Volume 67, Issue 8

Gabe’s Column
by Gabriel Jacobson

As the spring semester is under way, while most are returning, many students are coming to YU for the first time. Regardless of your tenure at YU, this time of the year is a very exciting one. Specifically, now is when summer plans are formed, developed, and finalized.

Internships are the principal way of obtaining hands-on experience in the business world. Textbooks are a great foundation, but lack the key element of hands-on experience. When one works during the summer, the skills of teamwork, motivation, leadership, and problem-solving techniques are all acquired. These basic – yet indispensable – qualities are the traits that recruiters seek. These are essential behavioral qualities that place a candidate on the “radar map.”

When deciding what internship to pursue, it is of utmost importance to choose an industry of interest to you. This spectrum can range from the fast-paced, corporate world to a warm and entertaining camp environment. Regardless of your choice, attitude and frame of mind are critical. When approached with the desire to learn, produce, and succeed, the summer experience will provide you with the building blocks to thrive in the business world.

Searching for summer positions has become easier in our technologically advanced environment. Books – which can be obtained in our library – are published each year identifying what internship jobs are available. The internet provides a variety of job possibilities, in almost any industry you can imagine. Furthermore, as Jewish students, we have a great advantage. The Jewish community is a relatively small one, with industry professionals often being our family friends. They can be a great source of advice, guidance, and direction. It is your option – and often obligation – to discover what opportunities are available.

At the end of the summer, it really doesn’t matter what field you’ve worked in as much as what you’ve gained. Future recruiters always notice positive attitudes, strong commitments, and superior communication skills. These are the qualities you should want to acquire regardless of what field you’ve worked in.  After a fulfilling summer of attaining these characteristics, you will be one of the best armed candidates in the market. The skills will stay with you well beyond your first, second, or even third job. They will propel you to great endeavors, and open the many doors of opportunity.

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