How to Write an Internship Resume (Examples & Templates)
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Internships help you gain real-world experience, develop industry-specific skills and enhance your professional network, all while exploring potential career paths and boosting your employability.
A well-crafted resume is the key to landing your dream internship. In this guide, we'll walk you through the process of creating an internship resume that impresses hiring managers and sets you apart from the competition.
Get ready to take the first step toward a fulfilling and rewarding internship experience!
How to format an internship resume
Choosing a resume format that effectively highlights your skills and qualifications helps hiring managers see what makes you a great fit for the role. See what your resume should look like for additional formatting guidance from career advice experts.
Explore the three resume formats below to determine which one is right for you. Each one has its own benefits, and the choice of format depends on your individual circumstances, career goals and the requirements of the internship you're applying for.
What to put on a resume for an internship
Explore how to write an internship resume and what information to include to stand out from the competition.
See our guide on what to put on a resume for a detailed description of each section.
Objective statement
Start your resume with a compelling objective statement that highlights your career goals and showcases how your skills and experiences make you an ideal candidate for the internship.
Here is an example resume objective statement for a summer internship resume:
“High school student seeking a summer internship position to gain valuable experience in the field of marketing. A dedicated and responsible individual with a passion for digital marketing and social media, a strong work ethic and a willingness to learn. Aiming to make a positive impact on the company's goals and objectives while gaining practical experience in a professional setting.”
If you have relevant work experience or prior internship experience, you may choose to add a resume summary rather than a resume objective.
A resume summary is a brief statement at the beginning of your resume that summarizes your professional experience, skills and achievements. It provides a quick overview of your qualifications and helps the employer understand your unique value.
Whether you’re making a high school or college internship resume, our professional Resume Builder can help you write a standout resume in a matter of minutes. Get professionally crafted content suggestions and expert insights every step of the way.
Academic awards and honors
Employers often value academic achievements as an indicator of potential performance in the workplace, so it is important to showcase your academic accomplishments on your internship resume.
This can include scholarships, dean's list, academic excellence awards or any other recognition you have received for outstanding academic performance.
You can list academic achievements in the education section of your resume or in a separate section at the bottom of your resume with the heading, “Awards” or “Awards & Honors.”
Below are a few examples of awards you might list on an internship resume.
- Dean's List
- Academic Excellence Award
- Outstanding Leadership Award
- Outstanding Community Service Award
- Scholarship Awards
- Research Grant Awards
- Study Abroad Scholarship Awards
- Honor Society Membership
- Academic Competition Awards
Volunteer or work experience
If you have any work experience or volunteer experience, you’ll want to include it in your internship resume.
This shows potential employers that you have real-world experience and are capable of handling tasks and responsibilities in a professional setting.
When you are crafting an application for an internship, you can get creative with the work history section of your resume rather than focusing solely on paid roles.
Here are a few examples of what you can include in this section:
- Part-time or full-time jobs
- Previous internships
- Co-op programs
- Freelance work
- Volunteer work
- Student leadership roles
- Extracurricular activities related to the field
- Research assistant positions
- Teaching assistant positions
- Industry-related training or certifications
- Personal projects or entrepreneurial ventures
If you have any previous internships, include them here. Take a look at the example below to see how to list an internship on your resume:
Social Media Marketing Intern
ABC Company, New York, NY
Jun 2020 - Jan 2021
- Conducted market research and analyzed data for the development of a new product launch strategy.
- Assisted in the planning and executing of promotional events, resulting in a 20% increase in sales.
- Collaborated with graphic designers to design marketing materials such as flyers, brochures and email campaigns.
Measurable accomplishments
Whenever possible, quantify your achievements and results to demonstrate the impact you made.
For example, mention the number of people you managed, the percentage of improvement in a project or the amount of money you raised for a charity event.
Here are a few examples of measurable achievements that could be included on an internship resume:
- "Increased student engagement in the English Club by 25% by organizing weekly events and activities."
- "Assisted in the planning and executing of a career fair, resulting in a 40% increase in employer attendance."
- "Coordinated a community service project that involved 20 volunteers and resulted in the completion of 100 hours of volunteer work."
- "Developed and implemented a social media campaign that increased awareness of a campus event, resulting in a 50% increase in attendance."
Use strong action verbs to describe your responsibilities and contributions in past roles. Action verbs help to create a more engaging resume by providing a vivid description of your skills and experiences.
Transferable skills
By including a skills section on your resume, you can demonstrate to potential employers that you possess the necessary strengths to succeed in the role, even if you have limited work experience.
Focus on transferable skills that can be applied across different industries or roles. Some examples include interpersonal skills such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, leadership, time management and organization.
