ben's Chili Bowl- </b>It's a total dive, but this chili place is a favorite of the Obama family and Bill Cosby and has a really cool atmosphere.<br />
<br />
<b>I'm still toying with the idea of interning in D.C. this coming summer so if there are any Capitol Hill interns out there I'd love to hear all about your experiences and any recommendations you have!</b>Michelle Pencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11380343629358541303noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8948772108932266357.post-73053997809771954582010-11-15T06:59:00.000-08:002010-11-15T06:59:57.231-08:00Link Roundup 11/15/2010<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ujMPhoDrl2g/TJPvkmq-xOI/AAAAAAAAAJw/fFP9oQxfqlk/s1600/goodinternlogo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ujMPhoDrl2g/TJPvkmq-xOI/AAAAAAAAAJw/fFP9oQxfqlk/s1600/goodinternlogo.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Looking for that dream internship? Here are 10 awesome internships that you can apply for right now.- <a href="http://hercampus.com/career/10-summer-internships-you-can-apply-right-now-and-deadlines-are-coming">Her Campus</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://hercampus.com/career/10-summer-internships-you-can-apply-right-now-and-deadlines-are-coming"></a>Who doesn't love a good to-do list? How to maximize your intern efficiency.- <a href="http://theinternview.com/internviews/intern-life-lessons-maximize-your-intern-efficiency/">The Intern View</a><br />
<br />
In job interviews, what you don't say can be just as important as what you do say.- <a href="http://classroomtocubicle.com/throughout-your-career/communication/nonverbal-behaviors-during-job-interviews/?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter">From College to Cubicle</a><br />
<br />
Have you been to your campus Career Center? If not, check it out pronto!- <a href="http://hercampus.com/career/how-find-job-or-internship-through-your-campus-career-center">Her Campus</a><br />
<br />
Interning after graduation is getting more common these days. Here are 5 qualities to look for in a post-grad internship.- <a href="http://theinternview.com/internviews/intern-life-after-college-5-qualities-of-the-right-internship/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed:+TheInternView+(TheInternView)&utm_content=Twitter">The Intern View</a><br />
<br />
For anybody with more activities than they can fit on a two-page resume, here are some tips for what activities hurt more than they help.- <a href="http://hercampus.com/career/r%C3%A9sum%C3%A9-misconceptions-which-activities-hurt-more-help">Her Campus</a>Michelle Pencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11380343629358541303noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8948772108932266357.post-62400989824100167482010-11-05T07:27:00.000-07:002010-11-15T06:56:25.414-08:00It's Never Too Early... How to Prepare for Summer Internships in the Fall<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ujMPhoDrl2g/TNQUFkpYT6I/AAAAAAAAAKU/21snyMjc4w4/s1600/clock.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="216" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ujMPhoDrl2g/TNQUFkpYT6I/AAAAAAAAAKU/21snyMjc4w4/s320/clock.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">http://bit.ly/bNg3Ja</td></tr>
</tbody></table>As the weather turns cold, students across the country are either nicely settled into their fall internships or trying to make it through the last few weeks of school before the holiday season begins. One of the last things on many people's minds may be thinking about a summer internship. While it may only be November there are tons of things you could be doing right now to put you ahead of the game come internship season in the Spring.<br />
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<b>Make a list</b><br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
Now is a great time to start thinking about where exactly you would like to intern for the summer. My suggestion is to create a spreadsheet in Excel or a similar program and record information such as the company name, contact person, phone number, email, deadline for applications, etc. This will greatly help you stay on track and prevent deadlines from slipping your mind. Be sure to include a range of companies, from your dream internships to more realistic options. You can put as many companies as you want on your initial list and narrow it down later once you've had a chance to decide what you're really looking for. Applying for at least ten internships is a good goal to ensure that you have several options available to you.<br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
<b>So you want to intern for The Washington Post, eh?</b><br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
If you have dreams of interning for a large company, believe it or not, the time to start applying is now. Many companies have November deadlines for applications, or dates close to that. These internships tend to be highly competitive so pay close attention to deadlines and other requirements.<br />
<br />
<b>Get everything in order</b><br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
Having an up-to-date resume will be vital when it comes time for interviews and submitting applications in the Spring. If your resume is not already up-to-date, add the new information and see if your school's Career Center offers to review students' resumes- often times they do. Having a second pair of eyes proof-read your resume is always a good idea and the professionals at many Career Centers do a great job of making sure students' resumes are appropriate for the type of internship they will be applying for. <br />
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The fall is also a great time for compiling several letters of recommendations. Aim to have three letters of recommendations on hand for interviews and applications.<br />
<i>Check out my article on <a href="http://thegoodintern.blogspot.com/2010/08/how-to-score-killer-letter-of.html">how to score a killer letter of recommendation</a></i><br />
Professors whose class you did really well in and seemed to connect with usually make great references as well as professional contacts you have from past jobs or internships.<br />
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<b>Start researching</b><br />
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</b><br />
If you have a company in mind that you would really like to intern for or a company you want to find out more about, doing some research now is a smart move to get to know the business. Besides exploring the company website in-depth, connect with them on any social media sites they are a part of, including Facebook and Twitter. What the company tweets is usually a good indicator of what's going on more recently and what their general attitude is. You will be able to use this information during applications and interviews to show that you have a good idea of what the company is like and why you would be a good fit.<br />
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<b>CALLING ALL FORMER INTERNS- Based on your previous experience, what would you recommend potential interns start doing now to prepare for summer internships?</b>Michelle Pencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11380343629358541303noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8948772108932266357.post-56459275651800670182010-10-18T11:31:00.000-07:002010-11-05T07:55:14.501-07:00Internship Survival 101<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ujMPhoDrl2g/TLyRPOnIGkI/AAAAAAAAAKQ/rF9O7hTMv7g/s1600/survival.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ujMPhoDrl2g/TLyRPOnIGkI/AAAAAAAAAKQ/rF9O7hTMv7g/s320/survival.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="304" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">http://on.natgeo.com/1EYtGq</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Starting a new internship can be scary on it's own, but starting a new internship and receiving hardly any guidance is a nightmare! Believe it or not, I've been faced with the dilemma of having to teach myself the ropes a couple of times. Whether certain employers feel that their interns are self-sufficient enough to figure things out on their own, or just don't have the time to lay out the welcome mat, the fact is that as an intern you need to possess certain survival skills just in case you end up having to fend for yourself.<br />
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<b>Pay attention</b><br />
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A good habit in any situation is to get a feel for the office environment as soon as possible. With a little observation you should be able to tell how employees communicate with each other, what the relationship is like between employees and the boss, how casual the setting is, etc. Being attentive should help you fit right in. If you're tucked away in a cubicle where it's a little more difficult to view the interactions, use your initial conversations with the staff to make some strategic observations, or simply ask what you should expect.<br />
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<b>Realize when you're being tested</b><br />
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More than once I have had an employer who seemed to like to "test" new interns, trying to determine how much they can handle. If you are given a pile of paper the size of Mt. Everest to file or are delegated some other impossible task before you've even warmed your new seat, don't freak out. Realize that it might be a test to see how you react in a stressful situation. Overcome the situation by staying calm and working through it. Becoming stressed or anxious will just cloud your mind and impair your judgment. If you're still being given unmanageable things to do about a month after you start, then you are allowed to freak out.<br />
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<b>Ask questions to the right people</b><br />
<b> </b> <br />
Asking questions to clarify a task you've been given is never a bad thing. It's better to be safe and ask rather than to be sorry if you mess something up. At every internship I've had, I was able to find at least one person who ended up being my go-to person for questions. This person was always glad to help and understood that it's tough being new to a company and expected to do a lot of different things right off the bat. Granted, I always found this person through an interesting process of trial-and-error. Try asking several questions to numerous people in the office, and it will become obvious who gets disgruntled or doesn't seem to want to be bothered. Think through your questions before you ask them to make sure that you're not wasting someone else's time on something you could have figured out on your own.<br />
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<b>Become friends with the old intern... STAT!</b><br />
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The person who will be able to give you the most invaluable advice in the whole company will be... you guessed it- the old intern/interns. Not only do they know exactly what you will be dealing with, but they will most likely be happy to fill you in on the details. If you aren't given the opportunity to transition with them, ask someone for their contact information and shoot them a quick call or email to introduce yourself. Get their permission to contact them is something comes up you think they might be able to help with, and then utilize them.<br />
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<b>Please share if you have had an internship where you had to figure things out for yourself. How did you manage? Did you still enjoy your internship?</b>Michelle Pencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11380343629358541303noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8948772108932266357.post-37009785611673714152010-10-15T07:18:00.000-07:002010-11-05T07:54:39.613-07:00Link Roundup 10/15/2010<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ujMPhoDrl2g/TJPvkmq-xOI/AAAAAAAAAJw/fFP9oQxfqlk/s1600/goodinternlogo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ujMPhoDrl2g/TJPvkmq-xOI/AAAAAAAAAJw/fFP9oQxfqlk/s320/goodinternlogo.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<br />
Read about LinkedIn's newest feature, <a href="http://blog.linkedin.com/2010/10/04/linkedin-career-explorer/">Career Explorer,</a> a program that lets you explore different career paths and find people that can help you get there. - LinkedIn<br />
<br />
The Intern View emphasizes how important a <a href="http://theinternview.com/intern2incharge/intern-life-110-your-weaknesses-as-a-weapon-and-a-smile-that-kills/">positive attitude</a> is while interning. - The Intern View<br />
<br />
Find out 5 ways to <a href="http://hotjobs.yahoo.com/career-articles-5_ways_to_recharge_without_taking_a_vacation-1383">recharge without taking a vacation</a>. - Monster.com<br />
<br />
While mooching of your parents in college can be convenient, I <em>guess</em> <a href="http://www.ehow.com/blog/3-ways-how-to-be-financially-independent-in-college-and-not-mooch-off-your-parents.html">learning how to be financially independent</a> is a good idea too. - eHow<br />
<br />
Here are <a href="http://collegecandy.com/2010/10/14/why-vote-5-good-reasons-to-hit-the-polls/">5 solid reasons why college students should hit the polls</a>. If you aren't familiar with the issues, College Candy spells it out for you with their handy <a href="http://collegecandy.com/2010/09/29/rock-the-midterm-vote-understanding-the-issues/">Midterm Election Guide</a>. Go vote! - College Candy<br />
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Have a little hope. <a href="http://theinternview.com/internviews/intern-life-humor-why-you-might-still-get-hired-in-spite-of-everything-going-horribly-wrong/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+TheInternView+%28TheInternView%29&utm_content=Twitter">Why you might still get hired, in spite of everything going horribly wrong.</a> - The Intern View<br />
<br />
