Since I’ve recently been applying to and interviewing with various nonprofits for a summer internship related to law & human rights, I’ve decided to share some tips for other undergraduates who are interested in getting into the nonprofit field.
1. Don’t wait for nonprofits to come to you — you have to go to them.
This is not i-banking or consulting, where there are constant on campus presentations, career fairs, and interviews. Many nonprofits don’t have the capacity to advertise or recruit on your campus. Thus, browsing through your Career Center job listings isn’t going to do much. Sure, your Career Center will have a few nonprofit jobs, but if you really want to find something you love, you need a lot more choices. This means you have to take the initiative to research on your own the top organizations in your field. Check out websites like idealist.org for comprehensive listings, as well as helpful guides on working in the nonprofit sector. Read this great post at SchizoFrenetic with websites and resources for the nonprofit job hunt. Find nonprofits you like and go directly to their website. I found most of my summer internship possibilities by just going to organizations’ websites and checking their online job postings.
2. Nonprofit application deadlines are usually later – but don’t wait.
Application deadlines for nonprofits are generally between February and May. BUT – the earlier you apply the better! Sit down during your winter break and make a list of internships you want to apply for. Apply in January and February. This is because 1) employers will see that you are enthusiastic about applying, 2) many deadlines are rolling so you want to get your application in first, 3) you can find an internship faster and finalize your plans, and 4) if you start the process early you might find one or two positions you like with an early deadline – in which case you are in good shape to apply for them ASAP.
3. In cover letters and interviews, emphasize your passion.
Nonprofits want people who are genuinely passionate about the work they do. It’s not enough to be highly skilled – you have to be passionate about the organization’s mission, vision, program areas, and general work. Your cover letter’s your chance to show this. Tailor your cover letter to every position and emphasize that you are passionate about the organization’s mission; describe how your goals align with the field and show that you understand the nonprofit’s work. Likewise, in an interview show your excitement about the organization.
4. Do your homework.
Before the interview, make sure you research the organization and know their policies, viewpoints, and programs. In an interview with a women’s rights organization I was asked about my opinion on prostitution! If I had said the wrong thing, I would have gone against much of the organization’s work and ideology. So know what you’re talking about and know what you’re getting into – it will serve you well.
5. During the interview, ask questions.
Recruiters say the biggest mistake made during interviews is to not ask questions. After the interviewer finishes asking you questions, he or she will usually ask if you have any questions for them. It’s a huge mistake to say no. So make sure you come prepared with a list of intelligent questions. And even better, weave some questions into your interview – don’t let it become a one-way Q&A session. Interviews should be conversations, so make sure to feel comfortable and make your interviewer feel comfortable as well. You should be finding out what you need to know about the organization and your position. It’s should be a mutually beneficial exchange.
6. Expect an unpaid internship, but do it anyway. Try to get a summer internship grant or funding through your university.
You probably know already – but working in nonprofits is not, well, profitable. But you know what? You should still take an unpaid internship: you’ll gain significant experience, networking skills, and an insight into potential career paths. Moreover, many nonprofits – especially smaller ones – rely on interns to do a lot of substantial work, so you will really have the opportunity to get your hands dirty.
Since you won’t be able to pay even your daily expenses if you plan on moving to a new city or country for your summer job, search for funding. Many universities have some sort of summer grant programs for students taking unpaid internships. Seek out these opportunities and talk to your advisers about them. If this isn’t possible, make sure you’re ready to either pay out of your pocket or to take a part-time job to pay the bills.
7. Start a blog. Writing about issues relevant to your interest and field.
Starting a blog taught me so much about human rights and international justice issues. Writing here has definitely forced me to keep up to date with the latest news and has helped me connect to others with similar interests. So start a blog because you will learn much more about what you’re interested in. You will create a personal brand. You will network with like-minded individuals, have discussions and debates, and get valuable career tips from others. An employer might google you, and when you brand yourself you can make sure they see the best of you – your personality and passion, which just can’t be conveyed through a page long resume.
8. Don’t expect a full-time job offer afterwards.
Many students who enter more traditional fields can expect their internship to eventually lead to a job offer after graduation. But in nonprofits, there is no such guarantee. That being said, make the most out of your summer experience. You will come away with valuable experience and perhaps more importantly, contacts who can help you find your next job!
Please drop me a comment if you can think of any other helpful tips for students! And if you liked this post, please subscribe for free to receive updates!
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