Let’s be real: summer break is not just about sunbathing in the park or binge-watching yet another Netflix series. (Okay, maybe a little of that.) But if you’re looking to give your future a head start—and maybe figure out what you don’t want to do with your life—an internship can be a total game-changer.

Now, I know what you're thinking: “Finding an internship sounds like a full-time job.” And yeah, sometimes it kinda is. But don't worry—I’ve got your back. Let’s break it down step by step so you can land a great internship without spiraling into chaos.

1. Start With What You Care About

Before you dive into applications, take a minute to ask yourself:
What actually interests me?
You don’t need to have your whole life mapped out. But if you love animals, maybe look at roles with animal shelters or zoos. Into fashion? Retail brands often have summer schemes. Want to try out marketing? Startups are always looking for help with social media.

👉 Tip: Think of the internship like trying on a pair of shoes—you’re just seeing if it fits.

2. Use the Internet, but Be Smart About It

Yes, job boards can feel like black holes. But some websites are goldmines when you're trying to find internship in UK that actually matches your vibe. Start with these:

• RateMyPlacement.co.uk – full of honest student reviews and listings

• Milkround.com – great for both internships and grad schemes

• Prospects.ac.uk – excellent filtering options by location and industry

• Indeed.co.uk – a bit of a mixed bag, but worth a scroll

• LinkedIn – not just for corporate types; many smaller businesses post there too

• Internwise.co.uk – specifically focused on internships and placements for students and recent grads across the UK

Internwise.co.uk is especially handy because it's tailored for early-career folks—so you're not competing with people who have 10 years of experience. It’s also got a nice mix of roles from small companies to more established names.

Also, don’t be afraid to slide into inboxes. If there’s a company you admire, send them a short, enthusiastic email asking about summer opportunities. Honestly, showing initiative can go a long way.

3. Tap Into Your Real-Life Network

You might not think you know anyone, but let’s zoom out for a second.

• Parents’ friends? Ask them.

• Your uni’s career service? USE IT.

• That lecturer who actually knows your name? Talk to them.

• Your cool older cousin who’s working in tech? Yep. Ask.

People like helping students—it makes them feel wise and generous. Plus, a personal connection can make you stand out way more than a cold application.

4. Polish That CV (But Keep It Real)

You don’t need a 3-page resume listing every club you’ve ever joined. Just keep it clean, clear, and focused on what matters.

What to include:

• A short intro about you

• Education (don’t forget coursework or projects!)

• Any part-time jobs (yes, your Saturday job counts!)

• Volunteer work

• Skills (like Canva, Excel, or even managing a TikTok account)

And please—for the love of all things good—proofread it. Or better yet, get a friend to look it over. Typos are the silent killers of opportunity.

5. Apply Early, But Keep Applying

Some big companies close apps in January for summer roles. (I know. Cruel.) But many smaller companies don’t advertise until closer to June or July.

Don’t panic if it’s already late spring. Focus on places that don’t have set deadlines. Or offer to help short-term or part-time—it still counts as experience.

👉 Pro tip: Don’t put all your eggs in one basket. Apply to 10–15 places if you can.

6. Ace the Interview by Being Yourself

No one expects you to be perfect. If they’re inviting you to interview, they already think you’re capable—they just want to see if you’re a good fit.

• Be on time (early, if possible)

• Dress smart but comfy (you don’t need a 3-piece suit)

• Do a little research on the company

• Prepare one or two actual questions to ask them

And if they ask, “Why do you want this internship?”—please don’t say “because I need experience.” Instead, try:
"I’m curious about [industry] and excited to learn from a team like yours."

Final Thoughts: It’s OK If You Don’t Land the Dream Internship

Listen—some people get fancy internships in London offices with cold brew on tap. Others spend their summer doing admin work in a small local company. And guess what? Both paths are valid.

Even if you don’t get an internship at all, it’s not the end of the world. There are still ways to grow—volunteer, take an online course, start a project, or just reflect on what you want.

The main thing is this: You’re showing up, trying things, and learning. And that, my friend, is more valuable than any job title.

Now go out there and make your summer count.
And hey—don’t forget the sunscreen. ☀️