The job market is competitive more than ever. An information security internship greatly increases your chances of landing a job in the said field.

Almost every job listing requires experience. New college graduates find that fact discouraging. If all existing job listings require experience, how can professionals gain the needed experience? 

An information security internship is an excellent way for individuals to gain the needed experience. It is a temporary position that allows candidates to gain experience in their field. Internships may be paid or unpaid. Furthermore, internships give candidates great hands-on training in a real-life scenario.

Why Pursue an Internship?

A hiring manager receives an average of 250 resumes per job listing. That is indeed a lot of resumes to review! Most professionals think that they can ace the interview with their personality. 

However, getting that interview is the real challenge. Moreover, a hiring manager usually calls only six applicants out of 250. Thus, it is extremely difficult to stand out within a pile of resumes.

Most organizations prefer candidates with at least some experience to those with no experience. An information security internship helps your resume stand out from other resumes. 

Furthermore, a study by NACE supports that. NACE’s 2012 Student Survey also revealed that approximately 60% of college graduates with a completed internship received at least one job offer.

Moreover, internships provide individuals a better understanding of workplace etiquette. Additionally, this boosts the individuals’ confidence in the environment. Furthermore, you’ll get to work with professionals in the field. It is most likely that you can use them as your connections. Connections are invaluable during the job hunt.

Furthermore, internships may result in landing a full-time job in that organization. Companies often look at their pool of interns when looking for employees. This is because companies already invested resources in their interns. Of course, the best hires are the ones who proved that they fit into the organization’s workforce and culture.

How To Apply For An Information Security Internship

Organizations don’t just give internships to any candidates. Like an actual job, you must stand out from the rest of the internship candidates. Maintaining excellent grades is a great way to stand out. 

Furthermore, engage with extra-curricular activities related to your desired profession. Seize every opportunity your school offers. This strengthens your resume and cover letter.

You should prepare a cover letter and resume when looking for an internship. It is unlikely for students to have a lot of work experience. Hence, focus your resume on the achievements you got at your school.

Also, do your research before developing a cover letter. This shows that you’re deeply interested in the field and not just in the paycheck. Focus your cover letter on the field and industry you’re hoping to enter. Your cover letter must show your skills that set you apart from other candidates.

Companies often interview candidates before accepting them into the information security internship. Take it seriously as a job interview. Search for commonly asked interview questions. Furthermore, prepare personalized answers rather than memorizing the ones listed on the internet.