by Securing an internship can be a pivotal step in your career journey. It's your chance to apply your academic knowledge in a real-world setting and start building your professional network.
However, how to write an internship resume if you don't have much experience yet?
In this guide, we'll walk you through the essential steps of creating a compelling resume.
From picking the right structure to effectively showcasing your qualifications, we'll provide you with practical tips and descriptive examples to help make a strong impression.
Whether you're a college student, a recent graduate, or a Master's degree candidate, writing an effective resume requires a strategic approach that highlights your strengths, theoretical foundation, and potential.
Let's get started on building your intern resume!
Internship resume examples
College internship resume samples with no experience
Ola McGarvey
ola-mcgarvey@email.com | 610-846-3099 | Philadelphia, PAObjective:
Energetic and ambitious undergraduate student seeking an internship opportunity to gain practical experience in the field of marketing. A quick learner with strong communication skills and a passion for creativity and problem-solving.
Education:
Bachelor of Science in Marketing | Drexel University (Philadelphia, PA)
- Expected Graduation: May 2026
- Current GPA: 3.90
- Relevant Coursework: Introduction to Marketing, Consumer Behavior, Advertising and Promotion, Market Research, Digital Marketing
Skills:
- Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
- Strong communication skills, both verbal and written
- Creative thinker with a knack for problem-solving
- Ability to work collaboratively in team settings
- Detail-oriented with excellent organizational skills
Extracurricular Activities:
Member, Drexel Marketing Club (2022 - Present)
Philadelphia, PA
- Help organize and facilitate a campus-wide marketing fair showcasing student-run businesses and entrepreneurial ventures.
- Coordinated a series of workshops on social media marketing strategies, attracting over 100 attendees.
Volunteer, Chestnut Community Food Bank (2021 - Present)
Philadelphia, PA
- Help organize food drives and distribute meals to families in need
Honors and Awards:
- Dean's List (all semesters)
References:
Dr. Carole C. Hillman | Drexel University Associate Professor of Marketing c.hilman@drexel.edu
Examples of a college student's resume for an internship
Enrique Hamilton
enrique-hamilton@email.com | 631-354-7511 | New York, NYObjective:
Motivated and detail-oriented senior journalism student seeking an internship to gain hands-on experience in the field of journalism. A passionate storyteller with strong writing and research skills, eager to contribute to a dynamic media organization.
Education:
Bachelor of Arts in Journalism | Columbia University
- Expected Graduation: May 2025
- GPA: 4.00
Relevant Coursework:
- News Writing and Reporting
- Feature Writing
- Multimedia Journalism
- Investigative Journalism
- Media Ethics and Law
Skills:
- Proficient in AP style and journalistic writing techniques
- Strong research and interviewing skills
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Familiarity with social media platforms and digital content creation
- Ability to work effectively under tight deadlines
Experience:
Freelance Writer, Columbia University Magazine (September 2022 - Present)
New York, NY
- Write 10 articles per month, resulting in an average of 500 shares and 100 comments per article on social media platforms
- Conduct interviews with sources and gather relevant information for articles
- Collaborate with editors to revise and refine articles, maintaining a 90% acceptance rate for submitted pieces
Intern | The Gotham Times (Summer 2023)
New York, NY
- Researched and wrote 15 articles for print and online publication, reaching an audience of over 10,000 readers per month
- Conducted interviews with 20 sources and fact-checked information for accuracy
- Assisted in generating 5 front-page stories, contributing to increased engagement and readership
Honors and Awards:
- Recipient, David Halberstam Journalism Scholarship (2024)
Recent college graduate intern resume examples
Master's student internship resume examples
Margaret Curnutt
margaret-curnutt@email.com | 507-444-9182 | Minneapolis MNObjective:
Motivated and detail-oriented Master of Laws (LL.M.) student looking to secure an internship to acquire hands-on experience in the legal field. A dedicated researcher with strong analytical skills and a passion for advocating for justice.