For instance, if you were a team leader for a group project in college, you can highlight your leadership and teamwork skills by describing how you effectively delegated tasks, facilitated collaboration and achieved project goals.
You can also emphasize transferable skills gained from part-time jobs or volunteer work. For example, if you worked as a server, you can highlight your customer service skills, ability to work under pressure and strong communication skills.
Certifications or trainings
Including certifications and training on an internship resume can be a great way to demonstrate that you have pursued additional education or training related to the internship position and that you are committed to developing your skills and knowledge.
For example, if you're applying for an internship in the marketing field, including certifications such as Google Analytics or HubSpot Inbound Marketing can demonstrate your understanding of marketing analytics and digital marketing strategies.
When including certifications and training on your resume, make sure to list the name of the certification, the organization that provided it and the date it was earned. Provide a brief description of the skills or knowledge gained from the certification or training.
Learn everything you need to know about how to write a resume that impresses hiring managers and wins interviews.
Relevant hobbies or extracurriculars
Include any extracurricular activities that showcase your involvement, leadership and skills relevant to the internship. This can include clubs, sports teams or community organizations.
For example, if you are applying for a marketing internship and you mention that you enjoy creating and managing social media content as a hobby, it can demonstrate your passion for the field and your ability to apply your skills outside of the academic or professional setting.
Avoid listing hobbies that are irrelevant or potentially controversial. For example, mentioning your love for extreme sports or political affiliations may not be appropriate and can potentially overshadow your professional qualifications.
Internship resume template
Check out the resume template for an internship below for a snapshot of what to include on your resume.
For a preformatted option crafted by professional graphic designers, see our library of professional resume templates and find one that suits your unique style.
[City, State and Zip Code]
[Phone Number]
[Professional Email Address]
[Insert 1-2 sentence objective statement about what you hope to achieve through the internship]
Education
[Degree] in [Major], [University Name], [Graduation Date]GPA: [Insert GPA if above 3.0]
Relevant Coursework
[List any relevant coursework or projects that relate to the internship position]Experience
[Name of Company A], [Position], [Dates of Employment]- [Describe your responsibilities and accomplishments in bullet points]
- [Describe your responsibilities and accomplishments in bullet points]
Skills
[List any relevant skills such as language proficiency, software proficiency, or technical skills]Certifications
[List any relevant certifications or licenses you possess]Internship resume examples
See the sample resumes for internships below to get inspired. We also recommend browsing our library of 800+ resume examples for additional samples for various roles, industries and experience levels.
Accounting internship resume
Legal internship resume
Marketing internship resume
Nursing internship resume
Software engineering internship resume
Internship resume writing tips from Certified Resume Writers
- Tailor your resume to each internship. Research the specific role and company you are applying to and customize your resume accordingly. Highlight skills, experiences and achievements that directly align with the internship requirements.
- Incorporate keywords from the job description. Carefully review the job description and incorporate the keywords that align with your own skills, qualifications and experiences. Including keywords in your internship resume increases your visibility to potential employers and demonstrates your fit for the position.
- Optimize your resume for applicant tracking systems (ATS). For an ATS-friendly resume, incorporate relevant keywords, use a clear and simple format and avoid graphics or images that could confuse the ATS. Additionally, use standard job titles and avoid using acronyms or abbreviations that the ATS may not recognize.
- Use concise language and strong action verbs. Use strong action verbs to describe your experiences and responsibilities. Keep your sentences concise and clear, focusing on the most relevant information. Use our free ATS resume checker to scan your resume for common issues, such as poor word choice or a lack of action verbs.
- Highlight relevant technology skills. Many internships require proficiency in specific software or technology. Make sure to mention any relevant computer skills or technical skills you possess, such as programming languages, graphic design software or data analysis tools.
- Clean up your online presence. Potential employers often search for candidates online and review their social media profiles and other online content. Review and remove any inappropriate or unprofessional content, including posts, photos or comments. Additionally, consider posting your resume online and updating your career networking profiles to showcase relevant accomplishments and experiences.
- Include a cover letter with your internship resume. A strong cover letter allows you to express why you're interested in the internship and what makes you a strong candidate. It also lets you highlight skills or experiences that may not immediately appear in your resume. Use our Cover Letter Builder to generate a compelling cover letter in minutes.
Top qualities employers look for in an intern
When it comes to landing an internship, it's not just about having good grades or a polished resume. Employers are seeking candidates who possess a unique set of qualities that go beyond technical knowledge.
The National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) conducted a 2017 Internship & Co-op Survey to determine the top skills that employers want to see in potential interns.
