Prepare and Pursue Experience
Whether you are seeking experience through on-campus employment or an internship or trying to figure out how to approach a search for that first big job, we are here to help through appointments and resources.
Here are several ways to pursue experience
On-Campus Jobs
Off-Campus Jobs
Off-Campus Jobs
Find off-campus employment curated by the Career Resource Center in Handshake.
Private Party Job Listings
Find opportunities to help local families and earn extra income while in school.
Internships
Internship Opportunities
Make an Appointment in Handshake with the Career Resource Center to walk you through the internship search, review your resume or cover letter, or provide interview preparation.
Internships provide a front row seat to evaluate careers and the working world. They offer the opportunity to gain invaluable professional experience and develop the skills necessary to thrive in the workplace.
Employers responding to NACE's Job Outlook 2024 survey indicate that “internship experience is the top factor they consider when deciding between two otherwise equally qualified candidates.”
Landing an internship is a 7-step process
1.
Define your goal.
Identify areas of interest and types of experience you want.
2.
Gather options & Network.
Start your search with Handshake and LinkedIn. It’s wise to consider multiple options related to your interests. Practice your networking skills by utilizing Westmont’s Alumni Network on LinkedIn, and talking with others (professionals you know, family, family friends) to explore internship options and inform your application process.
3.
Prepare.
Update and tailor your resume and cover letter for each internship opportunity. Ensure your LinkedIn profile is up to date.
4.
Apply.
Submit your customized resume, cover letter and materials as requested by the internship site.
5.
Interview.
If you have interviews scheduled, prepare by learning about the company or organization and the position. Your familiarity with the company and position will help you answer interview questions and help make a great impression.
6.
Say Thank You.
You’ve just sought an opportunity to learn from others and gain experience. Follow up with a thank you note right after the interview. A thank you via email is just fine.
7.
You Landed an Internship!
Complete the ALAF. Whether you want academic credit for your internship or not, complete an online Applied Learning Agreement Form (ALAF). This form requires internship site contact information. Notify your internship site supervisor that this form will be sent to them for approval. The ALAF must be reviewed and approved by the internship site supervisor, your internship class instructor, and the Career Resource Center before you begin your internship work.
Internship FAQ
Yes! You must enroll in any “190” class. If your major does not offer a 190 course, you can take the elective APP-190 class provided by the Career Resource Center. This elective class is provided in person in fall and spring, and remotely (video conference) over the summer. You must check with your major academic advisor to confirm whether your internship will qualify for credit within your major. With any internship for academic credit, the internship organization and your duties as an intern must not conflict with Westmont's Mission Statement and Community Life Statement found on the College's Community Commitments page.
In most cases you can receive up to four (4) units of credit for your internship (some majors and programs offer up to eight units). The number of credits is based on a ratio of one (1) credit for every 36 hours worked at your internship (e.g. 2 credit hours requires a minimum of 72 hours worked). NOTE: Your ALAF must be fully approved BEFORE you can begin accruing hours towards your desired number of credits.
All internships for academic credit must be in person. In some cases, remote work may be allowed after a review of the needs of the internship organization and consideration is made for the state in which the internship is located. If you have extenuating personal or academic reasons why you should be allowed to do your internship remotely, you will need pre-approval from your professor before you accept the internship.
Seek internships that will provide you with critical information and insight about a role or industry you’re interested in. An internship should provide professional experience that builds toward your future. While paid internships are preferred, unpaid internships may be just as valuable (just consider the financial impact it may have). Regardless, paid and unpaid internships will prepare you for future employment.
Here are more ways to pursue experience
Undergraduate Research
A hallmark of Westmont’s outstanding undergraduate liberal arts education is providing opportunities for students to conduct significant research with faculty.
Study Abroad Programs
Westmont is unique in that we offer many faculty-led semester-long programs on a rotating schedule along with programs at over 30 affiliate institutions. We encourage students to schedule a study abroad advising appointment in their first semester on campus to see how they can best prepare for an off-campus experience and fulfill GE, major, minor or elective credit.
Attend a Career Event
Career events are valuable opportunities to explore potential job or internship opportunities. Here, you will meet with employers who will provide you with insights into various industries.
Check Handshake for a curated collection of upcoming career events tailored to your interests.
Attend a Networking Event
Attending networking events provides a great opportunity to connect with fellow students and community members. These spaces allow you to engage in discussions about jobs, career paths, and future opportunities.
Visit Handshake to explore a full list of upcoming networking events.
On-Campus Clubs
On-campus cultivate community amongst the Westmont student body. Participate in one of 32 student-led clubs and organizations or start your own to realize your passion.
Are you interested in a career in medicine? Meet with the Pre-Health Club. You can compete with Westmont Wildfire, the Ultimate Frisbee team, or use up some energy with N’Step, the Hip Hop dance team, Salsa Dance or Zumba. If you're a Harry Potter fan, you can join Dumbledore’s Army.