Education:
Master of Laws (LL.M.) in International Law | Mitchell Hamline School of Law
- Expected Graduation: May 2025
- Relevant Coursework: International Human Rights Law, International Trade Law, Public International Law, Comparative Constitutional Law, Legal Research and Writing
Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) | University of Minnesota
- Graduated: May 2023
- magna cum laude
Skills:
- Proficient in legal research and analysis
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Familiarity with international legal frameworks and treaties
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in team settings
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and legal research databases
Experience:
Research Assistant, Department of International Law (Mitchell Hamline School of Law)
September 2023 - Present
- Conduct research on topics related to human rights law and drafted literature reviews and annotated bibliographies
- Assist in editing and proofreading scholarly articles and research papers for publication
- Manage professor's schedule and coordinated meetings and appointments
Legal Intern, Anderson & Parker Law Firm (Minneapolis MN)
Summer 2023
- Conducted legal research on international trade law issues and drafted memoranda for senior attorneys
- Assisted in preparing pleadings, motions, and briefs for cases before international tribunals
- Participated in client meetings and assisted in case management activities
Extracurricular Activities:
Member, International Law Society | Mitchell Hamline School of Law
September 2023 - Present
- Participate in organizing guest lectures, workshops, and networking events for law students
- Assist in coordinating moot court competitions and mock trial exercises
Languages:
Fluent Spanish
Internship resume for study abroad
Arjun Patel
arjun.patel@email.com | (416) 555-1234 | Toronto, ONObjective
Detail-oriented finance student eager to secure a summer internship with an investment firm in Frankfurt, Germany, to apply financial analysis skills in a global market context.
Education
Bachelor of Commerce in Finance
University of Toronto, Toronto, ON
Expected Graduation: June 2025
- Relevant Coursework: Financial Management, International Finance, Risk Analysis
Experience
Finance Intern
Mason & Co. Investment Group, Toronto, ON
May 2024 – August 2024
- Assisted financial analysts in preparing quarterly financial reports, contributing to a 10% accuracy improvement.
- Conducted valuation analyses and market research for potential investment opportunities in North American tech startups.
- Participated in client meetings, providing insights and analysis that aided in decision-making processes.
Treasurer
University of Toronto Finance Club, Toronto, ON
September 2022 – Present
- Manage a budget of CAD 15,000 for club events, resulting in successful programming and increased member engagement.
- Develop financial literacy workshops for students, improving attendance by 40% through effective marketing strategies.
Skills
- Proficient in Excel, Bloomberg Terminal, and QuickBooks
- Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
- Fluent in English and German
Certifications
- Bloomberg Market Concepts (BMC) – Earned: March 2023
- Financial Modeling & Valuation Analyst (FMVA) – In Progress (Expected Completion: December 2024)
Formatting tips
Crafting a resume for an internship requires a careful balance of precise wording and professional formatting.
Below are the guidelines on how you can ensure your resume stands out.
- One Page Length. Keep your resume to one page. Employers prefer concise resumes that highlight the most relevant information quickly.
- Margins and Spacing. Ensure adequate margins (typically 1 inch) and ensure there is enough white space to enhance readability.
- Professional Font. Choose easy-to-read fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman. Keep the font size between 10-12 points for the main text and slightly larger for headings.
- Concise Language. Use direct language to communicate your qualifications effectively. Avoid long paragraphs.
- Consistency. Maintain the same formatting throughout the internship resume. For example, align all dates and locations to the right to keep the document organized.
Structure your resume with clearly defined sections such as "Contact Information", "Objective", "Education", "Experience", "Skills", etc. Use bullet points to break down information for better comprehension.
By keeping in mind these formatting tips, you can create an effective resume that showcases your qualifications and makes a strong impression on potential employers.
Remember, your internship resume is the first impression you make, so invest the time to make it as polished as possible.
Types of resumes
There are several types of resumes that help highlight different aspects of your experience and skills. The right structure depends on your career situation, the job you are applying for, and the strengths you want to emphasize.
Chronological Resume
- Structure: Lists employment history in reverse chronological order, starting with the most recent position.