Employers responding to the survey indicated the following as critical competencies for intern hires:
- Information processing
- Teamwork
- Planning and prioritizing
- Decision making and problem-solving
- Verbal communication
Whether you're a student looking to secure an internship or a young professional aiming to enhance your employability, understanding and developing these qualities will significantly increase your chances of standing out and excelling in the competitive world of internships.
You can also check out our Harvard resume guide for additional resume tips and templates.
Strategies for finding an internship
The search for the perfect internship can feel overwhelming, especially if you're not sure where to start.
To help you navigate this process, we've compiled a list of strategies for finding an internship that aligns with your goals and interests.
1. Explore online job boards
Many websites specialize in listing internship opportunities. Some popular ones include Indeed, LinkedIn, Glassdoor, InternMatch and Internships.com. Use filters to narrow down your search by location, industry or specific keywords.
2. Attend career fairs
Career fairs are a great way to meet employers and learn about internship opportunities in your field. Dress professionally, bring copies of your resume and be prepared to introduce yourself and ask questions.
3. Check with your university
Many colleges and universities have career services offices to help you find internship opportunities. They may have job boards, networking events or connections with local employers. Reach out to your career services office for guidance and resources.
4. Network with professionals
Networking can be a valuable way to discover internship opportunities. Attend industry events, job fairs and career expos to meet professionals in your field and learn about potential internships.
5. Utilize your personal network
Let friends, family, professors and acquaintances know that you are seeking an internship. They may have connections or know of opportunities that could be a good fit for you.
6. Use social media
Social media platforms like Twitter and Facebook can be useful for finding internships. Follow companies and organizations you're interested in, and use relevant hashtags to search for internship opportunities.
7. Leverage your alumni network
Reach out to alumni from your college or university who work in your field of interest. They may be able to offer guidance or help you find internships.
Be proactive and persistent, and take advantage of all available resources to increase your chances of finding the right internship for you.
Pair your internship resume with a compelling internship cover letter to stand out from the competition.
Common internship interview questions
- What is Your Availability: Highlights the importance of having a flexible schedule, which is often crucial for internships, allowing you to accommodate various responsibilities and tasks.
- What is Most Important to You in a Job: Insights into aligning personal values and priorities with the internship role, demonstrating your fit and dedication to potential employers.
- Describe a Time When You Were Forced to Think on Your Feet: Techniques for showcasing quick decision-making and adaptability, crucial skills during an internship where tasks and responsibilities can change rapidly.
- Give an Example of Accomplishing a Personal Goal: Methods for illustrating determination and the ability to set and achieve objectives, reflecting how you can contribute to internship projects and team goals.
- Describe a Time Where You Put Your Needs Aside to Help Another: Examples of teamwork and a collaborative spirit, critical for thriving in internship roles and contributing positively to the team’s success.
- What Can You Bring to the Team: Advice on effectively communicating your unique strengths and how they can be an asset to the team, especially relevant for interns looking to make a positive impact.
Key takeaways
- Tailor your resume to the specific internship and company you are applying to. This means researching the company and the internship to understand what skills and experiences they are looking for and adjusting your resume accordingly.
- Use action words to describe your experiences and skills. This helps demonstrate your abilities and makes your resume more engaging to read.
- Emphasize your accomplishments, not just your responsibilities. Instead of just listing your job duties, focus on what you achieved and how you contributed to the success of a project or organization.
- Highlight any relevant coursework, extracurricular activities or volunteer work. Even if you don't have direct experience in your chosen field, you may have developed skills through other activities that are relevant to the internship.
- Include any relevant certifications or technical skills you have. This can help demonstrate your expertise and make you stand out as a candidate.
- Keep your resume concise and easy to read. Use bullet points and clear headings to make your resume easy to scan, and avoid using overly complicated language or formatting.
FAQ
How do I write a resume for an internship with no experience?
If you are applying for an internship with no prior experience, you can still create an effective resume highlighting your skills, education and other relevant experiences. Here are some tips for writing a resume for an internship with no experience:
- Start with a strong objective statement: This should be a brief statement that highlights your career goals and what you hope to achieve from the internship. Focus on how the internship will help you develop your skills, gain experience and contribute to the company.
- Highlight your education: If you have a strong academic record, including your GPA and any relevant coursework or projects demonstrating your skills. You can also include any academic awards or honors you have received.
- Emphasize your skills: Even if you don’t have direct experience, you may have developed skills through coursework, extracurricular activities or volunteer work. Highlight skills that are relevant to the internship, such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving or attention to detail.
See our guide on how to write a resume with no experience for additional tips and tricks.
Do internships look good on a college resume?
Yes, internships look very good on a college resume. They demonstrate to potential employers or admissions officers that you have taken the initiative to gain real-world experience and are motivated to learn and grow in your field of interest.
