Frequently Asked Questions

When should I begin my summer job search?

What should I look for in a "good" internship?

Will I be paid for an internship?

What do I do if the internship requires I receive college credit?

How does On-Campus Recruiting work for summer jobs?

What are my housing options?

I am a sophomore but a company states that they want juniors
-- can I still apply?

What does "networking" mean?

Whom can I contact for help?

When should I begin my summer job search?

Because the summer job hunt has become quite competitive in many fields, it is important to pay attention to deadlines and send in applications in a timely manner (even early). We recommend that students begin the initial stages of the summer job search around mid-October, given that some popular internships have early deadlines. This is particularly the case with government and journalism internships. For example, the U.S. Department of State internship application deadline is November 1st. Give yourself time to research your options before you must begin applying in full force. Since new job leads arrive at Career Services daily, check the online listings in TigerTracks frequently. If you are interested in nonprofit organizations, be certain to talk to staff at the various Princeton program offices (e.g., CBLI, Student Volunteer Council, Class of '69 Community Service Fund) in the fall.

What should I look for in a "good" internship?

An internship should expose you to career-related, pre-professional tasks. Formal training programs are not offered by all employers, but you should expect some training and regular supervision. A good supervisor should be committed to offering career advice and constructive feedback. If an employer doesn't seem to have a formal plan for you, sit down and develop a "learning contract" - a set of goals and knowledge you would like to achieve. This will structure your experience and help the employer know how to utilize your best capabilities. Speak to a career counselor for more information about developing learning contracts or developing your own internship.

Ideally, you will receive an overview of all departments and functions within the organization, for a better understanding of the industry. If not offered the opportunity to interact with those outside your department, take it upon yourself (when you can) to make appointments with other people within the company, to interview them for information and gather a broader picture of the organization's operations.

Will I be paid for an internship?

Not all internships are paid. Some employers offer college credit only. Others might offer travel assistance, housing assistance, or a small stipend that you may use any way you need. Many organizations can offer only the experience and supervision you receive, with no other compensation. While you have to weigh the importance of monetary compensation, you should evaluate the experience and nature of work you will perform to decide if it is worth foregoing a wage. A variety of Princeton programs and funds are available to help you obtain financial assistance for unpaid internships. See the Funding Information link for more information.

What do I do if the internship requires I receive college credit?

Some internships require that students receive college credit. If you find an internship you are interested in that has this requirement, contact the Internship Coordinator in Career Services to discuss the university's policy on credit for internships. The Internship Coordinator can also write a letter on your behalf in support of your internship application that requires academic credit.

How does On-Campus Recruiting work for summer internships?

Limited opportunities to interview on campus for internship positions are available. Most of the internships in this category are open mainly for juniors. The first step -- which all students should do regardless of class standing -- is to log in to TigerTracks, our online recruiting and communication system, and complete a career profile. By completing a personal profile, Career Services will know what your career interests are and will be able to send you targeted emails announcing jobs and other opportunities. You should register with TigerTracks even if you do not intend to interview on campus, as this will allow us to best promote other opportunities to you via email and will also allow you to search through the thousands of internship listings contained within the system.

Those organizations interviewing on campus will have their internship descriptions posted within the TigerTracks system. Registered students may log in, review job descriptions, and retrieve company contact information. If interested in an internship, students may upload a resume and cover letter into the system and electronically submit them to each employer of interest. In fact, students may store multiple documents within TigerTracks, allowing you to tailor your search materials. You may also scan in a copy of your transcript, as many employers ask to see your complete academic history, which can also be electronically forwarded. After the application deadline, employers review resumes and select those students they wish to interview. You may check the system, and often you will receive emails, to see if you have been invited. One week prior to the interview, you may sign up for a specific time slot.

What are my housing options?

In most cases, you will be responsible for securing your own summer housing. The link in the right-hand menu of this page, Housing Information, should help you get started. Depending on the organization, you might receive assistance in terms of financial support or referrals to brokers or apartment referral services. Look into summer housing opportunities in college dormitories and scour the newspaper for sublease opportunities. Ask your employer for the names of other interns -- you might find a willing roommate. Always ask your employer for other suggestions regarding where to look.

I am a sophomore but a company states that they want juniors -- can I still apply?

While some organizations are very strict about hiring juniors, you should still write or call the company if you are extremely interested in the position. The worst that can happen is they will say no; many will admire your initiative. For students who have completed advanced coursework, age restrictions may be overlooked. Basically, it depends on the particular company, but don't be afraid to ask if you aren't sure whether to apply or not (ask a career counselor if you are worried about "bothering" an employer).

What does "networking" mean?

According to one statistic, 80% of all jobs are landed through personal connections. Networking means establishing and maintaining connections with people who can assist you throughout your entire career, offering advice and guidance; networking is also a critical component to the job search, because as you speak with people they might offer potential job leads. Anyone you know is a potential contact. Don't be afraid to mention your desire to secure an internship to your family and friends. In order to build your network, start by contacting members of the Princeton Alumni Careers Network (ACN). Thousands of Princeton alumni are willing to give you advice on their particular field.

Whom can I contact for help?

Counselors in Career Services are available to answer any of your questions. Please stop by for walk-in hours (2:00 to 4:00 pm, M-F, during the academic year) or call 258-3325 to make a 30-minute appointment.