Expecting Failure

No matter how amazing your application is, the only response you’ll get from most companies is an automated rejection email. Strategies like networking and interview prep can significantly increase your odds for a certain company, but we still recommend that you apply to at least 50 internships to give yourself the best chance of securing a great one.

Before you begin this grueling process, remember one thing: you’re going to fail often. We know it’s frustrating and painful, but that’s just how it is. Don’t take it personally! Every time you get a rejection email, apply for a new internship. If you keep the carousel moving, something is bound to work out!

Be aware that rejection doesn’t mean you aren’t qualified. It could mean any of these things too:

• The company isn’t actually hiring for the role even though they posted it (so annoying, we know) or they are only hiring people with a specific skill set
• The company has already found their interns and reached the quota
• You made a mistake on a technical problem or answered a behavioral question in a way that doesn’t align with the company’s values (both of which happen to everyone)
• Your interviewer was super tough or was having a bad day

And keep in mind that if a company doesn’t think you’re a good fit, you probably wouldn’t have been happy there anyway. Most people end up where they belong. 

How Many Applications Should I Submit?

You might see people online submitting hundreds and hundreds of applications, which we don’t think is necessary. At that point, you won't be able to craft high-quality applications, which we don’t think is a good use of your time.

As a general rule, we’d recommend 50-100 applications in total. However, you can probably get away with only 25 or 30 if you lean hard on networking and have a strong application. Any internship at a well-regarded company (and is somewhat related to your area of interest) is worth an application. Even if the company isn’t quite what you’re looking for in terms of size or industry, you should still apply. The extra assessments and interviews can be great practice for the future, and you might just change your mind about the company as you go through their interview process.

If the 50-100 range seems like a lot, remember that it’s only 5-10 per week throughout the Fall and early Winter. Consistency is key. And if there are only 5 companies you want to work for, you’re going to need to change that mindset because it’s likely that none of them will work out. This internship is just for one summer, so be as flexible as possible with regard to location, company size, and industry.

General Advice

If you find that you’re not hearing back from any companies, try leaning more on connections or networking, as referrals are likely to score you at least a first round interview. Try not to get fixed on a particular company. Passion is good, but obsession is bound to hurt you in the scenario that things don’t work out.