- Emphasis: Work experience and job progression.
A chronological resume is best suited for experienced professionals with a consistent work history in the same field, particularly those with minimal job changes or employment gaps. It's ideal for industries like finance, healthcare, and law.
Functional Resume
- Structure: Focuses on expertise rather than chronological work history. Job titles and dates are de-emphasized.
- Emphasis: Skills and accomplishments.
A functional resume is ideal for individuals who want to highlight their qualifications rather than the order in which they worked in different places. It's beneficial for career changers, recent graduates or interns, or those with employment gaps.
Combination (Hybrid) Resume
- Structure: Combines elements of both chronological and functional resumes. It highlights relevant skills at the top followed by a chronological work history.
- Emphasis: Skills and work history.
A combination resume is advantageous for candidates with diverse skill sets and a stable work history. It's particularly effective for highlighting key qualifications and achievements, making the format suitable for mid-career professionals.
If you're writing a resume for academic internships, consider building a CV, an in-depth document that includes a comprehensive list of your academic and professional achievements.
By understanding the various types of resumes and choosing the one that best fits your situation, you can effectively showcase your qualifications and improve your chances of landing the desired internship.
Mandatory resume sections
There are several mandatory parts you should include in your resume to ensure it effectively communicates your qualifications to potential employers.
These include:
| Section | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Contact Information | Provides employers with ways to reach out to you. |
| Objective or Summary | Offers a snapshot of your professional aspirations and highlights how you can contribute to the company. |
| Education | Showcases your academic qualifications and relevant educational experiences. |
| Work Experience | Demonstrates your professional experience, skills, and accomplishments. |
| Skills | Highlights your capabilities and competencies needed to perform well on the job. |
Now, let's delve into each section to understand its significance and how to optimize its content for maximum impact.
Contact information
When listing personal information on your internship resume, make sure you include only the most important details.
At the top of your internship resume, list the following:
- Your name. State your full legal name to provide recruiters with a way to easily identify you among other applicants.
- Location. Write the city and state where you're located or where you're looking for a job.
- Phone number. Share a valid number to be accessible when you are invited for an interview.
- Email. Indicate a professional email address.
If you do not have an email yet, create one for the purpose of job seeking. Usually, it consists of a combination of your first and last name, initials, and/or numbers (but not your birthday). Do not include funny emails you came up with for texting your friend.
Depending on the position you apply for, it might also be beneficial to insert a link to your LinkedIn profile or online portfolio if you have them.
Ensure that all of the details provided are accurate and up-to-date.
Resume summary or objective
Including a summary or objective can greatly enhance your internship resume. Both provide recruiters with a concise overview of your qualifications, career goals, and what you can bring to the role. Let's see how to effectively incorporate each section.
Summary for an internship resume
A resume summary is a short recap of your professional background, key skills, and accomplishments. It's typically 2-3 sentences, intended to grab the reader's attention, and highlights your most relevant experiences and strengths.
Writing Tips:
- Tailor the summary to the internship position you're applying for, emphasizing skills and experiences that align with the job requirements.
- Use action words and quantifiable achievements to demonstrate your capabilities and accomplishments.
- Keep it concise and focused, highlighting your most impressive qualifications and what makes you unique.
Sample resume summary for an internship:
"Results-driven marketing student with a passion for digital media and content creation. Proven ability to conceptualize and execute innovative marketing campaigns, leveraging social media platforms to drive engagement and brand awareness. Seeking an internship opportunity to apply my creative skills and strategic mindset in a dynamic marketing environment."
Objective for an internship resume
A resume objective is a brief statement that outlines your career goals and conveys your enthusiasm for the opportunity. It's especially useful for students, recent graduates, or those transitioning into a new field who may not have extensive work experience.
Writing Tips:
- Customize the objective for each internship application, highlighting your interest in the specific role and company.
- Focus on what you can offer the employer and how the internship will help you achieve your professional goals.
- Keep it short and impactful, capturing the recruiter's attention from the start.
