When you’re studying for a career in digital media, you’re learning 

isn’t limited to the classroom. Extending your educational experience beyond the school campus can be a fantastic way to set yourself up for a bright future.

A digital media internship is one of the best ways to simultaneously strengthen your skills and your hiring potential. But before you can get started, you’ll need to know how to get an internship in the media industry – the good news is that it can be easier than you might think.

We’re going to help you gain a better understanding of the “how,” “what,” and “why” of interning so you’re ready to confidently seize your opportunity. 

What is an Internship?

First and foremost, let’s cover the basics. An internship is defined as a set period of work experience intended to help an individual (usually a student) gain relevant skills to be used in their future career field. 

Ultimately, an internship aims to connect classroom learning to practical application. In other words, it gives you the chance to put all of your newly-learned skills into practice in the real world. Plus, you can also expand your understanding of your future career, field, and industry as a whole. 

Some interns are paid, while others solely receive course credit. 

What are the Benefits of Interning?

Internships provide a wide range of benefits, especially for students interested in working in skilled roles within specialized fields (such as digital media). 

As an intern, you will be able to:

• Expand your skillset
• Gain work experience
• Explore various careers
• Increase your marketability as a future job candidate
• Network with professionals in your career field
• Build a better resume
• Learn more about how a professional workplace operates 
• Get useful feedback from experienced professionals
• Discover what you’re passionate about

In some cases, an internship can even evolve into a full-time position. It can be an excellent way to get your foot in the door at a company you would love to be a part of.

How to Become a Digital Media Intern

Now, you see exactly why interning is such a smart move – but how do you get an internship in digital media? 

Here are the steps you can take to secure a digital media internship.

Enroll in a digital media production program at a media school.

First, you’ll need to be a student to find and apply for intern positions. Your best bet is to join a specialized digital media program at a technical media school. Not only will you be able to gain an in-depth education focused on digital media, but you may also have greater access to opportunities within the industry.

A digital media production program can be an ideal option for individuals interested in a wide variety of careers, ranging from marketing and branding to production. 

Consider where to intern.

Do you have any ideas about the specific job role you are interested in pursuing? If so, look for internship opportunities that align with that position. Or, if you aren’t sure exactly what type of media career you want, you can explore various internships to get a better idea of where your interests may be.

Choosing an internship in the city where you would eventually like to live and work can also be useful. For example, if you dream of working as a digital marketer in Chicago, think about applying for Chicago media internships – that way, you can start building professional relationships.

Apply for the internship(s).

Applying for interning positions is often similar to completing job applications, though it can be somewhat more intense in certain cases. Be sure to set aside plenty of time for applications, so you can properly complete all of the requirements. 

At some media schools, there is support available for locating and applying for internships. Use these resources to your advantage whenever possible!

Get an internship and make the most of it.

When you do land an internship, give it your all! Go in with an open mind, a positive attitude, and a willingness to learn. This internship is your chance to look inside the field, so soak up every moment!

Find Digital Media Internships in Miami, Chicago, Illinois, Ohio, & Colorado

At the Beonair Network of Media Schools, with campuses located in Miami, Chicago, Colorado, and Ohio, our media internship program helps students find incredible internships in digital media, production, radio, and TV. Combined with our media education programs, interning can be a great first step toward your dream career.

For more information about internships in the media industry, contact us today!

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Image Credit: Roman Samborskyi on Shutterstock