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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Original Message:
Sent: 11-15-2017 09:34
From: Linda Moody
Subject: Internship
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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