Find a position description for an internship that interests you and fits your qualifications (more or less). Be sure the internship position description explicitly states it is for an internship. Internships are different than regular employment because interns are entitled to an educational experience that other types of employment opportunities do not need to provide. In upcoming assignments, you will create a custom résumé and cover letter applying for the internship you choose.
Copy and paste the exact words provided by the hiring organization describing the internship position, requirements and qualifications they are looking for in candidates, and how to apply into a document. Error on the side of including too much information rather than too little. Some of these are only one page, but they can potentially fill many pages. If there is very little information, consider how you can find out more or if you might need to find another internship opportunity. Fix the formatting if it is distorted. This is an essential step because this internship position description will be used throughout the semester and links on the web are often taken down. While you may also want to include a link to the position description, having the exact wording available to you in a document of your own will be necessary.
Analyze the internship description. If possible, annotate a copy of it. Circle terms that are important to the position. Research the hiring organization, the position, and any key terms you need to know more about so you can “speak their language.” Start connecting your own experiences and qualifications to what the employer is looking for in a candidate.