All About Internships and Work Experience Placements

[DriversHigh]

that makes sense cicciolina, thanks!

the only reason why I asked is because supposedly over 40% of people lie on their resume (and I guess this would be one of those lies) and because a resume would seem really "choppy" if you work somewhere in intervals for a set amount of years. That's just how I see it. Not that I'm promoting lying in anyway.

 

[Cicciolina]

Well I mean if you were working somewhere for 2 years and took 1 month off, I think you can still say you worked two years.

But you can't say you worked for a year when it was really only two vacation periods, which is what, max 6 months? Because that will raise questions about how you managed that on top of uni work, life in general,etc.

I understand many people lie on the resumes, but if it's something important (ie degrees, etc), the truth will come out and hurt you later on imho!

If it's something like you worked every summer for 3 years - that's 9 months of experience all up. I think it's better over all to say "Interned at ____ every summer for three years" is better than saying "Interned at ____ for three years".

 

[joiedemode]

In the summer how long do internships last? Is it possible to find one for one month-two months? When should I start looking for one?

 

[Cicciolina]

joiedemode most places will be quite reluctant to have someone for 1 month as it usually isn't long enough - by the time you have got into their system you'll have to leave, but not long enough to really get involved in larger projects/assignments. Can you aim for 2.5-3 months instead, as that seems to be what they most prefer - and many of them don't mind more!

 

[DriversHigh]

I understand many people lie on the resumes, but if it's something important (ie degrees, etc), the truth will come out and hurt you later on imho!

I couldn't agree more! I've heard of people lying about being fluent in a language on their resumes and being tested on it once they're interviewed.

 

[joiedemode]

Oh okay yes that is fine Thank you!

 

[shirleebee]

Do you think the "functional" format is acceptable for fashion-related internships/entry level positions etc? It's become the "ideal" resume format for college grads and undergrads. It also allows you to express assets that you might not be able to share should you stick with the more regimented, chronological format (for example, freelance work in the music and writing industries, in my case).

 

[pinksatin]

Shirleebee- I think that's totally fine if it expresses your skills and experience better. As long as it's still in a very clear well organized way that someone can read quickly. Just make sure you proofread and have someone else proofread like a parent, teacher, friend in the industry, etc. Not for spelling errors (that's a cinch) but more about improving format and organization. There are so many formats and hybrids of formats that I don't think it matters which you use as long as it sells you and is clear.

Drivers high- I think a way to be safe with that is I say I have "fundamental proficiency" in things like adobe photoshop, indesign, illustrator, languages french and spanish because I even though it's basic, I still have a little knowledge and experience and I want to say that. But fundamental=elementary so they can't expect me to be an expert or fluent. Just that I know enough to get by. Which is better than nothing right?

 

[Cicciolina]

Oooh fundamental profiency - great one pinksatin! I usually say "conversational French/etc".

Great post overall pinksatin

 

[DriversHigh]

I tried to give you karma pinksatin, but the faulty system wouldn't let me =(

You are absolutely right. When applying for a position, I find myself at a loss of words in explaining that I have general knowledge in something without sounding generic or sophomoric-and in doing so-turning employers off. Your method fulfills my intentions tenfold.

 

[pinksatin]

Thanks guys! No problem. I find this thread so helpful in what other people say so I'm glad I can help someone in return.

 

[Cicciolina]

pinksatin now all these places that take interns will suddenly have the words "fundamentally proficient" for languages in their resume I think it's a great phrase!

 

[pinksatin]

oh yes! It also works for special skills like photoshop, illustrator, etc.

 

[happyguy]

hey!!!i was wondeing bout that!!!!thanks a lot!!!=)

 

[DriversHigh]

pinksatin now all these places that take interns will suddenly have the words "fundamentally proficient" for languages in their resume I think it's a great phrase!

hahaha especially since we're all applying to mostly the same positions.

 

[knightley]

I couldn't agree more! I've heard of people lying about being fluent in a language on their resumes and being tested on it once they're interviewed.

They do. I didn't lie about being fluent in German or Czech. During my internship I was asked questions in both.

When you work at an agency being fluent in another language, especially an Eastern European one can be a HUGE boost in your favor. Being able to help the new girls coming from, say, the Czech Republic, Russia.. you have a leg up. Plus, you know what people are saying backstage!

Also, do not lie about where you've interned, change your duties to make them sound better, or fudge time there. When competing for internships these things make someone stand out and they will check on them. Experience in this industry is crucial, so be careful doing things like that.

Honestly, a good resume will read like you're confident and proud of yourself. It'll feel like I'm reading something, not seeing a bulleted list. You want to put who you are, what you do that makes you unique, and why you should be considered.

 

[MarryMeTomFord]

I'm 27, have about 4 years of working experience as a writer for an eLearning company here, currently unemployed. Someone told me to go for unpaid internship at magazines like elle or vogue. My question is, would they think its pathetic that a grown woman with experience is wanting to do the grunt work of an intern? I dont have relavant experience (The editor of elle told me eLearning/writing on the net doesnt qualify as real writing), dont have a journo degree, what i am qualified to do i no longer want to do... Also, when going for an interview, do we say "i have great writing skills and experience" or "I'm not good. but am willing to learn"

and how many months of internship will finally translate to a paid writer's job?

 

[ms-nietzsche]

Is there a recommended/mandatory major to go into publishing? I've heard English/Art History before...

 

[knightley]

So much of the recommended majors are.. eh. It's more who you know. I hate to be so honest about it, but I have friends who majored in philosophy at, like, a community college (not that a community college is bad, but they're pitting that against people with degrees in fashion marketing, who don't know anyone, but want the chance) that are working as casting agents because their family friend is so-and-so and made the right phone call. The right major will just help you find contacts.

With publishing and journalism, I'd imagine English or journalism would be the key ones to have if you want to do the writing side, but business, marketing, and on the other side of publishing, those are important. Graphic design goes a long way, surprisingly! For positions like booking and casting, it has a lot to do with who you know and your interview. People want to hire people who are affable and good-natured, sometimes even outside of the whole hubbab because they're less likely to be involved and they can train you entirely for the position.

Study what you love, honestly. I've done history and I couldn't be happier and I have a few options. I'm chasing one right now, so hopefully! The opportunity would be stellar. (And I'd give Rykiel up for it)!

 

[Fabulyss]

Is there anyone in this thread from Chicago? PM me please I've got some questions!