How to Get Paid Internships for Writing

Paid writing internships are valuable.

Though many writing internships are available, many are not paid. Some offer college credit. That is why it is important to have a competitive resume, a well-written cover letter, strong writing samples and a good idea about where to look for internships. The web is filled with sites where you can seek writing-specific internships in journalism, media, communications, public relations or similar writing jobs. Writing internships vary from newspaper work to public relations copywriting. It's important to know what you want.

Things You'll Need

• Computer

Instructions

1. 

   Study the sort of writing you want to pursue.

   Study writing. Take courses that focus on writing. If possible, major in English, creative writing, literature or journalism. Familiarize yourself with the internship's writing style. For example, if the internship you desire is one that focuses on journalism writing, familiarize yourself with journalistic styles, including news and feature writing.

2. 

   Design a relevant cover letter and resume.

   Design a good cover letter and resume. Make sure that the resume contains relevant writing roles. Elaborate on the duties of those roles so the employer can see your experience in writing-related fields. Mention any certifications, prizes, published works and writing courses taken.

   Write a cover letter that describes the candidate in a good light---mention an instance of writing experience and elaborate on it, whether it was the process of writing a published piece or the candidate's passion for breaking news. Make sure that the cover letter reveals the candidate in a professional yet personal light.

3. 

   Writers should provide strong writing samples.

   Provide appropriate writing samples when requested. Sometimes employers will request a sample so they can see your writing's strength. If you're applying for an internship with a public relations company, be prepared to provide copy that reflects the advertising and marketing voice. If applying to a news organization, provide a news piece.

4. 

   Visit websites that offer internship information.

   Apply for internships. Carefully follow the guidelines about what to send to employers. Some request writing samples, while others do not. Some request a cover letter in the body of the email.

   Visit the Ed2010 website for various writing-related internships. Most of these internships revolve around journalism and web writing. While many are paid, some are not. The site will specify.

   Visit MediaBistro. This website provides internships and writing jobs for media and communications companies. Many of the internships are paid, but others are not.

   Visit JournalismJobs or BookJobs to find internships in journalism or book publishing. Journalists and book editors alike need interns to write short pieces, book blurbs and other copy.

   Log onto PW at "Poets & Writers Magazine" for literary internships. This site periodically updates listings for literary interns who want to write for literary journals, magazines or writing organizations.

References

• Ed2010
• Media Bistro
• Journalism Jobs
• Book Jobs
• Poets & Writers

Resources

• College Board: How to Find an Internship