Totally unrelated to internships, but a feel-good article nonetheless... <a href="http://collegecandy.com/2010/10/10/jm-ten-things-youre-never-too-old-to-do/">10 things you're never too old to do.</a> - College CandyMichelle Pencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11380343629358541303noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8948772108932266357.post-29486377237734183312010-10-08T13:12:00.000-07:002010-10-08T13:12:16.606-07:00Her Campus: How to Write a Thank You Note For Every Situation<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">Check out my latest article for Her Campus below or at the <a href="http://hercampus.com/career/how-write-thank-you-note-every-situation?page=2">Her Campus site</a> to view the comments!</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Vera Serif', serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;"></span><br />
<div id="content-header" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><h1 class="title" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; clear: both; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, Tahoma, 'Bitstream Vera Sans', sans-serif; font-size: 2em; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: 1.3em; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><br />
</h1><h1 class="title" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; clear: both; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, Tahoma, 'Bitstream Vera Sans', sans-serif; font-size: 2em; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: 1.3em; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Vera Serif', serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;"></span>How to Write a Thank You Note For Every Situation</h1></div><div id="content-area" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><div class="node node-type-story" id="node-5672" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><div class="node-inner" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Thursday, October 7, 2010<div class="submitted" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">By <span class="authors" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><a href="http://hercampus.com/michelle-pence" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #ff0066; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Michelle Pence</a></span></div><div class="content" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">After an interview for a potential job or internship, what is the first thing you should do? If you answered go home and throw off your heels and pencil skirt, you are wrong. But if you said go pick out your finest stationery and start working on a thank you note, you are absolutely correct! While most college girls realize that sending a thank you note after an interview is obligatory, many girls don’t know what to write and do not think about all of the <em style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: italic; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">other</em> situations that call for thank you notes as well.</div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><img alt="" src="http://hercampus.com/sites/default/files/envelope_0.jpg" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-style: initial; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; float: right; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; height: 638px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-left: 20px; padding-right: 20px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; width: 480px;" /></div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">A fabulous thank you note will help portray you as someone who is truly gracious and appreciative of a person’s time, which will speak volumes about your character. This positive persona will help you stand out from the crowd, while not sending a thank you note will lump you in with all the other people who could not be bothered to write one. A stellar thank you note could even end up being a deal breaker, opening doors for new opportunities if the timing is right. Ashli, who was recently featured in a <a href="http://hercampus.com/career/they-had-best-summer-ever-three-coolest-internships" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #ff0066; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank">Her Campus article</a> on college girls with the most awesome internships, wrote the VP of Merchandising for Oscar de la Renta a heartfelt thank you note after a meeting and got a shoutout on Twitter saying how much a good thank you note means.</div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">With the help of <a href="http://www.contemporaryetiquette.net/Contemporary_Etiquette/Home.html" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #ff0066; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank">Marci Raver</a>, founder of the Contemporary Etiquette Institute, a social and business etiquette consulting firm, Her Campus will help take the guesswork out of figuring out what to write and explain how to compose a great thank you note worth remembering.</div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><u>There are four basic parts to a thank you note:</u></div><ol style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; list-style-type: decimal; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 2em; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><li style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">The greeting</li>
<li style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Say thank you (once) and mention what you are thanking them for</li>
<li style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Say something about the meaningfulness of the act</li>
<li style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Sign off (e.g., “Best,” “Sincerely”)</li>
</ol><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Writing quality thank you notes and getting them out quickly are both equally important parts of the process. To be sure you are able to get the note out promptly, have quality note cards and stamps on hand, and remember to get the person’s business card so you know their title and where to send the note to. Raver suggests that when searching for the perfect paper or note cards to use, look for blank cards that do not have “thank you” printed on them, and look for quality paper with beautiful lined envelopes. Online companies such as<a href="http://www.paper-source.com/" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #ff0066; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank">Paper Source</a> have great options as well as other retail stores like Papyrus. Aim to get your thank you note in the mail the following day and definitely within the week. Also, do not forget to include your contact information to make follow-up easy.</div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">While sending a thank you note via e-mail sounds like a quicker and easier alternative to the traditional handwritten thank you note, think twice before sending one of these. Although e-mails are faster, they lack the sincerity of a traditional handwritten thank you, which is more memorable and will help you stand out in today’s competitive work environment by leaving a lasting impression. One additional option is to send both an e-mail <em style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: italic; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">and</em> handwritten thank you note, especially if you believe time is sensitive.</div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><img alt="" src="http://hercampus.com/sites/default/files/signing.jpg" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-style: initial; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; float: right; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; height: 306px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-left: 20px; padding-right: 20px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; width: 480px;" /></div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">When deciding on how long to make your thank you note, shoot for at least one solid paragraph. You do not want the note to be so short that it seems insincere, but you do not want to write a novel and bore the reader to death either. If you feel you have something important to say, by all means write it in the note, but be mindful of how long the reader will have to spend reading your note before moving on to another.</div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Here are some examples of thank you notes for every situation the typical college girl may encounter that all call for a thank you note. Use them as guides when you need to write one, but be sure to put your own personal twist on them to make it genuine and unique.</div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><u>Sample Thank You Notes</u></div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><img alt="" src="http://hercampus.com/sites/default/files/thank-you-note_0.jpg" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-style: initial; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; float: right; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; height: 318px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-left: 20px; padding-right: 20px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; width: 480px;" /></div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><strong style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: bold; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Thank you for an internship interview</strong></div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Dear John Doe,</div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Thank you for taking the time to interview me for the position of Marketing Intern at XYZ Company. The internship, as you described, seems to be a great fit for my skills and interests. I am especially interested in the opportunity you mentioned to help develop social media campaigns, as I have had success with this at several of my past internships. I should add that I have experience in public relations and marketing from several student organizations I have been a part of on campus, reaching out to over 20,000 students. I appreciate the opportunity to interview for the position and look forward to hearing from you soon.</div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Sincerely,</div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Your Name</div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><u>Why this works</u></div><ul style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; list-style-type: disc; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 2em; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><li style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Be specific about why you want the internship and why you would be a great fit</li>
<li style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Provide a brief recap of your strengths that are relevant to the position</li>
<li style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">If you forgot to mention anything during the interview, mention it in the thank you note, but do not explicitly say you forgot</li>
</ul><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><strong style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: bold; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Thank you for lunch (to a superior who gave great career advice)</strong></div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Dear John Doe,</div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"></div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Thank you for taking the time to join me for lunch the other day and giving me such great career advice. It means a lot to have someone in your position provide me with guidance as I prepare to start my own career. I plan to seriously consider your advice about how to handle my first year of law school and will also keep in mind your encouragement to study abroad at some point. I will be sure to keep you updated on the developments in my life after graduation.</div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Sincerely,</div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Your Name</div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><u>Why this works</u></div><ul style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; list-style-type: disc; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 2em; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><li style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Make sure you thank them for their time, especially if they went out of their way to meet with you</li>
<li style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Touch on some key points they mentioned to show you were listening</li>
<li style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Offer to stay in touch and follow through to maintain a positive relationship</li>
</ul><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><strong style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: bold; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Thank you to intern supervisor at end of internship</strong></div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Dear John Doe,</div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Thank you for the incredible opportunity to intern at XYZ Company for the fall semester. I could not have asked for a better internship experience and it was made possible by your help and guidance. From the experience, I am walking away with many new skills and experiences that will be invaluable as I prepare to start my own career. I am especially grateful for having had the opportunity to sharpen my communication skills by working with customers firsthand and working in such a positive team environment. If I can ever be of further assistance to the company, please do not hesitate to contact me.</div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Sincerely,</div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Your Name</div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><u>Why this works</u></div><ul style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; list-style-type: disc; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 2em; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><li style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Let them know how you benefited from the experience and how it will help you in the future</li>
<li style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Mention specifically what you loved about the internship to make them feel productive</li>
<li style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Offer to help out since this shows your commitment to the company and may initiate future opportunities</li>
