You have found the perfect business, but they have never hosted an intern before. This guide gives you a script to follow to pitch yourself and hopefully secure an internship. Good luck trailblazer!
Before contacting a business, you should fill in these blanks for yourself. Also, bring a resume!
Why this business?
I am interested in this business because __________________________.
A specific thing I noticed about your work is __________________________.
I would especially like to learn about __________________________.
What I bring
One reason I would be dependable is __________________________.
A skill I have that could help is __________________________.
An example of me working hard is __________________________.
What I’m asking for
I am hoping for an internship where I can __________________________.
I am available __________________________.
I would be happy to start with a short conversation or interview.
This script should be used if you are calling a business, or walk into a business and talk to the person at the front desk.
“Hi, my name is [Name], and I’m a student at Bethesda-Chevy Chase High School. I’m [calling/here] because I’m really interested in [business/field], and I’m looking for an internship where I can learn more and help out. We have a school-supported internship program, and I was wondering who the best person would be to speak with about that.”
This script should be used if you are passed along to the manager, owner, or whoever would be able to make an internship happen.
“Hi, my name is [Name], and I’m a student at Bethesda-Chevy Chase High School. I’m [calling/here] because I’m very interested in [field/business], especially [specific reason]. I’m looking for an internship where I can learn, contribute, and get real experience. I’m hardworking, dependable, and really interested in learning from your team. Would you be open to a quick conversation about whether something like that could work?”
NOTE- be sure to use a personal email, not your mcpsmd.net email.
Subject: B-CC student interested in internship opportunity
Body:
Hello [Mr./Ms./Name],
My name is [Name], and I am a student at Bethesda-Chevy Chase High School. I am reaching out because I am very interested in [business/field], and I would love the opportunity to learn more through an internship experience.
I am especially interested in your organization because [specific reason]. For example, [something specific you noticed, admire, or want to learn about].
I’m hardworking, dependable, and eager to learn. If you might be open to a brief conversation, I’d be very grateful. I would be happy to share more information about the program as well.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Best,
[Name]
[Grade]
Bethesda-Chevy Chase High School
[Email]
There are a few common follow up questions that emmployers may ask. Here are a some sample questions and responses.
“Our school has a structured internship program for students. The employer side is meant to be manageable: mainly communication with the school, verifying time worked, and completing a few simple rubric-based evaluations. I’m especially interested in your organization because [reason]. I’m hardworking and eager to learn, and I’d love the chance to speak with the right person if this might be a fit.”
“I understand. Is there a better time I could come in in the future? Even a small opportunity to observe and help would mean a lot.”
“I understand. I’d be open to helping with basic tasks, learning how the organization works, shaddowing, and supporting wherever a student could be useful. I’m mainly looking for a chance to learn and contribute.”
“I understand. Is there a better time I could come in in the future? Even a small opportunity to observe and help would mean a lot.”
“I’m especially interested in learning about __________________, but I’m also open to helping wherever I’m needed. I’m hoping to learn how your organization works day to day and gain real experience.”
“I’m dependable, willing to learn, and ready to work hard. I know I still have a lot to learn, but I would take the opportunity seriously and do my best to be helpful.”
“I’m available [days/times], and I’m happy to discuss a schedule that works for your team. I would be interested in coming in [5/10/15] hours per week in total.”
“I’m mainly looking for the learning experience and course credit through my school program.”
“I’d like to better understand the daily work in this field, build professional skills, and contribute in a real workplace environment.”
Hello [Name],
I wanted to follow up on my earlier message about a possible internship opportunity. I know you may be busy, but I remained very interested in learning more about your organization and whether there might be a way for a student intern to contribute and learn.
Thank you again for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Name]