How did you prepare for your internship search? What were some of the steps, i.e. fine tuning your resume, interview prep, etc.

I think it's just as difficult to get an internship today than a real job.  Internships at top companies are so competitive -one of the best ways you'll get in is to have a contact who works there.   The key is to talk with as many people as possible and develop an effective network.  Interviewing is also crucial and takes a lot of practice.  Practice with UNH staff, friends, or family - the more comfortable and prepared you are the better you will do.

What three things would you tell your peers they need to do so they find and secure a great internship?

My 3 keys for securing a great internship would be:

1. Find an industry or company that really appeals to you.
2. Talk to as many people in the industry that you can, especially utilizing the UNH alumni network in Wildcat Careers
3. Be persistent and patient, and apply to as many companies that you can, while still reading and learning all you can about the industry.

Talk about the benefits of networking, timely follow-ups, and being proactive in your search.

I read once that there will always be someone better than you and smarter than you, but what you can control and use to your advantage is your network.  It may be different in some industries but most of the jobs in my field, finance, are achieved through effective networking.  Informational interviews are an excellent way to do this.  If you are courteous and professional, most people are happy to share information and talk about their work and give advice.  Especially your friends' parents and UNH alumni or alumni from other organizations.  Find a common denominator, be polite and appreciative of their time, and always send a thank you note.  The only real way to learn about what a person actually does in their career is to ask them about it.  Once you talk to enough people you'll find something that sounds good and pursue it.  Following up is critical because that's often the only way you will end up speaking with the person.  Treat every interview as the first and be enthusiastic and ask good questions.  If you really want to talk to someone, you have to find a way and a time, even if you get blown off or ignored for a month.  Some people may deliberately not answer your first email or call you back just to see how persistent you are. But it's well worth it when they give you real insight and then refer you to 3 more of their colleagues.   

What did you learn from your internship search that you will apply in future job searches?

Finding a job or internship has to be an extra class or job itself.  Pick an industry that you like and find a way to get into it.  There are so many different roads to go, and they may all lead to success, but the sooner you realize what you really like, the better off you'll be.  My two internships have been in the industry that I want to work in, but aren't quite what I want to do, but that is one of the many benefits of internships.  Another thing: unpaid internships are tough, but will obviously help you get a job later on.  Money may seem important now but in the long run it isn't.  Firms will applaud you for it too - which doesn't hurt. 

What is the most valuable part of your internship experience so far? What skills are you learning that you can apply to other internships and jobs?

The best thing was talking to so many people and figuring out what jobs interest me the most within the industry.  Not everyone is cut out for sales and trading, nor is everyone meant to be an actuary, accountant, or financial analyst.  But many skills are transferable, and developing a strong "skill set" is a driver of success.  What matters is that you demonstrate what you actually did or learned from past experiences, and what value you can add to the company.  If you can get a couple or a few solid projects under your belt and be able to talk about them and what you learned, that will be an advantage.  The things you learn from internships are patience, general business or whatever industry knowledge, how to function in a professional setting, project management, time management, multi-tasking, how to generate ideas, work in teams, get up everyday at 6:00 and go to work, possibly navigate your way around a big city...You really have to put yourself out there, once you get in the door talk to everyone you can, especially those in the area that you want to be in.  Take advantage of the phone, LinkedIn, email, but try to meet face to face, which can be much more effective.