How To Get Your Internship/Training – My Experience, Mistakes & Complete Guide
Getting a good internship during your degree is a key milestone. It’s your first opportunity to apply your knowledge in a real-world setting and a huge boost for your future career. But when I was searching for an internship, I faced many obstacles — confusion, ignoring emails, choosing where and whom to apply. So here’s a complete guide, from my own experience and struggles, to help you avoid the mistakes I made and find a great opportunity for yourself.
My Experience — Why It Was Difficult
- Lack of proper guidance — I was unsure how to apply, who to email, and what documents to send.
- Slow responses — I often sent applications to a generic “contact us” email and received no reply.
- Missed opportunities — Because I applied late and to the wrong people, I missed some very good opportunities under professors, CSIR labs, and companies.
Lessons I Learned
- Target the Right Person instead of sending a generic email.
- Send a clear, short, and respectful email. Provide your department, semester, college, area of interest, and attach your CV in PDF format.
- Follow-up After 7-10 Days if you don't get a reply.
How To Approach
1️⃣ NIT / IIT professors
- Visit their department webpage.
- Identify professors’ profiles and emails.
- Send tailored, clear, short emails with your CV attached.
- Tip: Mention their research area in your email to show you’re interested in their specific work.
2️⃣ CSIR Scientists
- Look at their official directory of Scientists.
- Identify a scientist whose area of expertise matches your interest.
- Send a brief email with your CV attached.
- Tip: Mention that you’re eager to learn and contribute.
3️⃣ CSIR-CEERI Pilani
- CEERI focuses on robotics, microwaves, automation, and semiconductor technologies.
- Visit their official website for “Training” or “Internship” announcements.
- If nothing is listed, find a scientist's email and send your application directly.
- Tip: Point to a specific project or area you find interesting.
4️⃣ Companies (Private Sector, Industries, Start-ups)
- Identify companies related to your field — automation, robotics, IoT, VLSI.
- Visit their official website’s Careers or Internship page.
- If there’s no page, find their HR department’s email and send your application directly.
- Mention your technical skills, certifications, or small projects you’ve done.
Effective Email Template
Subject: Application for Internship – [Your Name, Your Branch]
Respected [HR Manager / Prof. / Scientist's Name],
I am [Your Name], a [Your Semester, Branch] student at [Your College].
I am interested in [Research Area or Company’s Field]. I came across your profile and find your work/business really interesting. I would like to pursue a short internship under your supervision.
Please find attached my CV. I would be grateful if you could consider me for this opportunity.
Looking forward to your kind response.
Respectfully,
[Your Name]
[Your College]
[Your Contact Number]
Final Tips
- Prepare your CV and cover first.
- Send tailored emails directly to professors, CSIR Scientists, or companies’ HR.
- Be clear and respectful in your communication.
- Attach documents in PDF format.
- Apply 2–3 months in advance and follow-up if you don't hear back.
Some Common Mistakes To Avoid
- Using a generic email for all applications.
- Not addressing professors or recruiters by their name.
- Forgetting to attach your CV or portfolio.
- Applying last-minute, when seats might already be filled.
- Not following-up after a reasonable time (about 7-10 days).
Final Thoughts
The main key is patience, persistence, and personalization. The more you customize your application, the more likely you are to get noticed and selected. So start today, and all the best for your future endeavors!
