Career Information for Technical Students
Leslie Rand-Pickett, Career Advisor for CSC, ECE, IMSE, NE & OR students
NC State University Career Center *
515-2396 * 2100 Pullen Hall * Campus Box 7303 * Raleigh, NC 27695
 



 

Internships-- FAQ

   
  When do I start looking?
Every employer has their own timeline for internship searching, with some starting in the fall semester & others in the spring.  To ensure that you see the most opportunities possible, I recommend that you sort the career fair list by who is recruiting interns, and check ePack for internship listings in the fall & spring semesters.  Recruiting for summer interns reaches its peak in late January/early February.
 
  Internship & Co-op
what's the difference?

Internships
Most students seek internships during the summer, while others seek part-time internships during the semester. You may intern for the same or different employer each time. This flexibility allows you to sample different career paths and employers of different sizes, locations, and industries. You may start interning at any time.  

Co-ops
Cooperative education is an academic program that combines coursework with experience by alternating semesters of each (usually just one semester for graduate students).
You are eligible to co-op after your first year at NC State (or first semester as a transfer or graduate student.) Program completion includes one year of full-time work with the same employer.

 

  Where can I find internships?
1. ePack is a great place to start, because these are companies who have targeted NC State students as potential interns.
You should upload  your resume, then begin applying for internships. Be sure your ePack profile is set to YES for "Allow Employer Viewing?" 
2. Other good resources include: the Engineering Career Fair, the Co-op office, Department job boards or listservs. 
3. Career Search is a tool provided by the Career Center that can help you identify specific companies that do the type of work you are interested in. 
4. Once you know which company you want to work for, you can contact the company directly, and apply online or email your resume to the recruiter. 
 
 
  What is the role of the Career Center?
The Career Center not only provides a connection with hundreds of companies, through internship listings and contact information, but also support in your search.  For many students, this is your first "real" job search, where a resume, cover letter, and interview is required.  It can be a bit intimidating, and we are here to help.  Guidance is available via your counselor as you progress through each student in the process. Leslie generally has 10 hours per week of walk-in hours per week, and is available by appointment & via email as needed. 
 
  For INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
Don't forget to utilize the resources of the Co-op office in your search.  They provide important resources to ensure you are in compliance with your visa. Special co-op orientation sessions are provided with all of the info you need. Click here for a link to their schedule. You may want to begin your search early in the spring semester, since you'll have an NC State GPA by then.
 


Resume Writing * Salary info * Managing job offers * Cover Letters * Job Searching * Using ePack * Using Career Search