Katie Mack worked at New Hampshire Businesses for Social Responsibility (NHBSR) as its Communications Intern. NHBSR is currently looking for interns and encourages those interested to apply by visiting MonsterTrak and searching with the keyword “NHBSR”

Katie Mack is a senior Communication major and Business Administration minor. Before graduating from the University of New Hampshire this May, Mack worked at New Hampshire Businesses for Social Responsibility (NHBSR) as its Communications Intern. NHBSR is a statewide non-profit membership organization that fosters socially and environmentally responsible business in New Hampshire by helping businesses recognize that people, principles and profits must be linked. Since September 2006, Mack has worked with the non-profit organization by composing its monthly newsletter, writing press releases, corresponding with media contacts concerning upcoming NHBSR events, and serving as staff liaison for the public relations/marketing committee. In addition to the valuable hands on experience she received, Mack had the extraordinary opportunity to network with professionals from top companies throughout New Hampshire. To learn more about NHBSR, visit www.nhbsr.org or contact Katie Mack at klmack@gmail.com.

How did you prepare for your internship search? What were some of the steps in your preparation, i.e. fine tune resume, cover letter, attend internship fair, etc.

Before I began my internship search, I took the time to work with advisors at Hood House to draft a solid resume. I also set up an account with MonsterTrak, which ended up being the one resource that led me to my internship opportunities at NOVA Technology Corporation and New Hampshire Businesses for Social Responsibility (NHBSR). However, the most important thing I did to prepare for my internship search was identify exactly what I was looking for in an internship. Personally, I came to the conclusion that I wanted to work in the communications or marketing sector of a large corporation, a small business, and a non-profit before graduating from college and pursuing an entry level position. I was able to accomplish this goal and the experiences allowed me to better judge what kind of business I wanted to be apart of after college.

What was the one thing you did in your internship search that helped you get the opportunity you wanted?

I don’t consider so much what I did in my internship search than consider how I conducted myself in the search that helped me get the opportunity I wanted. Going into the search and application process requires a moderate amount of self confidence in your capabilities of interning at a company given that you have little to no experience. If you are applying for a marketing internship at an organization and the most marketing experience you have is completing MKGT 550: Intro to Marketing, you need to possess and at least radiate confidence in your ability to be a great marketing intern. (By the way, that was my situation when applying to NOVA Technology Corporation!)

What three things would you tell your peers they need to do so they find and secure a great internship?

1. Explore all outlets of securing an internship

I was fortunate enough to find two internships through MonsterTrak and highly recommend the site for internship searching. However, do not limit yourself to one outlet. Network with your professors, family, friends, and other contacts to see what is out there for internships that might not be “officially” posted on internet job sites. If you have an organization in mind that you would like to intern for, go to its website and seek out contact information and be proactive!

2. Practice the interviewing process before going into an actual interview for an internship position.

The mantra “practice makes perfect” is so true! The Career Center at Hood House has a great program where students can sign up on “Practice Interview Day” to seek advice and constructive criticism on their interviewing skills.

3. Read “From Learning to Earning” by Dan Finnigan and Marc Karasu (can be found at your local Barnes and Noble store)

This book was my job searching bible this semester as I actively searched for my first post-college job. I only wish I had access to the knowledge this book provides while searching for internships!

Talk about the benefits of networking, timely follow-ups, and being proactive in your search.

Being proactive in your internship search is crucial in order to secure the ideal position. I knew my lack of “on the job” experience hindered my ability to demonstrate how I was a person who took initiative – a quality most hiring managers are looking for in a candidate. However, being proactive and taking initiative in the process of securing an internship will help you overcome this hurdle. Following up with your interviewer with a prompt and polite “thank you” note either electronically or through the mail is an action internship seekers should conduct.

What did you learn from your internship search that you will apply in future job searches?

I’ve found that the process of searching for a post college entry level position is not much different than searching for internships as an undergraduate. I am grateful to have the experience of applying for internships as an undergrad because it has helped me be more proficient and confident when seeking out that all important first job.

What was the most valuable part of your internship experience? What skills did you gain or enhance as a result of being an intern?

My internship experiences have provided me with invaluable real-world experience as I’ve been afforded the opportunity to figure out what tasks in the workforce I enjoy completing as well as what it was I did not enjoy in the workplace. I was fortunate enough to be an intern in organizations that helped me foster a network with employees and business associates, and take initiative on various projects.