</ul><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><strong style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: bold; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Thank you for a letter of recommendation</strong></div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Dear John Doe,</div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Thank you for taking the time to write me such a glowing letter of recommendation. I realize that composing a good letter of recommendation is time consuming, so I appreciate the effort you took to craft a letter that was meaningful. I hope that your knowledge of my academic performance from taking several of your classes was helpful, and I will be sure to keep you updated on whether or not I receive the opportunity.</div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Sincerely,</div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Your Name</div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><u>Why this works</u></div><ul style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; list-style-type: disc; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 2em; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><li style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">If you were able to see the actual letter of recommendation let them know how great it was</li>
<li style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Acknowledge how much time can go into writing a good letter of recommendation and how you are thankful</li>
<li style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Promise to follow up on the opportunity since the letter of recommendation was an important part of the process</li>
</ul><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><strong style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: bold; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Sources</strong><br />
<a href="http://www.contemporaryetiquette.net/Contemporary_Etiquette/Home.html" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #ff0066; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank">Marci Raver</a>, founder of the Contemporary Etiquette Institute</div></div></div></div></div>Michelle Pencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11380343629358541303noreply@blogger.com24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8948772108932266357.post-91624214463653292512010-09-29T14:02:00.000-07:002010-11-05T07:54:04.223-07:00Let's Talk About STRESS, baby!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ujMPhoDrl2g/TKOdVzQ-r_I/AAAAAAAAAKA/jV7bichVkxw/s1600/desk.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ujMPhoDrl2g/TKOdd5AavaI/AAAAAAAAAKE/Mjd6pk906QE/s320/pen.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="213" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo Credit http://bit.ly/cgYYiP</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Being stressed to the max can be one of the unfortunate side effects of balancing an internship with school and all of the other responsibilities college kids tend to rack up. With a full plate, sometimes the stress can feel unbearable. Believe me, I've been there! Feeling anxious all of the time, getting sick often, suffering from constant headaches, and unusual weight loss can all be signs that you are experiencing too much stress. If you experience any of those symptoms your body is trying to tell you that you're taking on too much!<br />
<br />
Believe it or not, there are some more effective ways for managing your stress than pulling out your hair or banging your head on the wall. The main idea is to stay calm and not let your responsibilities consume you. YOU control your life and have the ability to enjoy it as long as you manage the stress effectively.<br />
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<u><b>Here are some tips for handling stress in college:</b></u><br />
<br />
<b>Learn to say "no"</b><br />
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Although it pains me to admit it, one person is not capable of doing it all. As much as we sometimes like to try, there are things you simply <i>have </i>to say no to for the sake of your own sanity. Whether it's an unachievable deadline or a favor for one of your student organizations, add the word "NO" to your vocabulary and stat. As long as you are polite about turning something down, you shouldn't add to your stress by worrying about hurting people's feelings. Hopefully, the people you are dealing with are mature adults and will understand your time constraints. If they don't, reconsider your commitment to them in the first place.<br />
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<b>Make your to-do list your best friend</b><br />
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Not only should you keep an ongoing list of everything that you need to accomplish, but you should <u>prioritize </u>that list. Put important tasks that need to be done sooner at the top and tasks that aren't quite as pressing towards the bottom. This should prevent that overwhelming feeling of looking at your to-do list and not quite knowing where to start because there is so much. It will also keep you from jumping up in the middle of the night because you remembered one more thing that you have to get done. I manage my to-do list on a free program called <a href="http://www.evernote.com/">Evernote</a>, which hosts all of my lists online and lets me access and edit them from my phone, computer, or anywhere that has Internet. A service like this is great because it prevents any confusion that could come from not having your list on hand. <br />
<br />
<b>Eat and sleep (seriously)</b><br />
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If you need a reminder to eat and sleep you have more serious problems than I can help you with<b>; </b>yet so many busy college kids don't get the amount of sleep they need each night or the right nutrition from their meals. Although I am a Ramen connoisseur and have a penchant for certain junk foods, I always make sure I'm getting some protein and greens each day as well. You don't have to be a health nut, but realize that what you eat is what fuels you for the day and all of your activities. Always eat a good breakfast, whether you have time for a bowl of Cap'n Crunch or eggs and toast, you <i>have</i> to eat something. Also, go to bed! You are going to be exhausted and even more stressed if you aren't getting close to 8 hours of sleep each night. If you're a night owl do your best to avoid early morning classes and vice versa. Sleeping is not optional although sometimes it can feel like it. Whether you need to find time for a power nap during the day or set yourself a bedtime, do what it takes to find time for this necessity.<br />
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<b>Go outside</b><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ujMPhoDrl2g/TKOliuMpXkI/AAAAAAAAAKI/H2zn1WA7S2M/s1600/book.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ujMPhoDrl2g/TKOliuMpXkI/AAAAAAAAAKI/H2zn1WA7S2M/s320/book.jpg" width="320" /></a>It sounds trivial, but getting some quality time in the sun can really help reduce stress levels. Being outside boosts Vitamin D levels which is vital to good health and causes the release of endorphins, which are the body's natural anti-depressants; just make sure you wear sunscreen (<a href="http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/1507090/new_facts_prove_granny_was_right_about.html">Associated Content</a>). All throughout college I have opted to walk to class instead of drive, at least part of the way. If you are a commuter don't waste your time fighting for the closest parking spot on campus in the morning. Instead, opt for the spot that is a bit farther and walk the rest of the way to class. Not only will you get some extra rays and a little exercise that will help wake you up and prepare you for the day, but walking can help clear your mind and give you a chance to plug into your iPod if that's what helps you relax.<br />
<br />
<b>Schedule some "me" time</b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: right;"></div>No matter how much you have going on you absolutely must schedule time for yourself, even if this means actually blocking out a period of time in your planner (I literally have Glee and Law and Order: SVU marked on my calendar every week). For some people, closing the door and watching a movie or an hour of TV in peace and quiet is what helps recharge their batteries, while for others going out and socializing or playing sports is what keeps them refreshed. A brain that is always working is eventually going to get exhausted and will start being unproductive, so give it a rest every once in a while.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
<b>If all else fails make some cuts </b><br />
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If you get to the point where there is nothing else you can do to alleviate some of the stress, it's time to reevaluate your commitments. Are there student organizations that you aren't really dedicated to? Do you have to be on three different intramural sports teams? Make a list of everything that takes up your time and take a good hard look at it to separate the important things from the other stuff that might be draining your time and energy.<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Here are some helpful quizzes from Ask.com that can help you determine how stressed you are.</b><br />
<div style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</div><div style="color: black; font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://stress.about.com/od/selfknowledgeselftests/a/overscheduled.htm"><span class="fn">Balance Quiz: Are You Overscheduled?</span></a></span></div><div style="color: black; font-family: inherit;"><br />
</div><div style="color: black; font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="fn"><a href="http://stress.about.com/library/anxiety/bl_anxiety_test.htm">Anxiety Self Test: Do You Worry Too Much? </a></span></span></div><h1 style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b></b></span><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://stress.about.com/library/reliever_personality_test/bl_stress_reliever_personality_test.htm">The Stress Reliever Personality Test</a></span></h1>Michelle Pencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11380343629358541303noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8948772108932266357.post-12231298413620214922010-09-27T19:31:00.000-07:002010-11-05T07:52:46.847-07:00Her Campus: The Do's and Don'ts of LinkedIn Etiquette<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Vera Serif', serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;"></span><br />
<div id="content-header" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><h1 class="title" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; clear: both; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, Tahoma, 'Bitstream Vera Sans', sans-serif; font-size: 2em; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: 1.3em; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">The Do's and Don'ts of LinkedIn Etiquette</h1></div><div id="content-area" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><div class="node node-type-story" id="node-4944" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><div class="node-inner" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Friday, September 24, 2010<br />
<div class="submitted" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">By <span class="authors" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><a href="http://hercampus.com/michelle-pence" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #ff0066; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Michelle Pence</a></span></div><div class="content" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">For any career-minded college student or recent grad, having a profile on LinkedIn is basically expected in order to stay ahead of the game and network with peers, companies, and other professionals. As a member of this 65 million person network, not only do you get to shamelessly market yourself for the entire world to see, but you are able to stay on the radar of recruiters for potential job opportunities, something no unemployed recent grad can afford to pass up.</div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">There is no question that LinkedIn is a great tool for promoting yourself and garnering invaluable professional contacts, but the same reason LinkedIn is so great is what makes it so scary to use. Unlike Facebook, with its more carefree and social atmosphere, on LinkedIn you are potentially connecting with your employer, your professors, and other contacts you typically would not want perusing your Facebook profile and having access to your personal information.</div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">While it is pretty easy to figure out the basics of LinkedIn, the specifics of how exactly you should utilize LinkedIn’s functions and figuring out what is appropriate and what is not can be tricky.</div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><a href="http://windmillnetworking.com/#axzz0qqXjfgQd" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #ff0066; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank">Neal Schaffer</a>, author of <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Windmill-Networking-Understanding-Step-Step/dp/1439247056/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1276534238&sr=8-1" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #ff0066; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank"><em style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: italic; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Windmill Networking: Understanding, Leveraging & Maximizing LinkedIn</em></a><em style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: italic; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">, </em>is pretty much Her Campus’s go-to guy when it comes to learning about LinkedIn, having <a href="http://hercampus.com/career/link-dream-gig-everything-you-need-know-about-how-use-linkedin" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #ff0066; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank">sat down with Her Campus contributing writer Betty Jin</a> earlier this year to discuss almost everything there is to know about the site. In this article, Neal shares what exactly is acceptable on LinkedIn when inviting people to connect, asking for recommendations, and posting status updates. With his advice, next time you get that queasy feeling in your stomach when you go to connect with your boss on LinkedIn, you can breathe a little easier knowing that you are acting just as any professional should.