How to Write a Resume for an Internship: A Step-by-Step Guide (With Examples)

Are you a student or recent graduate looking to land your dream internship?

A resume that highlights your skills and experiences is essential to stand out in a competitive job market. This step-by-step guide on how to write a resume for an internship will help you create a compelling document that will catch the eye of potential employers.

Using a resume template specific to internships, you can showcase your qualifications professionally and organized. I

In this article, we will provide tips on how to write an internship resume, including a resume example to guide you through the process. From crafting a strong resume objective to highlighting your achievements as an intern, we will cover everything you need to know to create a standout intern resume. 

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The Purpose Of A Resume For An Internship

 A resume for an internship serves as a snapshot of your qualifications, experiences, and skills to potential employers.

It is a crucial tool that can make or break your chances of securing an internship.

The purpose of a resume is to showcase your relevant academic achievements, extracurricular activities, work experience, and any other accomplishments that demonstrate your suitability for the internship position. 

It allows recruiters to quickly assess whether you have the qualifications and qualities they seek in an intern.

A well-crafted resume can help you stand out from other applicants and increase your chances of being selected for an interview.

Step 1: Research And Tailor Your Resume To The Internship Position

 When applying for an internship, it is crucial to research the company and understand the position’s specific requirements.

Tailoring your resume to match the internship job description can greatly increase your chances of getting noticed by recruiters.

Start by identifying key skills and experiences that align with the internship role, then highlight them prominently on your resume. Use keywords from the job posting to show you have the relevant qualifications. 

Additionally, emphasize any relevant coursework, projects, or extracurricular activities that demonstrate your suitability for the position. 

Step 2: Choose the Best Format for Your Intern Resume 

The first step is to select the appropriate resume format. There are three common formats: reverse-chronological, functional, and combination.

For internships, the reverse-chronological format is often the best choice. It chronologically lists your work experience and achievements, highlighting your most recent accomplishments. 

This format is ideal for showcasing your practical skills and experiences relevant to the internship.

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Here is an example of a reverse-chronological resume format:

Here is an example of a functional resume format:

Here is an example of a combination resume format:

Step 3: Structure Your Resume For Maximum Impact 

When structuring your resume for an internship, it’s important to consider how you can make the most impact in a limited space.

You can begin with a strong opening statement highlighting your skills and enthusiasm for the internship role.

Follow this with a section detailing your relevant experience, focusing on any previous internships, volunteer work, or extracurricular activities demonstrating your qualifications. 

Be sure to include specific examples of projects or responsibilities that showcase your abilities.

Additionally, highlight any relevant coursework or skills directly applicable to the internship position.

Finally, conclude with a summary of your education and any additional achievements that support your candidacy. 

Step 4: Start with a Strong Header

Begin your resume with a clear and concise header that includes your name, phone number, email address, and any relevant links, such as your LinkedIn profile or personal website. Ensure your name stands out with a larger font size or bold text. For example:

[Your Name]
[Phone Number]
[Email Address]
[LinkedIn Profile URL]

Step 5: Craft a Compelling Objective or Summary Statement

The objective or summary statement is a concise paragraph that outlines your career goals and highlights your skills and experiences relevant to the internship.

It should be tailored to the specific internship you’re applying for. For example:

“Motivated college student seeking a summer internship in marketing to apply my communication and creative skills. Possess strong writing abilities, social media expertise, and a passion for digital trends.”

This section should be concise yet impactful, giving potential employers a snapshot of who you are and what you can bring. 

Your summary should highlight your key skills, experiences, and career goals in a way that sets you apart from other candidates.

It should also demonstrate your passion and enthusiasm for the industry or field you are seeking an internship. 

By crafting a compelling summary or objective statement, you can grab the attention of employers and make a strong first impression that will encourage them to continue reading your resume.

Step 6: Detail Your Education and Coursework

The education section is crucial, even if you’re still pursuing your degree. Include your degree or expected graduation date, major(s), minor(s), and relevant coursework or certifications. For instance:

Education
Bachelor of Arts in Communication, Expected Graduation: May 2024
Major: Communication
Minor: Digital Media
Relevant Coursework: Social Media Marketing, Web Design, Public Relations

When you include education and coursework on your resume for an internship, it’s important to highlight relevant academic achievements that show your qualifications for the position.

List your current educational institution, degree program, and expected graduation date.

