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Internships give college students opportunities to gain work experience, strengthen their resumes and form connections that could potentially lead to employment after graduation. As a college student seeking a successful future career, you should make use of internship opportunities. These steps will aid you in landing the internship of your dreams! 1. Apply. This step is pretty self-explanatory. To be guaranteed an internship offer, it is crucial that you take the time to apply for AT LEAST 15 positions. This will ensure you have as many options as possible. Also be sure to make use of your college or university’s online career finder where many internship opportunities can be found. 2. Do your research. If you’re invited for an interview, be sure to re-read the job description and look at the employer’s web site. During interviews, it is common for interviewers to ask you what you know about their business or company. Conducting research beforehand will allow you to successfully answer this question. 3. Update your resume and have extra copies. Taking extra copies of your resume shows the interviewer that you are organized and prepared. This step is especially important if you have modified your resume in any way. That way, the interviewer will be able to view the most recent version of your resume. 4. Calm your nerves. It is completely natural to have pre-interview jitters! You can help yourself calm down by breathing deeply and listening to relaxing music. 5. Dress appropriately and walk in with confidence. If you’re unsure about what to wear to your interview, the rule of thumb for dressing properly is to dress more formally than necessary. This usually means business formal (pant-suit or blazer with skirt and close-toed shoes). It is also important to walk into your interview with confidence. Keep your arms uncrossed and hold your head high. 6. Practice your warm smile, eye contact and firm handshake. If these skills don’t come naturally to you, don’t hesitate to practice with friends! Maintaining eye contact and properly shaking hands takes practice. 7. Don’t forget to send a thank you! This is extremely important to do after the interview and shows the interviewer that you’re still interested in the position. Thank them for their time, briefly say why you’d be a good fit for the position and wish them well. You should do this within the first 24 hours after your interview.8. Reward yourself. If you’re offered the position, reward yourself by doing something you enjoy! If you’re denied the position, don’t be discouraged. Successfully executing all of these steps takes practice. Instead, view this disappointment as a learning experience that will help you succeed in the future. You still have plenty of other options!