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  • 1.  Internship

    Posted 11-13-2017 09:38 AM
    Hello !
    I want to express first my big appreciation to the concept of this community of international civil engineers that represent the leaders of their countries , because infrastructures have an essential role in the development and the progress of the conditions of existing of many people , as a member of the ASCE I learn daily deep information about civil engineering in general which is very interesting to our careers .
    In fact , I am a student of civil engineering from Morocco specialized in infrastructures and transports and I am searching for an internship for a period more than 4 months in this field  , I want to enjoy an international adventure in a well-known enterprise and discover the universe of civil engineering from another side . Also , in order , to get close to the functionally of a skyscraper , a bridge work , or a roadblock ,so as to achieve my individuality and improve my skills .
    My email is : Chelkha.chaimae@... in case you were interested about living the experience of internship with an international student nd I can send you more information about my various experiences.

    Kind regards ,

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    Chaimae Chelkha S.M.ASCE
    The event manager and the treasurer of The Confederation of Junior-Enterprises In Morocco
    Casablanca
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  • 2.  RE: Internship

    Posted 11-14-2017 09:58 AM
    Chaimae, start with firms that do the type of work you are interested in.  First, search through Civil Engineering magazine advertisements for companies and clues.  Then, search them out on-line for addresses.  Next, write a cover letter explaining exactly what you are looking for, in what time frame, and when you will be available.  Do this for several companies.
    When you get the job, DON'T expect any great, fantastic, original design work.  It will be basic technician work which is done everywhere and is necessary - otherwise you wouldn't be doing it.  And, with rare exceptions we ALL have done it! 
    Good luck, kid!

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    James Justin Mercier, P.E.
    Life Member ASCE
    Sr. Life Member IEEE
    Austin Texas
    512-442-4016
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  • 3.  RE: Internship

    Posted 11-15-2017 11:33 AM
    Your larger companies will have, or should have, an internship program.  Some US based international companies are: AECOM, FLUOR, PARSONS, BLACK & VEATCH, ICF INTERNATIONAL.  There are more companies, but these are the only ones I can think of right off the top of my head.  Visit their respective career pages on their websites & search for internship positions... And this may seem archaic, but don't forget to look in the Yellow Pages phone book (&/or  www.yellowpages.com) because engineering companies are listed by discipline.

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    Linda Moody EIT, A.M.ASCE
    Civil Engineer II
    AECOM
    Germantown MD
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  • 4.  RE: Internship

    Posted 11-16-2017 11:27 AM
    ​Chaimae,

     I advise a lot of students through ASCE and other organizations' student chapters and by far the most effective method I have seen to find quality internships is attending engineering/technical society meetings, luncheons, events, etc. outside of school. Most will offer free or heavily discounted  fees for students to attend and everyone there is a potential employer. It is a great way to build a professional network that will benefit you for the rest of your career. 

     Here are a few tips to help you get the most out of those meetings:

    1. Don't be shy. Introduce yourself to as many people as possible and don't feel intimidated about joining a conversation. Be honest about the fact that you're a student and looking to learn more. The vast majority of the people there will be friendly and welcoming.

    2. Ask people about what kind of work they do. When you find someone that is working in your field of interest, ask them what led them to it, how did they get their job, what advice could they offer, etc. Ask them who else works in those kinds of projects and introduce yourself to them at a future meeting. Get everyone's contact information and follow-up with them later about an internship. Even if they don't have an internship available, they will know the other people practicing in this field and can help connect you to opportunities.

    3. Don't expect to attend one meeting and find your dream job. That may happen but its unlikely. By showing up regularly you demonstrate your commitment to your profession and career and that makes an impression.

    4. The first time will be the hardest. I promise you it will get easier and easier though until one day you arrive and realize you know most of the people there. 

     Best wishes and good luck! This is an exciting time in your life and career and I hope you get the chance to make the most of it.

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    Paul Maron P.E., M.ASCE
    Project Manager
    Strand Associates
    Louisville KY
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