Throughout the month of April, CEMB Internship Coordinator, Jamie Stamey, will respond to three questions submitted by students embarking on their internship journey. If you have any questions you would like to see answered, feel free to email Jamie at jamie.stamey@belmont.edu.
Q10: Is there a situation where it’s more about “what you know” rather than “who you know” (skills, education, qualifications)?
A10: In a lot of situations, the answer is yes. But when it comes to internships and entry level positions that require basic skills and a positive attitude, having connections is key. When you graduate, your resume is going to look very similar to the other CEMB graduates you walk across the stage with. So your connections will be key to getting your resume to the top of the pile or even just to learn about opportunities that are available.
Q11: If you are offered a position at more than one internship, what is the best way to decline an offer without burning that bridge? By extending an offer, doesn’t that mean that they refused someone else and were pulling for you to accept? Won’t they be upset and obviously you don’t want anybody in town to be upset with you?
A11: This is an inevitable situation for most of you. But here is the good news. Most internship sponsors are fully aware that you are probably interviewing with multiple companies. You will have to choose one over another, but the way you communicate your decision is what matters. Show gratitude and humility. Thank them profusely. And respond to them as quickly as possible so they are not too late to get their second choice (they aren’t going to decline anyone else until they’ve got a commitment from you). The good thing about internships is most employers don’t lose too much time or resources to conduct the process. That’s going to be different when they are hiring for full-time positions. But remember this: NEVER ACCEPT AN INTERNSHIP AND THEN CHANGE YOUR MIND LATER ON. Even if a “better” opportunity comes along, you have made a commitment and you need to stick with it. That’s the easiest way to burn a bridge.
Q12: Does it give you an advantage if you apply for the internship far in advance of the company’s deadline?
A12: Typically, no. Most sponsors, if they have a specific deadline for applications, probably won’t even being to review applications until that deadline. If it’s an online application process, then it’s probably safe to apply well in advance. But if it’s a situation where you just email the requested documents, it’s very likely your email will get lost if it’s too far in advance. In that situation, apply within ample time, but follow up close to the deadline just to make sure they received your materials.