NIU’s Career Services Office has helped place hundreds of students in internships of their choice in this semester alone.

From July 1, 2003 to Feb. 28, 2005, 1,158 NIU students have obtained high-level internships through Career Services, said Rick Clark, director of campus relations for Career Services.

Career Services counselor Dan Bingley is a familiar fixture in the Campus Life Building and is the student internship specialist.

“Students who feel intimidated by the prospect of trying to find an internship are in the same boat as 99 percent of all the other students,” Bingley said. “Those who feel intimidation need to know that the No. 1 quality they need to possess is an interest in their field and a desire to learn more.”

Career Services counselors pledge their service and support to NIU students who are still trying to come to terms with joining the post-graduation rat race.

“We are happy to expend whatever energy we need to get employers to hire NIU grads,” said Cindy Henderson, job fair coordinator and counselor at Career Services. “We want our Northern kids to be successful.”

According to NIU job counselors, finding an internship is one of the best avenues a student can take to find his or her niche in a chosen field.

“In order for students to prepare themselves for an internship search, they first need to go online and create a list of interesting employers who are looking for interns,” Clark said. “Then make an appointment with one of our counselors to create a good resume.”

Michele Desecki, a senior corporate communication major, currently serves as an intern at the Career Services office.

“Interning helps you determine whether or not you even like the job in the first place,” Desecki said.

In this semester alone, Career Services has received “interns wanted” notices from the office of Sen. Barack Obama, television and radio stations, museums, government agencies and several not-for-profit organizations. These positions are available to students in any major who show the right amount of drive and courage in getting the positions they are interested in.

Students who are interested in meeting with Career Services counselors can visit the Campus Life Building, Room 220, or call 753-1641 to make an appointment with a counselor.