Include any honors or awards you have received and relevant coursework that aligns with the internship role.

Be sure to mention any specialized skills or knowledge you have gained through your coursework that would be valuable to the internship. 

Additionally, consider including any relevant projects or research experiences that showcase your abilities and commitment to your field of study. 

Step 7: Highlight Your Work Experience and Relevant Skills

The work experience section is where you showcase your practical skills and achievements.

Focus on experiences relevant to the internship, such as summer jobs, volunteer work, or extracurricular activities. Include a list of bullet points under each position detailing your responsibilities and accomplishments. For example:

Social Media Intern, ABC Company (Summer 2022)

• Managed social media content and campaigns, increasing engagement by 20%
• Collaborated with the marketing team to develop a digital strategy, resulting in a 15% increase in online sales
• Utilized analytics tools to track and analyze social media performance

When writing a resume for an internship, it is crucial to highlight relevant skills and experience that align with the position’s specific requirements. 

Start by carefully reading the internship job description to identify key skills and qualifications sought by the employer. Then, showcase your relevant experiences, such as coursework, projects, or volunteer work, demonstrating your ability to excel in the role. 

Additionally, emphasize any transferable skills you possess that can be applied to the internship, such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and leadership abilities. 

Step 8: Showcase Your Soft Skills

Soft skills, such as communication, teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving, are highly valued by employers. Include a dedicated section to highlight these abilities. For instance:

Soft Skills

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Strong leadership and team management abilities
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and Google Workspace
• Creative problem-solving and analytical capabilities

Step 9: Include Relevant Certifications and Awards

Certifications and awards demonstrate your commitment to professional development and can set you apart from other candidates.

Include any relevant certifications, licenses, or awards you’ve earned. For example:

Certifications and Awards

• Certified Social Media Marketing Associate
• Digital Marketing Certification from ABC Institute
• Dean’s List for Academic Excellence

Step 10: Showcase Extracurricular Activities And Volunteer Work 

When writing a resume for an internship, it’s important to showcase your extracurricular activities and volunteer work.

These experiences can demonstrate your leadership skills, teamwork abilities, and commitment to serving others. Include any relevant clubs, organizations, or sports teams you have been involved in and any volunteer work you have done in your community.

Highlight specific achievements or responsibilities in these roles to show how they have helped you develop valuable skills transferable to the internship position you are applying for. 

Employers often value candidates who are well-rounded and involved outside of their academic studies, so make sure to include these experiences on your resume.

Step 11: Proofread and Edit Your Resume for Error

Before submitting your resume, take the time to proofread it thoroughly.

Proofreading and editing your resume for errors is a crucial step in the application process for an internship.

After you have written your resume, carefully review it for any spelling or grammatical mistakes. 

Look out for inconsistencies in formatting, such as inconsistent bullet points or font sizes. It can be helpful to have someone else read through your resume as well, as they may catch errors you may have missed. 

Additionally, double-check that all of your contact information is accurate and up-to-date. 

Ask a friend or mentor to review your resume and provide feedback. A fresh pair of eyes can help catch any errors or areas for improvement.

Internship Resume Examples

Marketing intern resume

Software engineer intern resume

Legal intern resume

Tax intern resume

Summer internship resume

Internship resume template (text format)

Get Help With Your Internship Resume Writing

Have you started applying for your first internship but are struggling with crafting an effective resume? Don’t worry—we are here to help! 

Our certified professional resume writers specialize in creating the perfect resumes for college students seeking internships. With our expertise, we can make sure that your resume stands out among the competition.

Place your order today by clicking the ORDER NOW button above to get our expert writing help. Whether you need a resume sample, internship cover letter, or assistance with the education section of your resume, we have you covered.

Customize your resume to fit the specific internship description you’re applying for and increase your chances of landing your perfect internship.

Final Thoughts on How to Write a Resume for an Internship

Creating a compelling resume for an internship involves showcasing your skills, experiences, and potential.

Remember to tailor your resume to the internship you’re applying for, highlighting the most relevant qualifications and experiences.

With a well-crafted resume, you’ll be one step closer to landing that dream internship opportunity!

Frequently Asked Questions about Resumes for Internships

Isabella Robertson

I am dedicated to creating engaging blog posts that provide valuable insights and advice to help students excel in their studies. From study tips to time management strategies, my goal is to empower students to reach their full potential.