Landing your first co-op or internship is tough — it’s an uphill battle of resumes, HireVue, tests, and endless waiting. But I promise, there’s light at the end of the tunnel. Whether it’s your first job or your 30th, the process is just as frustrating. With summer internships approaching, I want to make your search a little less stressful. Here’s a guide to help you navigate the chaos.
1. Start Early—Earlier Than You Think
If you haven’t started yet, don’t panic — it’s never too late. Just start now! There’s no “perfect” time to apply. If you wait until March or April, you might find fewer openings, but you could also get lucky with last-minute hires. The key is to be proactive.
Where should you look? Handshake is a great starting point — Stevens pays for it, so use it! LinkedIn is another solid option, though I personally prefer Handshake for internship and co-op searches.
2. Go to Career Fairs (Even If They Make You Nervous)
Stevens hosts multiple career fairs throughout the year, including a virtual one. These events give you direct access to recruiters from top companies. Even if you don’t land an interview right away, networking can open doors for future hiring cycles.
Beyond the Stevens career fair, many student organizations host their own. SHPE, SWE, SWIC, ACES, and others run industry-focused fairs and career prep workshops that can boost your chances. Even academic departments like STEP and CEOE hold their own career fairs, so always keep an eye out for opportunities.
3. Perfect Your Resume and LinkedIn
There’s no one perfect resume format — every recruiter has different preferences. Instead of stressing over perfection, focus on clarity, quantifiable achievements, and Applicant Tracking System (ATS) compatibility. Many big companies filter resumes through software before a human even sees them, so run yours through a free ATS checker to improve its chances.
LinkedIn is just as important. Many recruiters check profiles before reaching out, so keep yours updated year-round!
4. Apply Everywhere and Anywhere
It’s a numbers game. Apply to hundreds of positions, not just five or ten. Customizing your applications is great, but don’t get stuck perfecting a single one while missing out on others.
Rejection is part of the process — every “no” gets you closer to a “yes.” Keep track of your applications to stay organized. Whether it’s using an Excel sheet, email folders, or a tracking system from the Career Center, find a method that works for you.
5. Consider Research and On-Campus Jobs
If landing an internship or co-op isn’t working out, consider research opportunities at Stevens. They’re often less competitive, look great on a resume, and help you build connections with professors. On-campus jobs—especially those that offer technical, leadership, or project-based work—can also strengthen your application for future internships.
Final Thoughts
Finding a co-op or internship takes effort, persistence, and strategy — but it’s 100% doable. Use the Career Center, network with alumni, and apply widely. Whether it’s your first internship or your dream co-op, the right opportunity is out there waiting for you.
So don’t get discouraged — reach out, ask for help, and keep going. Someone will help you get where you need to be!
