So you’ve passed most, if not all, of the subjects of your Computer Science degree. Now what? Well, as a computing major, it’s time for you to venture out, and expose yourself to the professional world through an internship.
Before you apply for jobs or open your own business, you need to experience the dynamics of the field you’re entering. This is so you can assess what career you’re getting into. This experience is invaluable as it teaches you a lot of tricks of the trade, which is why an internship is required for most college degrees, and that includes Computer Programming.
In this article, we’ll be discussing the value behind an internship as well as the types of Computer Science internships available. To add to these, we’ll delve into the usual responsibilities in an internship, how to apply for an internship, and lastly, career opportunities in the Computer Science field of work. Basically, this will give you a preview of everything you need to know after you’re done learning the fundamentals of computer science.
Why get a Computer Science internship?
As a computing major, you’ve been taught a lot of academic and theoretical knowledge in order to be competent in the world of computer science. Through an internship, you’ll be able to apply all that you’ve learned in real-life situations. It also gives you an insight into the kind of job you’ll be having once you’ve graduated.
In addition to this, a lot of employers look into your past internships as a measure of your ambitious drive for your career. Fundamentally, it shows that you have what it takes to thrive in the industry, as well as give them an idea of your value as a member of their workforce.
What types of Computer Science internships are there?
The world of computer science is very broad, which is exciting for computing majors as there are a lot of different choices for them to choose from. Here are some common computer programming internships to give you an idea:
- Front-end engineering. Basically, you’ll learn how to develop the user-facing or front-end side of an application or website. You will get to apply what you’ve learned about HTML, CSS, JavaScript, as well as learn how to test and debug what you’ve created.
- Back-end engineering. Similar to front-end engineering, but you’ll be doing a lot of coding using Ruby, Python and Java. However, you’ll be using data to power an application or website. You’ll also test and debug these products.
- Full-Stack software engineering. Essentially, this is front-end and back-end engineering put together. As an intern, you’ll optimize technological procedures in order to create efficient digital products that cater to the end-user and business.
- Mobile engineering. In an increasingly interconnected world, a lot of people use mobile apps for various reasons. In this type of internship, you’ll get to use code to develop user-facing applications for Android or iOS.
- Product management. You’ll serve as the orchestra maestro between various parties of a project, including developers, designers, and marketing teams. You’ll learn how to devise strategies, execution roadmaps, as well as ensure all products are of good quality.
What are the responsibilities of a Computer Science intern?
As in all types of internships, a computing major will be tasted with some responsibilities. Internships should be viewed like full-time paid positions because basically, you’re in an organization for functionality.
While the actual responsibilities vary per company or organization, here are some common roles of a Computer Science intern:
- Develop and deploy computer software systems
- Testing and debugging systems and software
- Provide onsite support and coordination
Like in any job, it’s important to show up on time, and bring a positive attitude to the table. Your supervisor or immediate superior could influence your transition to the working world, after all.
How do you apply for an internship?
As a highly competitive field, applying for an internship in the world of computer programming requires a lot of persistence and perseverance. In line with this, it would be best if you coordinate with your school’s career planning office regarding the institution’s partners. You can also use your own network in order to secure an internship.
Think of your internship as a full-time job position. In order to get hired, you need to apply at job fairs or try your hand at job-finding websites, such as LinkedIn and Jobstreet. You can even try checking out your dream company, and check if they’re hiring interns.
The actual procedure of application would depend on the company, so it would be best if you read the requirements before sending that company an e-mail or message. You need to be able to sell what you can bring to the table. That’s why you should send your application with a sense of purpose and drive to prove yourself.
What are the career opportunities in Computer Science?
As previously mentioned, the world of computer science is broad. Consequently, there are a lot of job opportunities in the industry as well. Your internship may not guarantee you’ll be landing your dream job, but it definitely gives you a foot inside the door.
In line with this, here are some of the most sought-after careers in computer programming:
- Computer and Information Systems Manager
- Computer Hardware Engineer
- Computer Network Architect
- Computer Network Analyst
- Computer Programmer
- Information Systems Analyst
- Software Developer
These are only some of the plethora of opportunities there are in the wonderful world of computer science. In an era that’s increasingly dependent on the digital sphere, the possibilities of growth are endless. That’s why pursuing Computer Science in a great academic institution such as CIIT Philippines can open a lot of doors for you.
A learning institution that promotes high-quality, industry-based teaching, CIIT Philippines is an accessible yet excellent school to jumpstart your journey into the world of computer science. Check out CIIT Philippines’ college courses today to know more.
