How to find internships as a freshman?

To find internships as a freshman, especially from a non-target school, here’s what you need to know based on the most helpful WSO content:

Cold Emailing Strategy:

1. Avoid General Firm Emails: Reaching out to a firm’s general email (like the “contact us” section) is not effective. Instead, focus on personalized outreach to individuals within the firm.

2. Target Analysts/Associates or Decision Makers:

   • For smaller firms, reaching out to analysts or associates can be effective as they might be more approachable and willing to respond.
   • For larger firms, consider targeting VPs or higher-level professionals who are decision-makers. Some users have found success focusing on these individuals for internships.

3. Personalized Outreach:

   • Use tools like Hunter.io to find professional email addresses.
   • Mention any shared connections, alma mater, or something specific about their work (e.g., a portfolio company or deal they worked on) to make your email stand out.
   • Keep your email concise and casual. Avoid robotic or overly formal tones. For example: Hi Name, My name is [Your Name], and I’m a freshman at [Your University]. I’m very interested in learning more about your career path and your role at [Firm Name]. If you have 15 minutes, I’d love to set up a quick call to hear your advice on breaking into [industry/field]. Best regards, [Your Name]

4. Follow-Up:

   • If you don’t get a response, follow up 5-9 days later with a short email reiterating your interest. Persistence is key.

What Worked for Others:

1. Cold Emailing and Networking:

   • Many users have successfully landed internships through consistent cold emailing and networking. For example, one user reached out to 60+ firms, got 8 responses, and secured 2 interviews.
   • Building relationships with alumni can also be highly effective. Alumni are often more willing to help, and response rates can be close to 100%.

2. Smaller/Local Firms:

   • Smaller firms or boutiques are often more flexible with hiring and may not have rigid internship programs. They might even create an opportunity for you if you show genuine interest and enthusiasm.
   • Keep in mind that some smaller firms may not finalize their summer headcounts until spring, so patience and persistence are important.

3. Informational Interviews:

   • Start with informational interviews to build rapport. Once you’ve established a connection, you can pitch for an internship. This approach not only increases your chances of landing an internship but also helps you build a long-term network.

Tips and Strategies:

• Be Proactive: Start early and reach out to as many firms as possible. The more emails you send, the higher your chances of getting a response.
• Prepare for Technicals: Be ready for technical questions or case studies if you secure an interview. For example, one user was given a 2-hour LBO case study with 12 hours’ notice.
• Focus on Relationship Building: Cold emailing is a great tool, but building relationships with alumni or professionals in the industry can open more doors in the long run.

By combining targeted cold emailing, networking, and persistence, you can maximize your chances of landing an internship as a freshman. Smaller firms and alumni connections are often the best starting points. Good luck!

Sources: 5 Steps To Becoming A Rockstar Freshman (Undergrad Advice), https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/job-search/cold-emailing-to-ask-for-internship-template-advice?customgpt=1, Two Internships Later: What I wish I Knew While Recruiting! (Toronto), What do sophomores usually do for internships?