Marine Living

As a person who has worked in internships related to marine biology, and someone who now reviews applications, interviews and hires interns, I've learned some tips and tricks that might help you land a marine biology internship at the organization of your choice.

From applying for the internship to following-up with your interviewer, following these steps will put you in the running. As for your enthusiasm and qualifications, those are up to you. Good luck and let me know if you have any feedback!

Marine biology is a competitive field and you are often up against many other stellar applicants. Don't let that discourage you, though.

When putting your application together, follow instructions exactly and pay attention to detail. Be honest and thoughtful in your answers. Review the organization's web site beforehand to know what qualifications they're looking for and use those to highlight your relevant skills. Write a stellar resume and cover letter. Proofread your application twice before submitting it.

Many marine biology internship applicants hail from far and wide, making it difficult for an in-person interview. Hence, some organizations will offer a phone interview. Wherever possible, make the effort to meet for an in-person interview.

Scheduling an in-person interview has several benefits: you'll show that you're interested enough in the position to make the effort to visit the organization, plus, you'll get to check out the place where you'll be working and the area you'll be living in if you're lucky enough to get accepted. You might also find that you don't like the area at all and it's not the right fit for you.

Applicants are often too nervous, or unprepared, to ask questions about the position. To an interviewer, you'll likely just appear disinterested. Put yourself in the interviewer's shoes and compare an applicant who simply answers all the interview questions, to one who enthusiastically answers questions and engages the interviewer in a discussion about different aspects of the position and clearly wants to know more about the organization.

You'll likely be working closely with your interviewer, especially in a small organization. Ask how long they've worked there, what they like and don't like about their job, and about the organization's current and future work.

The dreaded question..."Is there anything else you'd like to tell me about yourself?", also known as "Anything else we should know?" or "Do you have any other questions?"

When the interviewer asks that question...say something - anything! This is your chance to make a last - and lasting - impression. Highlight your best qualities or if all else fails, simply say, "Thank you so much for taking the time to interview me. I'm really interested in this position and would love the opportunity to work with you."

View the original article here