Internship resume objective sample:
"Driven computer science student eager to gain hands-on experience in software development through an internship position. Proficient in coding languages such as Java and Python, with a strong foundation in algorithms and problem-solving. Excited to apply my technical skills and collaborate with a team of industry professionals to tackle real-world challenges."
By incorporating a well-crafted summary or objective into your resume for an internship, you can effectively introduce yourself to potential employers and convey your enthusiasm, qualifications, and readiness to contribute to their organization.
Education
Since interns are students or recent graduates, their academic background is often the primary qualification they can offer. Place the "Education" section near the top of your internship resume to allow prospective employers to quickly assess your credentials.
Academic information should be listed in reverse chronological order. Start with the most recent degree or certification you've earned (or are in the process of completing).
Include the following details for each entry:
- Degree. Specify the degree you are pursuing or have obtained (e.g., Bachelor of Science).
- Major/Field of Study. Highlight your area of specialization or concentration.
- Institution. Provide the name of the college or university you are studying at.
- Location. Include the city and state (or country) where the institution is located.
- Graduation Date. Indicate the month and year you expect to graduate if you are still pursuing your degree.
- GPA (Optional). Consider writing your GPA if it's above 3.50 or if the employer specifically requests it.
- Certifications or training programs that helped you enhance your qualifications for the internship will also be beneficial to include.
If you lack significant work experience or if your coursework is particularly relevant to the internship, you can create a subsection listing relevant courses. Focus on courses that demonstrate your skills or knowledge related to the position you're applying.
If you have received any academic awards or scholarships, incorporate them into your intern resume as well. They highlight your academic achievements and demonstrate your dedication to excellence.
For example:
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science | Virginia State University (Petersburg, VA)
- Expected graduation date: May 2025
- Current GPA: 3.95
- Selected coursework: Introduction to Programming; Data Structure; Applied Algorithms; Principles of Database Management Systems
- Undergraduate Symposium Participant (2022) with a presentation "Research on Integration of 5G with Analytics and Artificial Intelligence"
Certifications
- CompTIA A+ | May 2024
- Google Certificate in Data Analytics | January 2024
In most cases, it's not necessary to list your high school information on an internship resume, especially if you have completed some level of higher education. However, if you achieved notable academic honors during that time, you might consider briefly mentioning them.
By following these guidelines, you can effectively position yourself as a strong candidate for the role.
Experience
When in the process of constructing your resume for an internship for the first time, you may not possess any work experience yet. However, you can list any volunteering activities you have done or campus involvement initiatives you are a part of.
Each experience offers unique opportunities for growth. Let's see how to articulate your engagements to demonstrate your readiness for taking on an internship position.
If you're active in your community and have a variety of involvements, focus on internships, part-time jobs, volunteer work, or extracurricular activities that demonstrate skills and knowledge sought by the employer.
For each position, provide the following details:
- Job Title. Specify the position or role you held.
- Organization Name. Provide the name of the company or institution where you worked.
- Location. Include the city and state (or country) where the organization is located.
- Dates of Employment. Indicate the start and end dates of your commitment (month and year).
- Key Responsibilities. Use bullet points to outline the tasks, projects, and responsibilities you undertook in the role.
- Achievements and Impact. Whenever possible, quantify your achievements to show the impact of your contributions.
If you don't have direct work experience in the field of the internship, emphasize other roles where you gained relevant skills that are applicable to the position you're currently applying.
Keep your descriptions concise and specific, focusing on the most relevant details. Avoid vague language and provide concrete examples to support your claims.
Example 1:
Resident Assistant at Housing & Residence Life, DePaul University (Chicago, IL)
August 2023 - Present
- Overseeing a vibrant community of 50 students within a residential hall.
- Spearheading the development and management of a comprehensive monthly budget for various events and activities, fostering a vibrant and inclusive living environment.
- Mediating conflicts and providing support to residents, fostering a positive and harmonious living environment.
Research Assistant at Marketing Department, DePaul University (Chicago, IL)
January 2023 - May 2023
- Conducted in-depth research on "The determinants of customer satisfaction among young adults".
