Do you know what you’re doing this summer? It’s never too early to start preparing! The semester will be over before you know it – don’t fall behind. Consider these tips to fight the stress of looming application deadlines and successfully prepare and plan for summer 2011.

Utilize your network.

Don’t know where to begin your search? Ask around. Now is a great time to use the power of the network you’ve worked so hard to establish. Have a conversation with your employer on summer opportunities within the company or ask if they know of any other internships they feel would be a great fit for you. Don’t forget to also talk to your mentors, favorite professors, parents and family friends. The more people who know you’re looking, the more likely someone will know someone with the perfect opportunity.

Also, announcing your search as a status on LinkedIn and Facebook as well as a tweet on Twitter can also be beneficial and actually lead somewhere.  Your network can’t help unless you ask for it.

Investigate.

Although using internship listings like Intern Queen is extremely helpful, I employ my own method of research to. It is more work, but well worth it. First, I make a list of local companies with the following criteria:

-companies I would LOVE to intern for

-companies with great reviews from previous interns

-companies listed as top places to work for in their industry

I then individually visit each website’s “Careers” or “Employment” section to determine if paid summer internships are available. If so, I record all the information necessary for my outline (next tip).

Draw an outline.

It’s key to stay organized. Keep track of all information in a document. I use the following format in chronological order for better management of the applications and their deadlines:

Name of Company
Website
Deadline
Name of Hiring Manager
Address and Phone Number
Internship Description
Qualifications Sought
What are they looking for in an applicant? Extremely helpful to tailor the cover letter and resume.
Application Details
Are recommendation letters, writing samples and transcripts needed? Is there a specific format for the application?

Preparing the applications is the hardest part. Each application will require its own cover letter and tailored resume. Of course, certain material will be interchangeable, but the process is time-consuming nonetheless. I recommend dedicating a weekend for the applications especially if you’re too busy during the school week. Another tip: Make sure to notify the employers or professors who will be writing your recommendation letters well in advance to avoid time conflicts. Try to make this process as stress-free as possible.

Good luck!