What is Internship Connect?

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Internship Connect is your chance to speak directly with companies and organizations seeking RISD interns! Learn about their internship opportunities and practice how you introduce yourself to professionals. Make contacts with key people and gain valuable tips on presenting a strong application. Be prepared before the event with the materials they would like to see. Make a lasting impression and stay connected to the professionals you meet for future opportunities. 

The event is in person, taking place on the 1st floor of 20 Washington Place. It occurs between 4pm-7pm. Students are welcome to attend anytime during that window, for as long as they wish.

First Year Undergraduate Students are not eligible to do internships for credit until starting their Sophomore year at RISD and are therefore unable to attend this event. 

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Who can attend? 

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Open to enrolled Sophomores, Juniors, Seniors and Graduate RISD Students. 

First year undergraduate students are not eligible. 

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IMPORTANT REMINDER: If you have class during Internship Connect, you MUST get permission from your faculty for an excused absence prior to attending.

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How do I participate? 

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There are 20+ organizations attending, spanning the professional world of art & design. Each organization will have at least one representative avaialble to speak with students and answer questions about what they do and internships they may offer. This is an in-person internship fair style event, so students are free to speak with anyone they are interested in.

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Conversations are limited to 5-10 minutes. This allows for meaningful connections, but also ensures many students get the chance to talk to organizations they are interested in.

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Please note: Each organization will also have a QR code at their table where students can do a "digital resume drop" that will allow them to share their resume with the organization for future consideration. Register in ArtWorks any time before October 21st!

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What do I share with professionals? 

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• PDF resume

• PDF portfolio sample (optional)

• Convey your short term career goals, your employment search for the summer and your interest in the company you are speaking with. 

• Ask thoughtful questions of the employer regarding upcoming recruitment needs, how the creative process works at the organization, and ask for insights with the employer's industry. 

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How should I dress? 

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Dress intentionally, express yourself and show you care. Professionalism in your appearance is a compliment to the quality of your work.

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What should I say to professionals? 

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• Know Your Audience: Students are expected to research the companies or organizations they will be meeting with. Review their websites prior to your portfolio reviews; make notes as you go and develop questions you would like to ask them.
   

• Introduce Yourself: Begin by thanking the professional for meeting with you, tell them your name, year in school and major. Explain why you are interested in their company and that you appreciate their feedback and insights on what's expected in a portfolio from applicants.
   

• Show Respect & Say Thank You: Respect and gratitude goes a long way and makes an excellent professional impression. Also, follow up with a thank you note to the reviewers who made an impact on you – written is ideal, email works, too!

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What if I need help during Internship Connect?​

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The Career Center will be at the event, ready to assist with any last minute questions or problems throughout the duration of the event. 

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