- Collaborated closely with esteemed professors to facilitate classroom instruction and meticulously evaluated student assignments.
- Assisted in the preparation and presentation of research findings at academic conferences.
Volunteer, Humane Society of Chicago
October 2022 - Present
- Regularly contribute to the adoption process, providing assistance and support to potential adopters every weekend (Friday - Sunday).
- Facilitate the successful execution of various events, including Dog Yoga, Petsense Adoption Day, and Rock & Rescue.
With the help of these guidelines, you can effectively demonstrate your qualifications and suitability for the internship role.
Skills to put on resume for internship
Including both soft and hard skills on your internship resume is highly recommended as it provides a comprehensive overview of your capabilities. Let's see both categories in more detail.
Hard skills are technical abilities that are acquired through education or experience. They empower an individual to complete particular tasks in their field of study or profession.
Below are examples of hard skills for a few professions.
Software Engineering:
- Proficiency in programming languages like Java or Python
- Knowledge of Agile or Scrum methodologies
- Familiarity with Git for version control
- Experience with web development frameworks
- Understanding of databases and SQL
- Ability to troubleshoot software applications
- Knowledge of software testing processes
- Familiarity with cloud computing platforms
- Experience with mobile app development
- Understanding of algorithms and data structures
Architecture:
- Proficiency in AutoCAD or Revit
- Knowledge of building codes and regulations
- Ability to create architectural drawings
- Experience with 3D modeling software
- Understanding of sustainable design principles
- Familiarity with building information modeling (BIM)
- Ability to conduct site analysis
- Understanding of structural engineering concepts
- Experience with project management
- Knowledge of construction materials
Nursing:
- Proficiency in patient assessment
- Knowledge of medical terminology
- Ability to perform clinical procedures
- Understanding of electronic health records
- Experience with patient education
- Knowledge of infection control practices
- Ability to collaborate with healthcare teams
- Familiarity with medical equipment
- Experience with patient monitoring
- Understanding of healthcare laws
Graphic Design:
- Proficiency in Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign
- Knowledge of typography and color theory
- Ability to create visual concepts for various media
- Experience with digital illustration
- Understanding of branding design
- Familiarity with UI/UX design principles
- Ability to create and manipulate vector graphics
- Knowledge of print production processes
- Experience with motion graphics
- Understanding of web design principles
Soft skills are interpersonal attributes and personal qualities that enable individuals to interact effectively and harmoniously with other people. They are transferable and can be earned on various occasions - at work, at school, through sports, etc.
Internship resume - examples of soft skills:
- Communication
- Teamwork
- Collaboration
- Problem-solving
- Decision-making
- Time-management
- Leadership
- Empathy
- Adaptability
- Stress-management
- Facilitation
- Persuasion
- Conflict resolution
- Critical thinking
- Creativity
- Emotional intelligence
- Resilience
- Professionalism
When constructing an internship resume, start by listing your most relevant hard skills first. Then, follow up with any soft skills you possess that could be helpful in the role.
It is paramount to utilize job-related expressions when describing your skills so hiring managers can quickly identify what you are capable of doing.
Additional resume sections
These supplementary details can help you distinguish yourself from other candidates. If there is anything else you wish to share that was not mentioned before, you can still include it in your resume for the internship.
| Resume Section | Description |
|---|---|
| Hobbies | Sharing personal interests reveals your activities outside of work and school. This offers to hire managers a greater perception of who you are as a person. |
| Courses | Taken classes illustrate extra knowledge or skills you may have acquired outside of formal education. This helps recruiters evaluate your skillset and knowledge. |
| Projects | Highlight any relevant projects you have completed, either independently or as part of coursework or extracurricular activities. |
| References | Recommendation section offers recruiters a chance to contact someone who can confirm what you have stated on the application. |
| Languages | It is advantageous to note languages on a resume for an internship. Being bilingual or multilingual can be beneficial for communication in languages other than English. |
| Awards | Incorporating awards into your resume demonstrates triumphs or acknowledgments you have obtained throughout your academic career or professional life. This enables recruiters to estimate how well you would perform in the new role. |
Think about what is something special about you: analytical work performed, participation in conferences, and anything else you find relevant to share on the internship resume.