</div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><strong style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: bold; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Inviting people to connect</strong></div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><img alt="" src="http://hercampus.com/sites/default/files/network_3.jpg" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-style: initial; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; float: right; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; height: 360px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-left: 20px; padding-right: 20px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; width: 480px;" /></div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Inviting people to join your network is one of the most basic functions of LinkedIn and embodies the whole purpose of the site. This simple task of reaching out to people may seem harmless enough, but becomes complicated when you come across someone such as one of your professors or the editor-in-chief of the magazine you interned for, and you are not quite sure whether or not to take the plunge and actually hit “connect”.</div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">LinkedIn was designed to encourage people to connect with others they have actually met and know somewhat well. Friends, classmates, professors, and contacts from jobs and internships are all great people to use to expand your network. It becomes tricky when you want to connect with someone you may have met a job fair who told you to keep in touch or the head honcho of the company you interned for who you only met a couple times and doubt remembers you. Luckily, LinkedIn is evolving and it has become acceptable to connect with these types of people as well as people you might not know at all under some conditions; it just takes a little more work on your part.</div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Deciding how to go about connecting with a person on LinkedIn can be one of the most challenging parts of using the site. If you know the person well, the options that LinkedIn gives you when you go to add them to your network such as “Friend”, “Colleague”, “Classmate”, etc. should be easy enough to figure out. On the other hand, if you are trying to reach out to someone you do not know quite as well and who does not necessarily fit into those categories, you need to go the extra mile and pull a few tricks.</div><ul style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; list-style-type: disc; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 2em; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><li style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Look at the person’s profile and see what groups they are members of on LinkedIn</li>
<li style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Become a member of one of their groups ONLY if it is relevant to you</li>
<li style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">When you go to connect with the person again, an option will come up that you can select to explain that you are members of the same group</li>
<li style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">OR you can use the group to send a message to the person explaining why you would like to connect</li>
</ul><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">When inviting a person to join your network, you are always given the option to add a personal note to the request. Not including a personal message is a pet peeve of many LinkedIn users and could hurt your chance of gaining the connection; it also helps the person to remember you and gives you a chance to explain why you want to connect with them.</div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">“Regardless as to how well you know the person that you invite, they may not remember you as well,” advises Neal. “Therefore, as a rule of thumb, you should always customize your invitations so that you indicate how you know the person and why you want to connect with them.”</div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Your note can be something short such as, “My name is Michelle and I interned for your company last summer. I really enjoyed working for the marketing department and would love to use LinkedIn to stay in touch with some of the people I met while interning there and build up my network on LinkedIn.” The most important thing to remember is to use common sense when reaching out to different people on LinkedIn, and to plan out your actions before you have the chance to make any mistakes.</div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><strong style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: bold; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Asking for recommendations</strong></div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"></span></b></div><b></b><br />
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<div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">Recommendations on LinkedIn are virtual versions of letters of recommendation you would normally ask for from someone on paper, although these types are much shorter. If you are a serious user of LinkedIn, meaning you do not just have a profile because everyone else does, but because you honestly want to network and create a professional image for yourself, then recommendations are a necessary part of being a member of LinkedIn. Recommendations are also a must if you want to use LinkedIn to find future jobs and internships. They give you more credibility and add a sense of completeness to your profile which is appealing to those looking at your profile.</span></b></div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">You only want to ask for recommendations from people who know you well and can vouch for your skills and abilities, not someone you hardly know. Internship or work supervisors are great people to ask for recommendations, as well as professors whose classes you did exceedingly well in. The best time to ask for a recommendation is shortly after you worked with the person or took their class, although asking for recommendations later is also fine as long as you provide a refresher on who you are and why they would want to recommend you.</span></b></div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">Be sure to provide a thorough explanation for why you are seeking a recommendation, whether you are looking for a job or internship, trying to improve your profile, or whatever your reasons may be. Just as you would do when asking for a typical letter of recommendation, you should remind the person what you accomplished while working for them or what skills you displayed that were noteworthy.</span></b></div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">“You're not writing your recommendation for them, but merely serving to remind them about what you did for them so that they can paint a complete picture of you from memory,” said Neal.</span></b></div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">If you ask someone for an actual letter of recommendation, discreetly ask if they might be willing to use an excerpt of it to recommend you on LinkedIn as well. The worst they can do is say no. Since we are talking about etiquette, one of the most important parts of asking for a recommendation on LinkedIn is to thank the person for taking the time to write one for you. Taking the time to do so will leave the door open for future opportunities, which can never hurt.</span></b></div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><b><strong style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: bold; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Posting updates</strong></b></div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><b><img alt="" src="http://hercampus.com/sites/default/files/updates.jpg" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-style: initial; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; float: right; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; height: 297px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-left: 20px; padding-right: 20px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; width: 480px;" /></b></div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">While tweeting what you are doing every five minutes is the new trend, I hate to break it to you, but your professional contacts probably do not care. Just like Facebook and Twitter, on LinkedIn you have the opportunity to post updates through the “Status Update” box on your profile, but beware, updates on LinkedIn should be treated significantly different than posting on other networking sites.</span></b></div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">“The LinkedIn Status Update, while seemingly innocent, will post your update to your network in the News Feed on their Home Page,” warned Neal. “Since the majority of LinkedIn users used it </span><em style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: italic; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">before</span></em><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"> Facebook or Twitter, the current environment is one in which status updates no more than once a day are tolerated.”</span></b></div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">Whatever you do, DO NOT link your Twitter account with your LinkedIn profile in a way that automatically posts every tweet to LinkedIn, especially if you tweet often. Status updates on LinkedIn should consist of positive information about your life that helps promote you professionally, such as updates about professional events you attended or projects you are working on for school, while blurbs about your tailgating plans for the weekend and how you loved the new episode of “ The Jersey Shore” are not.</span></b></div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">With these clarifications, you are now ready to fearlessly brave the seas of LinkedIn and use it to your utmost benefit!</span></b></div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><b><span style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">Sources</span></span></b><br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">Neal Schaffer, author of </span><em style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: italic; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">Windmill Networking: Understanding, Leveraging & Maximizing LinkedIn</span></em></b><br />
<b><em style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: italic; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><br />
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<b>To read the full post on Her Campus with comments click <a href="http://great%20real-life%20example%20of%20the%20oppression%20story%21%20it%20appears%20that%20in%20this%20case%20mediation%20is%20being%20used%20to%20benefit%20the%20stronger%20party%20and%20allowing%20manipulative%20and%20coercive%20actions%20like%20the%20text%20describes.%20%20i%20read%20the%20article%20and%20it%20seems%20fishy%20that%20the%20marital%20property%20agreement%20was%20altered%20after%20it%20was%20signed%20by%20both%20parties.%20%20with%20powerful%20people%20such%20as%20the%20mccourt%27s%20it%20seems%20plausible%20that%20many%20mediators%20may%20be%20biased%20towards%20one%20party%20or%20the%20other%2C%20especially%20if%20there%20is%20some%20sort%20of%20outside%20pressure%20to%20direct%20the%20outcome%20one%20way.%20%20one%20other%20thing%20i%20thought%20about%20was%20that%20since%20mediation/">here</a>!</b></div></div></div></div></div>Michelle Pencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11380343629358541303noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8948772108932266357.post-75416023893794726592010-09-19T21:50:00.000-07:002010-11-05T07:52:08.805-07:00To Intern or Not to Intern: Advice for Fall InternsRecently, on The Good Intern there was a poll on the homepage where students voted on whether or not they would be participating in a fall internship. The poll asked <i>"Are you participating in a fall internship this year?"</i> and the options were <i>A) "Yes, definitely. I'll intern during any season"</i>, <i>B) "No, fall is time to focus on school"</i>, or <i>C) "I want to, but I haven't found one yet."</i> When the poll first launched, option A and B were both extremely close to being the winner, but by the time the poll closed option B won with 42% of the votes. The majority of the people who voted would not be participating in a fall internship because they want to focus on school.<br />
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The results of the poll left me thinking about what exactly is involved in a fall internship. It's true that an internship in the fall can be more difficult than summer opportunities because of the need to balance the responsibilities of being an intern with classes, extracurricular activities, homework, and maybe even a job, but fall internships also present an entirely different set of benefits than summer internships. To list some of the perks, for upperclassmen it may be one of the last opportunities to intern for someone who might be a potential employer, you are able to network and gain experience in a different community than maybe you would at home during the summer, plus as a fall intern you might be asked to intern for the entire school year.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ujMPhoDrl2g/TJblP74vaTI/AAAAAAAAAJ4/xaphbeAHGy4/s1600/131416.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="245" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ujMPhoDrl2g/TJblP74vaTI/AAAAAAAAAJ4/xaphbeAHGy4/s400/131416.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo Credit http://bit.ly/bHJLiC</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Since I am obviously a major advocate for fall internships, here are some tips to help fall interns succeed during the fall semester which might even persuade those on the fence to reconsider whether or not to seek out a fall internship.<br />
