On Friday, February 9th, the Center for Career Education, First-in-Family programs, and First-Generation Low-Income Partnership (FLIP) co-hosted a workshop for first-generation college students focused on the internship search.

Skills Employers Want to See on a Resume 

The conversation began with a discussion of the skills employers look for on resumes and how students are building those skills both on and off campus. According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) annual employer survey, “ability to work on a team”, “problem-solving”, “written and oral communication”, “strong work ethic”, and “leadership” topped the list this past year.

Internship Search Should Begin With Self-Reflection 

Students were encouraged to reflect on their past work, leadership, academic, and community experiences as well as the skills built as first-generation college students navigating Columbia. They were then able to begin identifying the skills they have that employers are looking for and gain a better understanding of what experiences to highlight as they begin their search. A key take-away from this portion of the session was that an internship search should begin with individual reflection and self-assessment which can then help to focus one’s internship search. Presenters also emphasized that counselors at CCE are available to help with that reflection and assessment.

You’re Not Alone During Your Search: CCE Can Help 

Counselors discussed the numerous resources available at the Center for Career Education, Columbia, and externally that students can utilize in their search.

CCE has resources to help students:

NEXT STEPS

Meet with a career counselor by scheduling a 30-minute appointment on LionSHARE or drop by our Quick Questions walk-in hours every Monday – Friday from 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. to talk about creating a plan for your own internship search!