Internship program bolsters student credentials

A representative from one of Pitt’s Office of Career Services told students that they need to put in the research before beginning their career Wednesday afternoon in room 540 of the William Pitt Union.. 

Alyson Kavalukas, the internship coordinator from the Office of Career Services, discussed different aspects of the internship hunt, such as interviewing and receiving more information from potential employers., to approximately 15 students. 

“Look at the career resources of other schools in other areas,” Kavalukas said. 

By doing so, students can find companies that are typically receptive to college employees, rather than blindly searching through the businesses of a different area. 

For students who have a dream company at which they would like to work, visiting the organization’s website or contacting a staff person in a particular company department can open up doors. Often, jobs may not be posted on a career page — instead, recruiters may hire internally or based on staff recommendations. 

Sophomore Caity Loper had attended the program to get a jump on career opportunities. 

“I feel like this is more structured, and could be easier,” Loper said, admitting that she didn’t know where to look initially. 

The Internship Preparation Program holds sessions throughout the semester on four topics: the initial search, networking, resumés and interviews. 

The program will dedicate the entire week of Oct. 7 to the topic of internships, with prospective companies — such as UPMC, US Steel and American Eagle Outfitters — visiting the campus. The program will also host events on elevator pitches and the legal climate of internships. 

Kavalukas was optimistic about every student’s chances. 

“There are a lot of responsibilities, but it’s not overwhelming. If you have the time to do an internship, you have the time to find one,” she said.