It’s The Time of Year to Apply for Internships

The ideal time to apply for summer internships is earlier than most students expect. Many companies, especially large corporations and tech firms, begin their recruitment cycles 6-8 months before the internship start date. Now is the peak application season for summer 2025 internships.

Completing at least one Internship has so many benefits for students in technical fields:

• Gaining hands-on, real-world technical experience
• Boosting your employability
• Building on skills beyond what you learn in the classroom
• Developing industry connections
• Gaining exposure to real-world technology stacks
• Developing a better understanding of technical career paths
• Getting paid!
• Developing a project portfolio

Applying for internships can feel overwhelming, but with the right strategy and preparation, you can significantly increase your chances of success.

Where to Look

Cast a wide net using multiple channels:

• Company websites
• Job boards (SacITCentral, LinkedIn, Indeed, Handshake) https://joinhandshake.com/
• University career portals
• Industry-specific job sites
• Professional associations in your field
• Alumni networks
• Career fairs (both virtual and in-person)

While it may be tiresome, your resume should be tailored for each application, highlighting relevant skills and experiences. Key components:

• Clear, professional formatting
• Quantifiable achievements
• Technical skills and certifications
• Relevant coursework
• Projects and extracurricular activities
• Leadership experiences

Write a compelling cover letter that goes beyond restating your resume:

• Research the company thoroughly
• Address specific job requirements
• Share relevant examples of your work
• Express genuine interest in the role
• Demonstrate cultural fit

If you have a technical portfolio, consider referencing it:

• Include only your best work
• Demonstrate range and versatility
• Explain your process and problem-solving
• Keep it updated and easily accessible

Before you hit the “submit” button on the application, make sure you:

1. Research target companies thoroughly
2. Network with current employees and alumni
3. Update all professional social media profiles
4. Practice interview skills
5. Prepare your elevator pitch

There are many internships in the Sacramento region or close by.  Check out the collection of current Technology Internships SacITCentral has curated: