Over your three summers as a Harvard College student, you will have time to explore diverse interests—whether studying for credit, engaging in research, or interning at an organization in the U.S. or abroad.
What you choose to do and the order in which you try different options varies from person to person. Some students, especially first-years, may prefer an activity closer to home. Others feel ready to travel to a new city or abroad. Talk to lots of people to get ideas about what might be a good summer experience for you.
Internships
Internships are short-term work and professional learning experiences that are a great opportunity to test-drive a career, develop professional skills, and apply your academic knowledge in real-world settings. They can help you discover what you enjoy—and what you don’t—while giving you valuable experience.
How to Find Internships
- Define your strengths and values to help you find an internship that complements them. Check out this step-by-step approach to determining your strengths and values and integrating them into your internship search.
- Meet with an MCS advisor who can help you explore opportunities and understand all the resources available to you.
- Browse Internship Postings:
- Network: Talking with people who can provide you with information, advice, resources, and possible contacts related to your fields of interest. Develop your connections to learn about opportunities beyond what’s posted on boards. Learn how to expand your network.
- Stay organized. Create a spreadsheet and timeline for yourself to stay organized.
- Cast a wide net. Apply to multiple opportunities throughout the year. Here’s how to have a Plan A, B, and C.
