Internships are a crucial part of building a resume. A student who gets real-world experience in his or her career prior to graduation will stand out from the crowd during the job hunt process. Internships are also helpful for people who want to try a new career. Many businesses and organizations offer seasonal and year-round internship programs. We'll look at some industries and companies that are currently recruiting. (For related reading, see Land That Internship!)

TUTORIAL: Financial Careers

Creative Arts
Smithsonian Institute
Interns conduct research and help produce exhibits and programs. There are a variety of paid internships to choose from in the areas of art, history and culture, libraries, archives and preservation, professional services, and science and research. Interns must be at least 16 years old. Other requirements are specific to each internship program.

Nickelodeon Animation Studios
This internship offers hands-on experience, business skills workshops and "executive lunches." Undergraduate juniors and seniors, law school students and recent graduates who are eligible for academic credit may apply. Internships are available in the summer, spring and fall and require a commitment of at least two full days per week for 10 weeks. Students can choose to work in animation production, post production, animation development, media tech services, casting for animation, human resource, business and legal affairs, special events, research and development, or writing/artist fellowship.

Electronic Arts
These paid internships are tailored to students interested in the video game industry. Interns will work on all aspects of game production and have their names listed in the credits of a game. An applicant must meet the requirements of the role for which he or she applies. Options include software engineers, graphic design artists, technical artists, production and game design, and marketing and public relations. (To learn more, read Internships: Find The Best One For You.)

Deutsche Bank
The Analyst Internship program combines classroom study with on the job training and intensive mentoring. Internships are available for students in their final year of study. Applicants choose an internship program in one of several banking areas including asset management, asset finance and leasing, commercial real estate, corporate banking coverage, corporate finance, global transaction banking, markets, group technology and operations, human resources, and risk and private wealth management.

The company offers first-year MBA students with a focus in finance, accounting or economics a chance to gain professional experience in financial management. Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.5, three or more years of corporate work experience, and U.S. citizenship or permanent work authorization. Successful interns will be considered for the full-time AT&T Finance Leadership program which is for MBA students in their final year.

Northwestern Mutual Financial Network
Part-time and full-time internship opportunities abound at this firm. Interns must complete a training period before being allowed to meet with clients independently. Mentors are assigned to each intern to provide support and guidance.

Communication and Social Media
The social media company offers internships in all areas of the business such as account management, legal, security and platform product marketing. Requirements vary by department. Interns enjoy perks such as free breakfast, lunch and dinner.

ABC News
The only paid internship in network news is opened to undergraduates who have completed their sophomore year. Students must have prior internship experience, be available to work at least 16 hours a week and have excellent communication skills. Fall, spring and summer programs are offered in departments such as "20/20," "Good Morning America," "ABC News Radio" and "Primetime."

New York Times Company
These summer and academic-year journalism internships are for college seniors and graduate students. Paid internships are available for reporting, visual journalism, copy editing, social media and digital media. (Find out 5 New Ways To Find A Great Internship.)

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration offers several internship programs for high school, undergraduate and graduate students. Internships are available for fall, spring, summer and year-long intervals. Students must have a minimum 3.0 GPA, be a U.S. Citizen and be at least 16 years old.

Undergraduate and graduate students interested in foreign policy can intern a the Central Intelligence Agency. These paid positions are open to U.S. Citizens with a GPA of at least 3.0. Foreign language skills, previous international residency and military experience make for a strong candidate.

High school, undergraduate and graduate internships are available at the National Security Agency. Opportunities are offered in areas such as human resources, computer science, intelligence analysis and foreign languages. Requirements vary based on program.

The Bottom Line
Internships are available in nearly every field and are the best way to get ahead on your professional career path. Use these real-world work experiences to make connections in your field and gain useful skills. (For related reading, see Business Grads, Land Your Dream Job.)

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