"Workshop Wednesday" teaches students about internships

The Troy University Office of Career Services held its second “Workshop Wednesday” on Jan. 28, which focused on educating students about internships.  

The second installment of the workshops, titled “Landing an Internship You’ll Actually Love,” included a presentation disproving myths surrounding internships, where to find quality internships, how to evaluate which roles are truly a good match for you and how to market yourself as a strong candidate. The presentation also gave valuable and applicable tips for applying on your own time.  

“I would say start early and start your process a lot earlier than you think you need to,” said Alicia Womack, assistant director of career services. “A lot of the really good internships go quick.  

“Then, make sure you're checking credible sources. Handshake is a really great one, and LinkedIn is good.”  

“Going to the career fairs would be another really good way to prepare, so that you can network and get to know employers in your area. So, do that and then come by and see us and let us help you get your application and your resume ready.” 

The workshop had its best turnout yet with nearly 50 students in attendance. There were students from around the world and from every classification.  

Nam Hoang, a senior computer science major from Vietnam, said he was surprised to learn about the multitude of online platforms available for internship searches and applications.  

“There are a lot of online platforms for looking for jobs,” Haong said. “Before this event, I only knew about LinkedIn, but after this event, I know there are other platforms like Handshake, Parker Dewey and Forage.”  

The workshop not only discussed credible sources for finding internships and jobs but also taught students “internship red flags” to avoid. Womack warned students not to apply for internships with vague duty descriptions, offer no pay or academic credit, make you pay to apply or only pay via commission.  

Womack also encouraged students to network frequently via job fairs and LinkedIn. Students were shocked to learn that 80% of jobs are filled through networking.  

“Mrs. Womack is a very good presenter,” said Spencer Smith, a freshman English major from Dothan, Alabama. “She really helped me understand the topic and everything.  

“It was very digestible to learn about something that's normally so confusing.” 

Womack said the Office of Career Services is now offering a link via Handshake and email for online, Montgomery or Dothan students to attend the workshops.  

The next workshop will be a “Resume Blitz” in TC room 119 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Feb.

18. Those interested in attending a “Workshop Wednesday” can check their Troy email for future dates or stop by Career Services in Eldridge Hall, room 124.  

Additionally, those interested in more information can follow Career Services on Instagram @troyucareer for more updates and can also stop by the office any weekday for help with resumes, graduate school applications and more.