How to Secure an Internship Before Starting University

Have you just finished school and are waiting to start university? Do you want to learn something new before classes begin? Getting an internship is a smart way to do that.

An internship means working with a company for a short time to learn what they do. You get to watch, help, and sometimes even do small jobs. It’s like getting a sneak peek into a real job. Some internships are paid, but many are not. Still, the experience is very valuable.

In this blog, we will explain step by step how you can get an internship before university starts, even if you have no work experience. Don’t worry — it’s easier than you think!

1. Know What You Like

Before you apply anywhere, think about what you enjoy doing. Do you like writing? Maybe try working with a newspaper or blog. Do you like numbers? Then, a company that works with money or computers might be fun.

Make a list of:

• Your interests (e.g. art, science, business)

• What subjects did you enjoy in school

• What job might you want to try in the future

This list will help you decide which companies or fields to apply to for internships.

2. Build a Simple Resume

Even if you’ve never worked before, you can still make a resume (a short paper that talks about you and your skills).

Here’s what to include:

• Your name and contact details

• Your school name and marks (if they’re good)

• Your hobbies or interests

• Any volunteer work or school projects

• A short paragraph about why you want to do an internship

Keep it simple, neat, and one page long. Ask someone to read it before you send it out.

3. Start Looking Early

The best time to start looking for internships is 2–3 months before your university starts. Many companies get lots of applications, so the earlier you apply, the better your chances.

You can find internships:

• On websites like Seek, Indeed, and Internships.com.au

• On company websites, under the “Careers” page

• By asking your school teachers or career counsellors

• On LinkedIn (if you have an account)

• By messaging local businesses through email

4. Write a Nice Cover Letter

A cover letter is like a short message that goes with your resume. It tells the company why you want the internship and why they should choose you.

Keep it short and friendly. Here's an example:

Hello,

My name is Sarah. I just finished Year 12 and will be starting university in a few months. I am very interested in learning more about your company and would love to help and learn during an internship. I’m hardworking, curious, and eager to try new things.

Thank you for your time.

Kind regards,
Sarah Jones

Even if your name isn’t Sarah, you can change this letter to suit you!

5. Practice Speaking (Just in Case)

If a company wants to meet you, they might ask for a quick chat or an interview. This sounds scary, but it’s usually very simple. They just want to know:

• Why do you want the internship

• What do you want to learn

• If you are polite and willing to work

Practice answering questions with a friend or family member. Be calm, smile, and speak clearly.

6. Try Volunteering First

If you don’t find an internship, that’s okay. You can still learn a lot by volunteering.

Places you can volunteer:

• Local charity shops

• Animal shelters

• Community events

• Libraries

• School holiday camps

Volunteering shows that you are responsible and helpful — and that looks great on your resume!

7. Ask People You Know

Sometimes, the best way to find an internship is to ask someone you already know.

Ask your:

• Parents

• Neighbours

• Family friends

• School teachers

Say something like:
“Hi! I’m looking for an internship before I start university. Do you know anyone who could help me?”

Most people are happy to help students who want to learn.

8. Try Online Internships Too

Not all internships require you to travel. Some can be done online. These are great if you live far from a big city or don’t have transport.

Online internships can include:

• Writing blogs or social media posts

• Helping with data entry

• Creating simple designs or presentations

• Doing research work

Search for “remote internship” or “online internship” on job websites.

9. Be Honest and Curious

When you talk to a company, be honest. Tell them that you’re new, but you want to learn. Companies don’t expect you to know everything — they just want to see that you are ready to try.

Say things like:

• “I’ve never done this before, but I’m excited to learn.”

• “I may ask some questions, I hope that’s okay.”

• “I’m good at listening and following instructions.”

This shows that you are serious and respectful.

10. Don’t Give Up

Sometimes, you may not hear back from companies. That’s normal. Don’t feel bad. Many students apply, and not everyone gets picked. But if you keep trying and learning, you’ll find the right one.

You can also do short online courses while waiting. Websites like Coursera, edx, and FutureLearn offer free lessons in things like business, science, and design. These look great on your resume, too!

Why Internships Before University Are Helpful

• You get real-life experience

• You learn how to talk and work with others

• You understand how offices or shops run

• You feel more confident before university

• You might even make new friends or mentors

Final Thoughts

You don’t need to wait for university to start learning. Getting an internship before university is a smart way to use your time and get ahead. Even if it’s just for a few weeks, it can teach you lessons you won’t forget.

And remember — it’s okay to start small. The most important thing is to try.

If you need help writing your resume, preparing a cover letter, or getting support with university assignments later, you can visit: 👉 getassignment.com.au

We’re here to help students like you learn, grow, and succeed.