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<b>Be clear about your schedule</b><br />
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Many supervisors will be flexible with your schedule as long as you are upfront about your time commitments. The time involved in a fall internship is something that should be established during the interview so you have a realistic idea of if you will be able to do the internship without your other obligations suffering. Before you start your internship, sit down with your supervisor and work out a schedule that works for both of you. Draw out an estimated weekly schedule beforehand that accounts for work, classes, time for homework, meetings, and any other commitments, so you have a clear idea of when you are available. Also, offer to do some work remotely at home or on evenings/weekends if the company will allow it. E-mail makes it extremely easy to stay in touch with your supervisor if you are working from another location.<br />
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<b>Run a tight ship</b><br />
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In order to succeed as a fall intern your need to be <i>extremely </i>organized. I recommend keeping two separate planners; one strictly for school assignments, and one for your internship and other time commitments. When your schedule is packed, things have a tendency to fall through the cracks and can lead to major dilemmas, so keep your life organized to avoid any slip-ups. If you aren't used to using a planner it can be hard to remember to pencil things in at first, but after a while it will become automatic and make your life much easier.<br />
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<b>Learn to multi-task</b><br />
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As a fall intern you will have to wear many hats such as student, intern, sorority/fraternity member, employee, etc. and need to be prepared to play numerous roles in one day. For this reason, I recommend keeping lists of tasks you need to accomplish for each different category, listed by importance, that you can easily access at any time. I like to keep multiple lists on my Blackberry since it's pretty much with me at all times. That way, no matter where I'm at I can recall what I need to do without having to rely on memory alone.<br />
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<b>Take time to breathe</b><br />
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It's so easy to get caught up in the stress that interning and going to school at the same time can bring. To avoid losing your mind schedule time for yourself, whether it's spending time with friends or settling down to watch a movie alone, make sure you are still doing the things you enjoy and that allow you to lighten up a little. College is supposed to be fun, remember?<br />
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<b>Here's what some of The Good Intern's Twitter followers had to say:</b><br />
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<div class="tweet-row" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #444444; display: block; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, 'Liberation Sans', FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 15px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; position: relative;"><span class="tweet-user-name" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><a class="tweet-screen-name user-profile-link" data-user-id="18783859" href="http://twitter.com/#!/hannah1721" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #0099cc; cursor: pointer; font-weight: bold; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none;" title="Hannah ">hannah1721</a> <span class="tweet-full-name" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #999999; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Hannah </span></span><br />
<div class="tweet-corner" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline-block; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 10px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; line-height: 19px;">(<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, 'Liberation Sans', FreeSans, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 15px;">Visit her blog <a href="http://mademoisellehannah.wordpress.com/">here</a>)</span></span></span><br />
<div class="tweet-meta" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #999999; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 19px;">@<a class="twitter-atreply" data-screen-name="TheGoodIntern" href="http://twitter.com/TheGoodIntern" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #0099cc; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">TheGoodIntern</a> Yes, internships are important, but make sure you still have time for school work. Be honest with yourself. </span></div></div></div><div class="tweet-row" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #444444; display: block; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, 'Liberation Sans', FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 15px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; position: relative;"><div class="tweet-text" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: Arial, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; line-height: 19px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;"><br />
</div><div class="tweet-text" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: Arial, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; line-height: 19px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;"><br />
</div></div>Michelle Pencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11380343629358541303noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8948772108932266357.post-66219153345956563382010-09-17T15:53:00.000-07:002010-11-05T07:51:17.111-07:00Link Roundup 9/17/2010<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ujMPhoDrl2g/TJPvkmq-xOI/AAAAAAAAAJw/fFP9oQxfqlk/s1600/goodinternlogo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ujMPhoDrl2g/TJPvkmq-xOI/AAAAAAAAAJw/fFP9oQxfqlk/s320/goodinternlogo.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<a href="http://hercampus.com/career/little-ways-make-money-campus-when-youre-strapped-cash">Little ways to make money</a> on campus. - Her Campus<br />
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Check out some of these <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2010/09/17/college-scholarships_n_718039.html">wacky scholarships</a> and see if you are eligible. If not, it'll still give you a good laugh. - The Huffington Post <br />
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Jones New York has a great digital <a href="http://www.jny.com/Empowerment/CAREER-ADVICE,default,pg.html">"Little Black Book"</a> on their website full of career advice from 100+ influential women. - Jones New York <br />
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Can you guess the <a href="http://blogs.wsj.com/wealth/2010/09/07/the-perfect-salary-for-happiness-75000-a-year/?mod=e2tw">perfect salary for happiness</a>? - The Wall Street Journal<br />
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What some businesses claim <a href="http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748703882304575466100773788806.html">recent college grads lack</a>. - The Wall Street JournalMichelle Pencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11380343629358541303noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8948772108932266357.post-35390924581502249882010-09-13T07:40:00.000-07:002010-11-05T07:50:18.664-07:00Ask The Good Intern: Resume Layout Tips<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ujMPhoDrl2g/TI43UlPQxyI/AAAAAAAAAJo/xyxMUzAnRZg/s1600/resume+shirt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ujMPhoDrl2g/TI43UlPQxyI/AAAAAAAAAJo/xyxMUzAnRZg/s320/resume+shirt.jpg" width="304" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo Credit http://bit.ly/3L6A</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="entry-content"> <u><br />
</u></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><u><span class="entry-content"></span><b><span class="status-body"><span class="status-content"><b><a class="tweet-url screen-name" href="http://twitter.com/apesoli">apesoli</a></b> <span class="lock-icon" title="Amy pesoli’s tweets are protected."></span> <span class="actions"></span><span class="entry-content">@<a class="tweet-url username" href="http://twitter.com/TheGoodIntern" rel="nofollow">TheGoodIntern</a> Any suggestions for resume layouts?</span> </span></span></b></u></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="entry-content">Of course! Having a resume that's up-to-date and ready to go is so important for young professionals, because you never know when an opportunity might arise where you need to give someone a copy of your resume pronto. Not only is the information included on your resume important, but the look and feel of it can say a lot about you as well. As you've probably heard, potential employers only spent a few seconds looking over a resume, so make sure the design of your resume is great in order to capture their attention for a bit longer.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="entry-content"><b>Layout</b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="entry-content">When working on my own personal resume, I like to look for a template that I like and then change the order of things around and mess with the formatting to make it more suitable for my needs. If you're going to use Microsoft Office, <a href="http://office.microsoft.com/en-us/career-center-for-job-seekers-powered-by-monster-com-FX010350405.aspx">this website</a> is a good place to start. Just a warning that it might take a few tries to find something that you really like or are able to easily change (some templates make it hard to re-format). Look for a layout that is well-organized and easy to read instead of too cluttered or distractingly colorful.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="entry-content"> <b>Formatting</b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="entry-content">One sure-fire way to NOT get your resume read is to use all 12-point Times New Roman font with no special formatting to break up the text... boring! Instead, stick to one font, but use bullet points under each job or internship to list what you accomplished. I also sometimes use bullet points under my student organizations to explain how I was involved or under community service to detail what I did. Just make sure to keep each bullet to one line of text, and use semi-colons to include two topics on one bullet point to avoid lines that are too short and taking up space. This keeps things stream-lined, but adds a little extra to keep it visually appealing.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="entry-content"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span class="entry-content">Font</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="entry-content">Mix in bold and italic font to draw the readers eye where you want it to go. For example, on my resume I have in bold my major and minor, my GPA, my job titles, and the headings of each section. I also have the name of my school and the businesses that I worked at in all caps. The result is that my resume looks clean and professional, but still has different elements that keep it interesting.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="entry-content"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span class="entry-content">Length</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="entry-content"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="entry-content">One of the things I have the most trouble with is keeping my resume to a manageable length. The general rule is to keep your resume to two pages at most, and preferably one, the reason being that recruiters want to be able to scan the resume quickly, get what they need, and move on. Remember that your resume is not supposed to be a comprehensive history of your professional and academic experiences, just a highlight of what parts of your background make you a good fit for the job. Sometimes it helps me to have one resume saved that includes every job, internship, community service project, etc. that I've worked on, and then pick and choose information from that resume to paste into a new one specific to whatever opportunity I'm needing a resume for.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="entry-content"><b>Keep reading for advice on the content of your resume coming soon!</b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="entry-content"><b>If you would like to ask The Good Intern a question regarding anything dealing with internships, either send a tweet to <a href="http://twitter.com/TheGoodIntern">@TheGoodIntern</a> or fill out the form on the <a href="http://thegoodintern.blogspot.com/p/contact.html">Contact page</a> of this site, and you will receive a response either on the blog or by email.</b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="entry-content"><br />
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</span></div>Michelle Pencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11380343629358541303noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8948772108932266357.post-36488283514947987582010-09-10T16:41:00.000-07:002010-11-05T07:49:53.931-07:00Her Campus: They Had the Best Summer Ever<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">Just to give you a quick life update, in my spare time (spare time, what's that?) I've teamed up with </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 13px;"><a href="http://www.hercampus.com/"><span style="color: blue;">Her Campus</span></a>, an online student magazine for college women, as a contributing writer for their career articles. Her Campus is written entirely by student journalists from all over the U.S. and focuses on giving college girls all of the info they need to know about, well... life in general.</span><br />
<div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><br />
</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">Below is my first article for the site which is currently #1 on Her Campus' "What's Hot Right Now" list. I hope you like it!</span></span><br />
<div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Vera Serif', serif; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: normal;"><br />
</span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Vera Serif', serif; line-height: 19px;"></span></span></span><br />
<div id="content-header" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Vera Serif', serif; line-height: 19px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, Tahoma, 'Bitstream Vera Sans', sans-serif; font-size: 26px; line-height: 33px;"><a href="http://hercampus.com/career/they-had-best-summer-ever-three-coolest-internships">They Had the Best Summer Ever: The Three Coolest Internships</a></span></span></span></span></div></div><div id="content-area" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><div class="node node-type-story" id="node-4226" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><div class="node-inner" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Vera Serif', serif; line-height: 19px;">Friday, September 10, 2010</span></span></span><br />
<div class="submitted" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Vera Serif', serif; line-height: 19px;">By <span class="authors" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><a href="http://hercampus.com/michelle-pence" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #ff0066; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Michelle Pence</a></span></span></span></span></div><div class="content" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Vera Serif', serif; line-height: 19px;">You know those girls who come back to school in the fall raving about their amazing summer experiences? The ones who spent their summers traveling the world or doing internships you never actually thought were achievable, while you spent the entire break sprawled out by the pool, working on your tan with cocktail in hand?</span></span></span></div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Vera Serif', serif; line-height: 19px;">Three of these girls whom you should be totally jealous of are Michelle, Ashli, and Amelia. They spent <em style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: italic; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">their</em> summers helping children in third-world countries, surrounded by the glitz and glamour of NYC, and mingling with major politicians in Washington, D.C.</span></span></span></div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Vera Serif', serif; line-height: 19px;">While you may have a great tan, these girls truly had the best summer ever, and with just a little advice, you can too! </span></span></span></div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Vera Serif', serif; line-height: 19px;"><strong style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: bold; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">The Humanitarian- Michelle Corkrum</strong></span></span></span></div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Vera Serif', serif; line-height: 19px;"><img alt="" src="http://hercampus.com/sites/default/files/Corkum.jpg" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-style: initial; border-style: initial; border-style: initial; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; float: right; font-family: inherit; font-size: 12px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; height: 254px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; width: 255px;" />Michelle Corkrum, a 19-year-old neuroscience major at Wellesley College, realized her passion for helping young children in war-torn countries when she was only a junior in high school. With accomplishments under her belt such as founding her own non-profit organization, For the Children, which aids women and children in Liberia, and facilitating projects such as donation drives for clothes and books to send to children in a medical center near Baghdad, Iraq, it was no wonder that when summer rolled around, Michelle was ready to participate in a humanitarian trip overseas.</span></span></span></div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Vera Serif', serif; line-height: 19px;">With the help of For the Children and her mom, Michelle found an opportunity with the Caring for Tomorrow’s Generation orphanage in Buchanan, Liberia. While there, she worked with children ranging from infants to 15-year-olds, all of whom had either become orphaned, abandoned or destitute because of the consequences of the Liberian civil war.</span></span></span></div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Vera Serif', serif; line-height: 19px;">“I love working with children and providing them with a sense of hope and comfort,” said Michelle. “All the children I worked with were strong and beautiful individuals that had gone through so much, and despite everything they came out survivors.”</span></span></span></div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Vera Serif', serif; line-height: 19px;">During her stay, Michelle facilitated the 6<sup style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">th</sup> grade math and science classes, leading the lectures and helping plan the academic review sessions each week.</span></span></span></div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Vera Serif', serif; line-height: 19px;">“Overall, the best reward I received was walking away each day knowing that each child looked forward to seeing me the next day, just as much as I desired to see them the next day,” said Michelle. “Because of the constant love the children receive everyday they believe that their future will be better than their past.”</span></span></span></div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Vera Serif', serif; line-height: 19px;"><u>Tips for finding humanitarian work overseas:</u></span></span></span></div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Vera Serif', serif; line-height: 19px;"><strong style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: bold; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Team up with an organization: </strong></span></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Vera Serif', serif; line-height: 19px;">There are a wide variety of non-profit organizations that coordinate philanthropic efforts and will be able to take care of a lot of the specific details for you. Search for ones by utilizing your school resources and local community or search the web for organizations that share your interests. Check out websites such as <a href="http://idealist.org/" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #ff0066; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank">idealist.org</a>, <a href="http://unv.org/" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #ff0066; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank">unv.org</a>, or <a href="http://habitat.org/gv" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #ff0066; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank">habitat.org/gv</a> for starters.</span></span></span></div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Vera Serif', serif; line-height: 19px;"><strong style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: bold; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Gather support: </strong></span></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Vera Serif', serif; line-height: 19px;">Let your family and friends know what type of volunteer work you’re interested in and why. Often times, you will be responsible for paying the travel costs to get to wherever the opportunity is, which can be oceans away. Having both the financial and emotional support of loved ones will be highly beneficial.</span></span></span></div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Vera Serif', serif; line-height: 19px;"><strong style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: bold; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Be prepared: </strong></span></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Vera Serif', serif; line-height: 19px;">You must be willing to be open-minded and accept certain challenges, especially in third-world countries. You might witness certain things that are hard to swallow, such as children suffering and a general lack of resources, so be sure you understand the history and the culture of the country beforehand. Also, be mentally ready to potentially rough it without internet access or a straightening iron, as many places who need volunteers the most might not be able to sustain these luxuries.</span></span></span></div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Vera Serif', serif; line-height: 19px;"><strong style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: bold; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">The Fashionista- Ashli Pollard</strong></span></span></span></div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Vera Serif', serif; line-height: 19px;"><img alt="" src="http://hercampus.com/sites/default/files/pollard.jpg" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-style: initial; border-style: initial; border-style: initial; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; float: right; font-family: inherit; font-size: 12px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; height: 505px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; width: 252px;" />For anyone with a penchant for designer fashion and a closet full of ridiculously stylish clothes like Ashli Pollard, a 22-year-old Fashion Merchandising major at Missouri State University, a summer internship in New York City is the epitome of a dream internship.</span></span></span></div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Vera Serif', serif; line-height: 19px;">After working on photo shoots for numerous magazines and serving as designer coordinator for several fashion shows around her hometown, Ashli was ready to take the plunge and start searching for a summer internship in NYC.</span></span></span></div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"></div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Vera Serif', serif; line-height: 19px;">Her big break came from an ad posted on Craigslist, of all places. “Gotta love the new age!” joked Ashli. As soon as she sealed the deal for an internship with Ideal Fastener, the second largest zipper manufacturer in the world which provides zippers to virtually every major apparel brand in the USA and Europe (including <em style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: italic; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">all </em>of the major designers in NYC), Ashli packed her things and headed to the Big Apple.</span></span></span></div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Vera Serif', serif; line-height: 19px;">Once there, Ashli quickly learned she wouldn’t just be making copies and running errands. She spent her time working with global account managers and creating presentations for sales meetings with well-known companies such as Betsey Johnson, DKNY, Gap, and Tommy Hilfiger, all the while networking with top executives.</span></span></span></div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Vera Serif', serif; line-height: 19px;">“I got to put in my opinion and sometimes they took my advice, which was exciting,” said Ashli.</span></span></span></div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Vera Serif', serif; line-height: 19px;">The highlight of her summer internship in NYC was meeting the VP of Merchandising for Oscar de la Renta, who opened the door for Ashli to possibly work with the company’s PR department on this year’s Spring Fashion Week.</span></span></span></div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Vera Serif', serif; line-height: 19px;">“Your attitude is just as important as the work you do,” said Ashli about interning. “I made a million mistakes, I messed up every day. But I smiled, I was gracious and thankful, I apologized and now look! They offered me a full-time job upon graduating!”</span></span></span></div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Vera Serif', serif; line-height: 19px;"><u>Tips for landing a fashion internship:</u></span></span></span></div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Vera Serif', serif; line-height: 19px;"><strong style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: bold; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Use your connections:</strong></span></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Vera Serif', serif; line-height: 19px;">If you’re involved with the fashion department at your school or have had other jobs or experience in fashion, ask some of the people you’ve met if they know of available positions or have contacts that you can utilize.</span></span></span></div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Vera Serif', serif; line-height: 19px;"><strong style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: bold; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Network! Network! Network!:</strong></span></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Vera Serif', serif; line-height: 19px;">Tell as many people you can about your fashion ambitions and doors you never knew existed may open. Don’t be afraid to casually tell people you meet about your goals for the future and what you specifically love about fashion.</span></span></span></div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Vera Serif', serif; line-height: 19px;"><strong style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: bold; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Aim high, shoot low:</strong></span></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Vera Serif', serif; line-height: 19px;">It’s okay to be ambitious and apply for internships with distinguished companies such as Vogue or Chanel, but also apply for internships at smaller companies which, in the end, are less competitive and might end up giving you more hands-on experience.</span></span></span></div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Vera Serif', serif; line-height: 19px;"><strong style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: bold; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">The Aspiring Politico- Amelia McDermott</strong></span></span></span></div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Vera Serif', serif; line-height: 19px;"><img alt="" src="http://hercampus.com/sites/default/files/Amelia.jpg" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-style: initial; border-style: initial; border-style: initial; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; float: right; font-family: inherit; font-size: 12px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; height: 434px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; width: 162px;" />Internships in Washington, D.C. are competitive, educational, and essentially a “must” for anyone seeking to get a firsthand look at our country’s political system like Amelia McDermott, a 20-year-old International Relations major at Wellesley College.