How to Find Remote Internships in Computer Science

Classrooms Team

Mar 8, 2021
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Computer science careers are in high demand. The recent COVID-19 pandemic made such roles more vital than ever, as companies scramble to find technology solutions for their workforces.

However, that doesn’t mean that the perfect opportunity will walk up to you and say howdy. If you want a coveted virtual position, you’ll have to do some legwork first. Here’s how to find remote internships in computer science. 

1. Talk to Your Advisor

If you thought your advisor’s job was only to enroll you in water ballet to meet your P.E. requirement, think again. This individual’s entire purpose is to help you plan your academic progression and identify any outside resources that offer information and support for your educational goals. Companies often reach out to such individuals when they have internship opportunities, and they may be able to connect you. 

One benefit of choosing this resource is that the organizations in your advisor’s network understand the necessity of balancing work-school obligations. Your supervisor at such a company is more likely to sympathize with your need for time off during finals than a grocery store or fast food manager. 

2. Connect With Career Exploration 

If your campus has a dedicated career exploration center, make it your second home. You might not even have to get dressed to do so. Thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic, many schools now offer remote appointments to help you with your search. 

Your school’s career exploration center likely also provides information about on-campus opportunities that you can immediately pursue. For example, if you are a junior or senior, your university may need virtual computer science tutors to work with incoming first-year students — it might not be a traditional internship. Still, it pads your resume all the same. 

3. Go Online 

Since you’re probably still spending more time indoors, why not put your internet search skills to good use? One wise place to start is a job board specializing in remote work so that you don’t waste your time filling out applications for internships that require onsite attendance. 

Another method is to go directly to websites for some of the top online tech companies and scroll to their careers page. Before you apply, check out other areas of their site and tailor your resume to align with their mission statement. There’s nothing wrong with approaching each application with the mindset that you will land the interview — you’re just getting ahead on your research for that happy event. 

4. Sign Up for Career Fairs 

Career fairs used to mean schlepping a briefcase full of resumes across town. You had to deal with stressors like worrying that a passing car could splash mud on your interview suit while waiting at the bus stop. 

However, you can now find virtual career fairs, which only makes sense if you plan to work remotely, anyway. You still need to bring your A-game and groom yourself as if you were meeting in person, but you don’t have to worry about travel hassles. 

5. Up Your Networking Game

Much of your life’s success hinges on the relationships you build. Who do you know that could assist you in your job search? If you sat down to brainstorm, you could probably come up with at least a few names. 

If in-person events are a no-go right now, use this time to reconnect. Compose polite emails to those in your circle who might be able to help, and let them know you’re searching. Be polite — please don’t skip niceties like asking how they’ve been. Nearly everyone loves hearing from an old friend, but most folks aren’t as keen on helping when they perceive that someone only contacts them when they need a favor.

6. Attend Online Workshops and Seminars

Even if you are enrolled in an accredited degree program, you can still grow your knowledge-base and get a bit of insight into various companies by taking online workshops and seminars that interest you. Some virtual workshops might cover information you already learned in class but present it differently, making it easier for you to understand. 

In terms of finding a remote internship in computer science, many online workshops feature presenters from various companies — you could get a chance to connect. For example, sites like LinkedIn Learning often feature presenters from industry experts, and they’ll often provide contact information for those who want to learn more about their business services. Once you have it, you can reach out to them to inquire about potential opportunities. 

7. Talk to Your Current Employer

If you already work in a technology-related field while studying, why not talk to your current employer about going remote? Most computer science jobs naturally lend themselves to this format, and even if you have to report to the office now and then, you could work out a flexible schedule.

Find Remote Internships in Computer Science With These Tips 

If you want to find a remote internship in computer science, you have multiple avenues to explore. Please use the tips above to find positions that give you the experience to accelerate your career.

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