Builder recommendation
If you are unsure of where to begin your internship resume composing, consider using an online builder. Resume Trick offers a wide range of ready-made resume templates to choose from.
Starting from an internship resume template is the easiest way to produce a job-winning document. You simply need to fill in the pre-made layout with your information to make a unique professionally-looking resume.
Benefits of leveraging an online resume creator:
- It saves time with pre-formatted sections, letting you focus on content creation.
- Customizable options ensure your resume reflects your personal style.
- Consistency in formatting throughout the resume gives it a polished look.
- Thanks to the web-based nature of the builder, you can work on your resume on the go.
Give it a try and see how the internship hunting will become easy and enjoyable!
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How to write a cover letter for an internship
While compiling an internship cover letter with no experience can be a daunting task, with some thought and preparation, you can craft an impactful document that will help you secure the job of your dreams.
Here are the steps to a great supporting letter:
- Research the Company. Understand the company's values, culture, and what will be expected from you if you get the job.
- Personalize Your Letter. Address it to the hiring manager if possible, and tailor the content to match the internship and company.
- Introduction. Start with a compelling opening paragraph that grabs the reader's attention and mentions the position you're applying for.
- Highlight Your Skills. Discuss relevant experiences, skills, and achievements that make you a strong candidate for the internship.
- Showcase Your Passion. Demonstrate your enthusiasm for the company and the internship role by explaining why you're interested.
- Conclude Strongly. End with a confident closing statement expressing your eagerness to discuss the opportunity further and thanking the reader for their time.
For a more detailed guide, check out our article on tips and tricks for successful internship cover letter writing.
Cover letter example to support a resume for an internship with no experience:
Dear Ms. Johnson,
I am writing to express my interest in the Engineering Internship position advertised on LinkedIn. As a junior majoring in Mechanical Engineering at Texas Tech University, I am eager to gain practical experience and contribute to Tech Innovations Inc.'s engineering team.
While I may not have prior professional experience in the field, I have developed a strong foundation in engineering principles and technical skills through my coursework and extracurricular activities.
For instance, my coursework in Thermodynamics and Fluid Mechanics has equipped me with a solid understanding of fundamental engineering concepts. Additionally, I have participated in the Texas Tech Engineering Club where I gained hands-on experience with CAD software and participated in design competitions.
I am particularly drawn to Tech Innovations Inc. because of its reputation for innovative engineering solutions and commitment to sustainability. I am excited about the opportunity to learn from your team of experienced engineers and contribute to impactful projects that align with my career goals to specialize in renewable energy systems.
I am confident that my passion for engineering and willingness to learn will make me a valuable addition to your team. I am enthusiastic about the possibility of contributing to Tech Innovations Inc. and am available for an interview at your earliest convenience.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my skills and experiences align with the internship role further.
Sincerely,
Connie McConnell
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Proofreading and spellchecking your internship resume and cover letter is critical to leaving a good first impression.
Well-crafted application papers bring attention to your candidacy. Those papers with errors in spelling, grammar, punctuation, or formatting can be a major turn-off to employers.
When completing final edits, here is a list of tips:
- Read your paper out loud to identify any awkward phrasing or errors in grammar and punctuation.
- Ask another person to read it to get another perspective and catch any mistakes you might have missed.
- Take a break between writing and proofreading to give yourself time to rest.
- Use a spellchecker or grammar tool to catch any errors that may have slipped through the cracks.
All these steps will guarantee that your internship resume and supporting letter are error-free and present you in the best possible light.
Conclusion
Putting together a resume for an internship could be intimidating at first. However, it does not have to. Follow the above advice and land an interview for your dream job!
To make the writing process easier, use the online resume builder. It will guarantee that all of the important details are included in a professional format.
Do not wait until the last minute - start compiling your intern resume today!