</span></span></span></div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Vera Serif', serif; line-height: 19px;">Having heard about the summer internships on the Hill from other students at her school, Amelia applied for internships with all of the U.S. Senators and Congressmen from her area, and was lucky enough to have been accepted to all of them.</span></span></span></div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Vera Serif', serif; line-height: 19px;">She ended up choosing to spend the summer interning for Senator Olympia Snowe of Maine, answering the phones and giving tours of the Capitol to visitors from her home state.</span></span></span></div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Vera Serif', serif; line-height: 19px;">“I loved connecting constituents to the Senator and helping make their voices known,” said Amelia. “It really gave me insight into our political system and the legislative branch in particular.”</span></span></span></div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Vera Serif', serif; line-height: 19px;">While most people are limited to seeing political superstars such as Hillary Clinton and John McCain on the Internet or news channels, Amelia had face-time with both during her internship, along with other staples in the political world.</span></span></span></div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Vera Serif', serif; line-height: 19px;">“I personally worship the ground that Hillary Clinton walks on, so when she was on Capitol Hill for a hearing, a few other girls from school and I held up a "Wellesley" sign and she came over and gave us a hug,” said Amelia (Wellesley is Clinton’s alma mater).</span></span></span></div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Vera Serif', serif; line-height: 19px;">“I was at a reception for the Pat Tillman Foundation where John McCain was the guest speaker, and later on I saw him by himself looking at a painting on the wall,” said Amelia. “I jokingly told him that I liked Sarah Palin’s shoes. He laughed so hard and whenever I saw him in the hallway in the office building after that, he would chuckle and wave at me.”</span></span></span></div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Vera Serif', serif; line-height: 19px;"><u>Tips for landing a legislative internship:</u></span></span></span></div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Vera Serif', serif; line-height: 19px;"><strong style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: bold; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Sell yourself:</strong></span></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Vera Serif', serif; line-height: 19px;">Make sure you have an impressive resume and cover letter. You definitely want to stand out from the crowd of mostly impressive applications legislative offices receive. Be sure to stress your awesome communication skills, time management skills, and ability to learn quickly and be flexible, as these are qualities that will definitely come in handy.</span></span></span></div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Vera Serif', serif; line-height: 19px;"><strong style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: bold; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Follow-up:</strong></span></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Vera Serif', serif; line-height: 19px;">Due to the large amount of applications most legislative offices receive, follow-up a week after you submit your materials, just to make sure they actually received them.</span></span></span></div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Vera Serif', serif; line-height: 19px;"><strong style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: bold; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Don’t be afraid to do grunt-work:</strong></span></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Vera Serif', serif; line-height: 19px;">In the beginning, expect to do mostly menial tasks such as filing, but if you show the staff how capable you are, they might give you more responsibility like sending you to take notes at hearings.</span></span></span></div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Vera Serif', serif; line-height: 19px;"><strong style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: bold; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Sources:</strong></span></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Vera Serif', serif; line-height: 19px;">Michelle Corkrum</span></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Vera Serif', serif; line-height: 19px;">Ashli Pollard</span></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Vera Serif', serif; line-height: 19px;">Amelia McDermott</span></span></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Vera Serif', serif; line-height: 19px;"><br />
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<div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Vera Serif', serif; line-height: 19px;"><br />
</span></span></span></div><div class="item-list" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><ul class="pager" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; clear: both; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; list-style-type: disc; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Vera Serif', serif; line-height: 19px;"><b> </b>
<li class="pager-last last" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; list-style-type: none; list-style: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0.5em; padding-left: 0.5em; padding-right: 0.5em; padding-top: 0.5em; vertical-align: baseline;"></li>
</span></span></span></ul></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Michelle Pencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11380343629358541303noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8948772108932266357.post-14038826238599057632010-09-05T12:30:00.000-07:002010-11-05T07:49:02.600-07:00Link Roundup 9/5/2010<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ujMPhoDrl2g/TIPwsSEYSxI/AAAAAAAAAJY/9Da_217Ozlg/s1600/goodinternlogo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ujMPhoDrl2g/TIPwsSEYSxI/AAAAAAAAAJY/9Da_217Ozlg/s320/goodinternlogo.jpg" /></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">Dear employers, please read this article carefully... <a href="http://www.talentculture.com/culture/interns-are-people-too/">Interns Are People Too!</a> Sincerely, Your Interns</span></span><br />
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</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">Philosophy and Star Trek is seriously a class offered at Georgetown??? Her Campus lists some of the <a href="http://hercampus.com/dormlife/craziest-college-classes-2010-edition">craziest college classes</a> of 2010.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><br />
</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">The Savvy Intern compares a<a href="http://thesavvyintern.com/2010/08/28/job-interview-or-first-date/"> job interview</a> to a first date. Love the humor!</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><br />
</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">No more filling in the bubbles? The New York Times reports on the <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2010/09/03/education/03testing.html?_r=2&ref=education">possible demise of standardized tests</a> in public education.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><br />
</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/charlie-alderman/a-rappers-guide-to-colleg_b_705233.html">If rappers were colleges</a> which ones would they be? A question <i>everyone</i> wants the answer too.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><br />
</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">Her Campus has some great <a href="http://hercampus.com/dormlife/study-smarts-10-tips-and-tools-getting-back-school-mode">study tips</a> for getting back into the school mode.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><br />
</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">Your cover letter is the first thing potential employers see, so make it good with these <a href="http://communikaytrix.com/2010/08/30/create-a-killer-cover-letter-please/">cover letter tips </a>from someone responsible for hiring interns.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><br />
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</span></div>Michelle Pencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11380343629358541303noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8948772108932266357.post-40013114547434670492010-09-04T16:14:00.000-07:002010-11-05T07:48:32.873-07:00The Anatomy of a Good Thank You NoteThank you notes are an important yet often forgotten part of being an intern/wanna-be intern, and knowing how to properly compose one is an essential skill for any young professional. Being proactive and sending a thank you note after the right situation and at the right time will say a lot about your character and might even seal the deal for a job opportunity or a new professional contact. Once you get into the habit of sending thank you notes, the process will become effortless and you'll start realizing even more situations in your life where taking a few minutes to write one makes you look generous and considerate (which is always a good thing).<br />
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There are tons of times that call for thank you notes to be written outside of sending the obligatory thank you note after an interview. Here are a few of these situations:<br />
<br />
<ul><li>After completing an internship</li>
<li>When someone writes a letter of recommendation on your behalf</li>
<li>After someone helps you with a project</li>
<li>Upon meeting with someone new</li>
</ul><div><b>Give it some personality</b></div><div><br />
</div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ujMPhoDrl2g/TILHRtL-66I/AAAAAAAAAIg/herkMrwSthk/s1600/brown.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ujMPhoDrl2g/TILHRtL-66I/AAAAAAAAAIg/herkMrwSthk/s200/brown.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Appropriate thank you note</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div>While some people may disagree, I always prefer to send hand-written thank you notes as opposed to the more formal and dime-a-dozen typed thank you letters. The reason for this is that I believe handwriting a card gives it a personal touch and shows that you put some thought into it. With the amount of email and other electronic communication people see each day, receiving something handwritten stands out. </div><div><br />
</div><div>When choosing what to write on, it's ideal to own a set of personalized stationary with your name on it, but not everyone can afford this or may need to send the note before there is time to order a set (Hint- Put it on your Christmas list). A package of stationary or cards from a store such as Target or Hallmark is completely fine, just think classy and make sure you keep it professional by staying away from crazy colors and patterns. When picking one out, choose a card that is blank on the inside so you have room to write everything you need to and don't have to work around the printed message inside.</div><div><br />
</div><div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ujMPhoDrl2g/TILGAI5ez6I/AAAAAAAAAII/ilds3Bj0B6Q/s1600/thanks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ujMPhoDrl2g/TILGAI5ez6I/AAAAAAAAAII/ilds3Bj0B6Q/s200/thanks.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Inappropriate thank you note</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: left;"></div><b>What to say</b></div><div><br />
</div><div>How you address the recipient of the note is one of the first things they will see, so put some thought into it. If they indicated that you should call them by their first name then address them by that, but if you're not sure go ahead and use Mr., Ms., or Mrs. You will want to keep the note short and sweet, but at the same time fit in everything that you want to say. Be sure to thank the person for their time right off the bat and reference the situation that you're writing the card for to refresh their memory. To help figure out everything that you want to say, type your message on the computer first and once you've nailed it down transfer it to the actual note. If you have horrible handwriting definitely go with sending a typed note; you want to make sure that everything is neat and legible. Don't forget to sign the note, thank them one more time, and use a professional closing such as "Sincerely". Also, add your contact information to the bottom in case they need to reach you. After you're finished, read over the note to check for errors and then read it again or have someone else look at it just to double-check.</div><div><br />
</div><div><b>After an interview</b></div><div><b><br />
</b></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ujMPhoDrl2g/TILHW5HxP0I/AAAAAAAAAIo/3K0Lts-opBk/s1600/orange.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="191" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ujMPhoDrl2g/TILHW5HxP0I/AAAAAAAAAIo/3K0Lts-opBk/s200/orange.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Appropriate thank you note</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div>Writing a thank you card after an interview is a lot trickier than writing one for many of the other situations. Since the interviewer will probably be receiving thank you cards from other applicants as well, you definitely want yours to stand out. In this situation, it might be best to type up a more formal letter, just to ensure that you have room for everything you need to say and that it can be easily read. </div><div><br />
