6 tips for first-generation college students searching for internships or other early career jobs

We’ve gathered six invaluable tips from tech content reviewers, founders, and others to help first-generation college and university students navigate the challenging waters of early career employment. These insights range from planning early and gaining hands-on experience to leveraging social media for job search.

Plan Early and Gain Hands-On Experience

A tip for students in their early career stage is to plan early. Start looking for internship opportunities six to eight months in advance. 

If currently in the final year of university, it is recommended to look for an internship or assistant role in the field. In fact, there are many remote job portals that offer part-time job roles or even one to three months of internship work.

This will not only provide hands-on experience in the field but also improve the resume.

The primary goal for students in their early career stage shouldn’t just be about securing a job but also getting new opportunities to deeply learn about their chosen field that textbooks can’t capture.

If you’re going to graduate from university soon, plan your professional career journey as early as possible.

Shrabana Saha, Tech Content Reviewer, 10Pie

Expand Job Search and Leverage Skills

I think that first-generation college and university students already do well when looking for work. They find a job they like the look of and let their degree do the talking. However, I also think it can be valuable to look in different places. There are so many businesses that do not have any job listings but would be willing to take people on for an internship. All you have to do is ask around and see if people are willing. 

However, I think that it is very valuable to expand your search to other industries. I know many people who work in travel blogging who are fully able to make use of their English degrees or their degrees in Cultural Studies, despite their university courses pushing them in a different direction. Your degree, in my opinion, should be used to show all of the skills you have learned that you are able to apply to a variety of situations, not just one niche situation.

Aiden Higgins, Senior Editor and Writer, The Broke Backpacker 

Leverage Uniqueness and Seek Mentorship

One key tip for first-generation college/university students searching for an internship, a first job after graduation, or other early career employment opportunities is to leverage your unique background and experiences as a strength. Your journey as a first-generation student has likely equipped you with resilience, determination, and a diverse perspective that can set you apart in the job market. 

Use your personal narrative to craft a compelling story that highlights your ability to adapt, overcome challenges, and bring fresh insights to the table. Additionally, seek out mentorship and networking opportunities, as connecting with professionals who understand your journey can provide valuable guidance and support as you navigate your early career steps.

Jim Campbell, Owner, Honeymoons

Network Within Your Community

One of the best ways to find an internship, a first job after graduation, or other early-career employment opportunities is to network within your community. Many people know of opportunities that are not advertised, and you can find them through networking events, career fairs, and community organizations. 

By networking within your community, you can find internships and other early-career opportunities that are a good fit for you.

Matthew Ramirez, Co-Founder, USMLE Test Prep

Utilize Your School’s Career Services

A crucial tip for first-generation college/university students seeking early-career opportunities is to proactively leverage your school’s career services and networking resources. Attend career fairs, workshops, and networking events to build connections with employers and industry professionals. 

These resources can provide valuable guidance, job leads, and insights that can enhance your job search and increase your chances of landing internships or early-career roles aligned with your goals.

Brian Clark, Founder and CEO, United Medical Education

Use Social Media for Job Search

If you’re a first-generation student looking for an employment opportunity, use social media to your advantage. In terms of accessibility, industry professionals can be contacted with ease. The reply feature enables qualified individuals to communicate with their potential employers. 

There are platforms like LinkedIn and X that are ideal for this purpose. It’s important not to come off as intrusive. Also, one must always maintain respect. By doing so, you can increase your chances of landing your dream job. Social media can be a powerful tool in one’s search for career employment opportunities.

Rayner Teo, Founder, TradingWithRayner