Tips for Securing Internships

When searching for and applying for internships, students have several resources available to maximize their chances of landing an internship.

Campus Resources

Monarch Internship & Co-Op Office (MICO) is located at 1000 Webb Center, Monday-Friday, 8:30 am to 5:00 pm. MICO is the central unit for supporting work-based learning initiatives at Old Dominion University. They provide advising sessions and support to students, collaborate with employers, and work with academic departments to expand work-based learning curricula.

What they offer:

  • Internship opportunities
  • Access to resources
  • Engaging workshops and events
  • Monarch PAW (Professional Attire Wardrobe)
  • Among other services….

Contact:

Center for Career and Leadership Development (CCLD) is located at 2202 Webb Center. The mission of the Center for Career & Leadership Development is to empower students and alumni from their first day as Monarchs through graduation and their careers by providing innovative programs, comprehensive resources, personalized guidance, and intentional engagement with community partners to foster the development of essential career skills and leadership qualities. They inspire lifelong learning, facilitate important connections for career readiness, and support the critical needs of our community, ensuring they are well-prepared to navigate and excel in a dynamic global landscape.

What they offer:

  • Empowering workshops and events
  • Leadership summits
  • Resume review
  • Among other services…

Contact:

Career Internship and Job Fairs are held once in the Fall and once in the Spring.

Useful Tips

  • Start Early – Begin searching for a position at least one semester before you plan to intern. Many companies recruit in the fall for the summer or a year in advance
  • Use University Resources – Check out ODU’s career services, MICO, Handshake, and Interdisciplinary School announcements for internship postings.
  • Network at ODU Actively – Attend career fairs, and connect with professors—they often know about opportunities. Join cyber affiliated ODU organizations such as CS2A, ODU Women in Cybersecurity chapter, Blacks in Cybersecurity, and/or the ODU AFCEA Hampton Roads chapter. Attend organization meetings and then volunteer for leadership positions. Your professional network will grow and will positively impact your professional journey now and in the future. Events typically revolve around networking, resume building, social media presence, Internship and job opportunities
  • Leverage LinkedIn – Create a strong profile and follow companies in your field. Engage with posts and apply through LinkedIn Jobs.
  • Target Cybersecurity Employers – Look for roles at tech firms, government agencies, and security consultancies. Keywords like ‘Cybersecurity Intern’ or ‘Information Security Intern’ help narrow searches.
  • Tailor Your Resume – Make yourself as marketable as possible by highlighting relevant coursework, projects, and certifications (like CompTIA Security+ or Network+, AWS) to stand out.
  • Prepare for Interviews – Practice technical questions and be ready to discuss your projects and problem-solving skills.
  • Consider Remote Options – Many cybersecurity internships are virtual, giving you flexibility and access to nationwide opportunities.

Do not let rejections get you down. Rejection is part of the process; even top candidates face it. Each “no” is a step closer to a “yes.” Resilience is one of the most valuable traits in any career