</div><div>After the introduction where you thank them for their time, recap why you are the most qualified for the position and possibly give an example of how. Don't leave any doubt in their mind that you have a strong interest in the company, especially after learning a bit more during the interview. Touch on anything the interviewer brought up during the interview that you found especially interesting or anything that you connected over. Also, use the opportunity to add in anything you might have forgotten to mention during the interview or feel you want to expand on, but don't explicitly state that you forgot.</div><div><br />
</div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ujMPhoDrl2g/TILIapXTQRI/AAAAAAAAAI4/E90qYCdRsVs/s1600/gracias.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ujMPhoDrl2g/TILIapXTQRI/AAAAAAAAAI4/E90qYCdRsVs/s200/gracias.jpg" width="154" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Inappropriate thank you note</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div><b>Step on it</b></div><div><b><br />
</b></div><div>Writing a thank you note should be done soon after whatever you're thanking the person for took place. For example, if the note is for a job interview start working on it as soon as you get home and get it in the mail the same day. You don't want to risk the person wondering why you haven't thanked them yet if they had some expectations about receiving a note.</div><div><br />
</div><div><b>Is it okay to email?</b></div><div><b><br />
</b></div><div>It's generally not okay to send a thank you through email since this takes all of the personality and effort out of the process. The only times I might send a thank you via email is if I already know the person well and sending a card might be a little over-board for whatever I'm thanking them for. One exception is if you send an email and follow-up with a handwritten note.</div>Michelle Pencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11380343629358541303noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8948772108932266357.post-53869314310236308462010-09-01T21:11:00.000-07:002010-11-05T07:47:46.769-07:00Rocking the First Day of Your Internship: Do's and Don'tsI realize that the last couple of posts about starting a new internship contained a lot of different information that might be overwhelming to cover when you're already busy with school and about to add a new internship to the chaos. To make your life a little bit easier, I'm going to compile a quick and easy list to guide you through your first day. Print it out, follow it, and you should start out on an excellent foot.<br />
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<u>Here are some of the main Do's and Don'ts to remember when starting your new internship:</u><br />
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DO always keep a smile on your face<br />
DO practice good posture<br />
DON'T bite your nails or give in to other nervous habits<br />
DO dress clean-cut and conservative<br />
DO makes sure your clothes are clean and in good condition<br />
DO introduce yourself to people<br />
DO speak clearly and confidently<br />
DON'T mumble, use slang, or ever curse<br />
DO be calm and control your nerves<br />
DO look people in the eyes when talking to them<br />
DO have a firm handshake<br />
DON'T use your phone or other electronics. Period.<br />
DO remember people's names by repeating them in your head<br />
DO keep your conversations professional<br />
DON'T look bored about not-so-exciting tasks<br />
DO think before you speak<br />
DO research the company<br />
DO plan what you're going to wear in advance<br />
DO know the location of the building beforehand<br />
DO map out the parking situation before showing up<br />
DO bring a notebook and pen<br />
DO remember to bring whatever they asked you to bring<br />
DO bring food to munch onMichelle Pencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11380343629358541303noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8948772108932266357.post-61080326815763650802010-09-01T13:37:00.000-07:002010-11-05T07:47:08.904-07:00How to Make the Best First Impression<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"></span></span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ujMPhoDrl2g/THxtpZx7rAI/AAAAAAAAAH4/OEZTCgDoVms/s1600/handshake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ujMPhoDrl2g/THxtpZx7rAI/AAAAAAAAAH4/OEZTCgDoVms/s320/handshake.jpg" /></a></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><br />
</span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">After putting hours of thought into how the first day of your new internship will go- meticulously planning what you're going to wear, researching the background of the company, and trying to manage the anxious thoughts running through your mind- the thought that upon meeting you, your new colleagues will form an opinion of you within 3-5 seconds is ABSOLUTELY TERRIFYING. Add in that it takes a whole lot more time to change that initial impression than it does to form it, and you should be officially shaking in your boots.</span></span></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">While 3-5 seconds is truly not a heck-of-a lot of time, it is completely possible to make the BEST first impression and convince everyone at your new gig that you will be the best intern they've ever had, as long as you follow these simple rules.</span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><br />
</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><br />
</span></span></span></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><b>It's all about the non-verbals</b></span></span><br />
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</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">Nonverbal communication is not only my favorite kind of communication to study (anyone seen the show Lie to Me?), but it's also one of the most important and hardest to control. </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 13px;">Your attitude and how you present yourself on the first day of an internship will speak volumes about how you are as a professional, and give people an idea of what they can expect from you during your internship. As soon as you walk in the door on day one, make it clear that you are genuinely happy to be there and are gracious for the opportunity. This can be achieved by simply keeping a smile on your face. You want to appear friendly and approachable, because looking overwhelmed or unhappy will give people the idea that you aren't capable or don't want to be there. Also, whether you're sitting or standing, practice good posture and avoid nervous habits such as nail-biting so you don't come off as sloppy or unprofessional. </span><br />
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<div style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><b>Look the part</b></span></span></div></div><div style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><br />
</span></span></div></div><div style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">It's an undeniable, and sometimes regrettable, fact that people judge you based on your appearance. At most internships, in the beginning it's better to blend in, rather than stand out and draw lots of attention to yourself. In some industries individuality and unique personal style are good and even encouraged, but when starting a typical internship, stay on the safe-side with your dress by looking clean-cut and conservative. Don't wear anything too bold or revealing, and make sure your clothing is clean and in good condition. Looking like you just rolled out of bed is a definite no-no for the first day, or any day for that matter. As you get further along in your internship, you can decide what is acceptable to wear and start adding more personal elements to you appearance, but when trying to make that great first impression, playing it safe is the best bet.</span></span></div></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><br />
</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><b>Talk the talk</b></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><br />
</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">The initial conversations you share with your new colleagues are going to be one of the most obvious opportunities to make a good impression. Don't hesitate to introduce yourself to people if introductions aren't offered to you, since these are the people you definitely want to get in good with during your internship for many different reasons. You want to make sure that your speech is clear and confident, making you appear like a complete professional. Avoid</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 13px;"> mumbling, using slang, and don't EVER curse. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 13px;">One thing that I personally try to do in professional settings is control my nerves and anxieties, and speak like I'm completely confident and comfortable with the situation, even when it's not true. Some tips to remember when talking to people at work are to always look a person in the eye when you're talking to them, and make sure you have a firm, but not bone-crushing, handshake. Having to remember numerous people's names is another challenge, so when a person introduces themselves, repeat their name back to them by saying something along the lines of </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 13px;">"It's so nice to meet you so-and-so", or repeat their name in your head a couple times. First day conversations should bear on the professional side, sticking with topics relating directly to your internship, but after that, feel free to ask questions and get to know the people at your internship. You will have a much more positive experience if you do.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><br />
</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><b>Show 'em what you've got</b></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><br />
</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">How you handle the tasks you're given on your first day will say a lot about how you are as an intern. No matter how dull the task, be enthusiastic about doing it. You're happy to be there, remember? Take notes during your training, ask questions when necessary, and you should start off on a great foot. Remember to use common sense before asking your supervisor </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">too many questions</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">. No one likes an intern who doesn't use their brain before opening their mouth. If you're really questioning what the heck you're doing, by all means ask away. I've found that some employers will use the first couple days to test interns, and see exactly what they can/can't handle. Even if you feel overwhelmed by the tasks that you're given, make every effort to stay calm and work through them. I've had internships where I started out doing the most boring tasks like massive amounts of filing (ugh), but always stayed positive and was later given much more important things to do.</span></span><br />
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">If you are able to remember any of my advice on your first day, remember that CONFIDENCE IS KEY. Go in with a good attitude, maintain that positivity, and you should be the star intern you were hoping to be.</span></span></b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><br />
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</span></span></div>Michelle Pencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11380343629358541303noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8948772108932266357.post-58820469918927248152010-08-26T15:01:00.000-07:002010-11-05T07:46:39.558-07:00Link Roundup 8/26/10<div class="MsoNormal"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ujMPhoDrl2g/TIPwgferM2I/AAAAAAAAAJQ/pf2L0VxSQKw/s1600/goodinternlogo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="236" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ujMPhoDrl2g/TIPwgferM2I/AAAAAAAAAJQ/pf2L0VxSQKw/s320/goodinternlogo.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
I love good stories about <a href="http://www.walletpop.com/blog/2010/08/18/from-anapata-to-zuckerberg-10-college-whiz-kids-and-their-succe/">college-age entrepreneurs who made it big with their start-up companies. </a> This list by Wallet Pop includes the obvious (Mark Zuckerberg of Facebook notoriety) and some you might not have heard of before.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Monster recently posted a pretty extensive article about <a href="http://hotjobs.yahoo.com/career-articles-1393">hot jobs that didn’t exist back when our generation was growing up</a>. Did you grow up wanting to be a green marketer? Probably not. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Plenty of people I know lust after the days when Facebook was limited to college students only. <a href="http://collegecandy.com/2010/08/26/would-you-leave-facebook-for-a-collegeonly-world/">Would you leave Facebook for a college only social networking site?</a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">The New York Times has an article about <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2010/08/26/education/26SOCIAL.html?_r=2">social networking your way to a job.</a> Welcome to 2010.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">I don’t know much about <a href="http://www.businessweek.com/technology/content/aug2010/tc20100820_073069.htm">the new Facebook Places feature</a> besides that it’s something like Four Square, but Business Week says the real rival is Yelp. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">College Fashion has some <a href="http://www.collegefashion.net/college-life/readjusting-to-college-life-3-tips-for-upperclassmen/">quick and easy tips for returning upperclassmen</a>.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">If you want to be smarter than your brain (how awkward does that sound?), this article from Life Hacker has some really interesting <a href="http://lifehacker.com/5611547/top-10-ways-your-brain-is-sabotaging-you-and-how-to-beat-it">ways to train your brain to think differently</a> so you can be more productive. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">I love apps! Web Storm has a list of <a href="http://web.appstorm.net/roundups/20-back-to-school-apps-and-tools-for-students/">20 back to school apps and tools for college students</a>. </div>Michelle Pencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11380343629358541303noreply@blogger.com0