Applying to internships can be exciting, but also intimidating and anxiety-provoking. Though I am thrilled to apply and interview at these sites, I am finding that my insecurities has been ever-present. I thought I'd begin by putting a list together to make this process easier for you. I am, by no means, knowledgeable about this process, but perhaps talking about some of my hiccups will help your process go a little more smoothly.
Begin talking about internship early with supervisors, professors, and advisors. I have found that most of my supervisors enjoy talking about their internship process and their knowledge has helped me significantly. Even something as little as what to wear to interviews can be really helpful and reduce some anxiety. For the record, I had no idea what "hosiery" was (yes, embarrassing), but I blame that on my farm-girl upbringing.
Start essays early. My graduate school does an excellent job making sure the essays are polished before sending them to potential internship sites. I've drafted several copies of my essays and each week, I think of something different I would like to say. If you feel comfortable, may have someone outside of the field of psychology read through your essays. Excellent advice I was given by my supervisor was this: As someone interested in psychodynamic psychotherapy and psychoanalysis, use words that ANYBODY can understand. Do not ostracize your audience, even if you are looking at programs that are in line with your specialty.
Appear teachable. This one surprised me. I thought I was supposed to appear smart and put together. Ensure that your programs of interest know that you are flexible and teachable. Also, see #2 above. This advice given to me reflects what I put in my essays.
Reach out to peers for support. This process is intimidating, and it can bring on a lot of insecurity. If you feel comfortable, talk to your peers about your experiences. They might be feeling similarly.
Find programs that align with your values. If you are able, apply to sites that actually interest you. Some people need to stay around a specific area, so the site options can be quite limited. However, I did some substantial digging/research and found sites to which I am EXCITED to apply. I noticed my excitement when writing the cover letters and knew the site was potentially a good fit. What I also found helpful was looking at the "training model" or "mission statement" for each site. There were several sites that had very little identity as a program, and I found it hard to see myself at those sites (despite me still applying to few due to specific training opportunities and shared interests).
Start saving money. Enough said. It's COVID-19 season now, but there are some sites that still require in-person interviews. 12 of 14 of my sites are on the East or West coast (and I live in Wisconsin), so I've been working extra hours to pay for my travel.
More about internship to come.
- cg
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