If you want to land an entry-level job at a specific company after graduation, the best way to do it is to first prove yourself at that company through an internship or co-op.
But you can't expect to turn an internship into a full-time job just by showing up for your assignment with a pulse and a clock to watch the time go by.
"As an intern, you are in competition with other interns for full-time openings," says Christi Lehner, director of college relations for Abbott Laboratories, where 53 percent of the company's eligible interns were hired for full-time jobs in 2003. "You need to set yourself apart and show your value to the organization."
Here's how.
Take Your Role Seriously -- Very Seriously
"Treat your internship as if it was a real job," says Megan Elias, a 2003 public relations graduate from Westminster College in New Wilmington, Pennsylvania. Elias interned with Animal Friends, an animal shelter in Pittsburgh, before landing a full-time job there last summer.
"Whether it's a full or part-time internship -- paid, unpaid or for college credits -- take it seriously," Elias says. "Work hard. Just because you're an intern doesn't mean you shouldn't take your duties seriously."
Elias knows whereof she speaks. During her special-events planning internship at Animal Friends, she coordinated a "Bark ‘n' Brew" social event, handling everything from making contacts and developing a budget to publicizing the event and even working with the participating dogs....
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