Listing internships on a high school resume for a college application can help you stand out by showing that you have relevant experience and skills and a desire to learn and grow as a student and professional.
In addition, internships can provide excellent opportunities to develop your professional network and gain references that can be valuable as you apply for jobs after graduation.
Check out our Yale resume templates for additional examples and guidance from career advice experts.
Should you put your high school on an internship resume?
In general, it is not necessary to include your high school on an internship resume. Internship resumes should focus on your most recent and relevant experiences, skills and education.
The exception here is if you are currently in high school and applying for an internship, then it would be appropriate to include your high school information on your resume. Explore our teen resume examples for additional guidance.
If you have already completed some college coursework or have a college degree, it is generally recommended to leave your high school information off your resume, as it is no longer as relevant.
Remember to include a cover letter with your internship resume. See what to include in a cover letter for guidance from career advice experts.
Does an internship count as professional experience?
Yes, an internship can count as professional experience. An internship provides practical training and exposure to a specific industry or field. It typically involves working in a professional environment, collaborating with colleagues and developing new skills.
When including an internship on your resume or job application, you can list it as professional experience. This is particularly relevant if the internship is directly related to the job you are applying for, and if you gained relevant skills and experience during the internship.
Need an internship resume fast? We recommend using an AI resume builder to build a resume in a matter of minutes. We recommend MyPerfectResume’s AI Resume Builder, which provides expert content suggestions that help you describe your internship experience effectively.
How do you put an internship on a resume?
When putting an internship on your resume, list the internship position title, the name of the company or organization and the location (city, state). Include the dates of your internship, specifying the start and end dates.
Provide a brief description of your internship responsibilities and tasks. Focus on the key skills and experiences that are relevant to the position you are applying for.
Highlight any notable achievements such as specific projects you worked on, any awards or recognition you received or any measurable impact you made.
Emphasize the skills you acquired or developed during your internship. This could include technical skills, such as software proficiency or data analysis, as well as soft skills, such as communication, teamwork and problem-solving.
Should you include references on an internship resume?
It is not necessary to include references on an internship resume. In fact, most employers do not expect to see references at the application stage, as they are typically requested later in the hiring process.
Instead of including references on your resume, you can simply state “references available upon request” at the end of your resume.
If an employer does request references, make sure to provide them in a separate document with the appropriate contact information and context of your relationship with each reference.
It is also a good idea to give your references a heads up that they might be contacted, so they are prepared to speak positively about you.
How do you explain internship experience in an interview?
Explaining your internship experience during a job interview is an excellent opportunity to showcase your skills, achievements and potential value to the employer.
Before the interview, review your internship experience and identify the most relevant soft skills and hard skills that you gained through the experience.
Instead of providing a general overview of your internship, focus on specific examples demonstrating your skills and achievements. Use the STAR method (situation, task, action result) to structure your answers.
Show enthusiasm and confidence in your internship experience. Demonstrate how it has prepared you for the position you are applying for and how you can add value to the company.
How can you keep in touch after your internship ends?
Staying in touch after your internship ends is an excellent way to maintain a professional relationship with your former employer and colleagues. Here are some tips on how to keep in touch:
- Connect on LinkedIn: LinkedIn is a great platform for professional networking. Connect with your former colleagues and employers on LinkedIn, and keep your profile updated with your latest achievements and career goals.
- Send occasional emails: Send occasional emails to let your former employer and colleagues know how you are doing. Share updates on your current job, projects or any relevant news that might interest them.
- Attend networking events: Attend networking events related to your field and industry. You might run into your former colleagues or employer and have the opportunity to catch up with them.
- Follow the company’s social media accounts: Follow the company’s social media accounts to stay updated on the latest news and developments. You can also engage with their posts and share relevant content.
Maintaining a positive relationship with your former internship employer and colleagues can open up new opportunities and help you advance your career.
How we reviewed this article
Since 2012, we have helped more than 11 million job seekers. We want to make your career journey accessible and manageable through our services and Career Center’s how-to guides and tips. In our commitment to bring you a transparent process, we present our Editorial Process.
Sources
- National Associate of Colleges and Employers. Article. The Key Skills Employers Develop In Their Interns
- The Muse. Article. Maguire, Alyse. 5 Steps to Writing the Perfect Resume for an Internship (Plus an Example!)
- University of California San Diego. Effective Resume for Academic Internships
- The Balance. Article. Doyle, Alison. How to List an Internship on a Resume (With Examples)
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How to Write an Internship Resume (Examples & Templates)
Elizabeth is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) and member of the Professional Association of Resume Writers & Career Coaches. She is committed to helping job seekers navigate the job market and succeed in their careers.
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