How to Get an Internship at Google

It’s one of the most ubiquitous businesses in the world; so ubiquitous, in fact, that you’ve probably already used it several times today. Google is one of the world’s most successful companies, from its household name as an online search engine, to its recent foray into the world of electric vehicles. It seems the company has got its hands in just about every sector, which means it has a great need for thousands (perhaps even millions) of employees, many of whom begin as interns. If you’re a young professional, considering an internship with the behemoth corporation may be a good way to break into just about any industry, from advertising to technology, and everything in between. Here’s some pertinent information about landing an internship within Google’s organization.

First, prospective hirees should explore Google Careers, the one-stop shop for all things Google employment. Students have their own section, where they can use a simple search function to locate the kinds of jobs most appealing. For instructional purposes, let’s pretend you’re into marketing. Once you’ve entered that into the search field, Google does what it does best and searches its entire database of job openings and matches you with results involving marketing. Users have the option to get e-mailed updates with new listings, and there are a handful of filters you can use to narrow down your results, based on location, division, job title, and more (see below).

If you’re looking specifically to become an intern, it’s important to use the filters to reflect that, but the same system is used for all forms of employment. Generally speaking, interns are hired while in the pursuit of earning a degree, allowing them to earn college credits for their internship work. However, non-students are free to apply, as well. Once you’ve found a result that piques your interest, the next step is to click on it and to follow the instructions for applying located therein. Each position will vary in terms of what it’s asking for, so make sure to read carefully and to supply them with all of the proper documentation.

If you’re still wondering if Google is the right place for you, visiting the Googe for Education page can be an insightful first step. Here, you can read up about the various programs offered specifically for students, including Google Teacher Academy, the Computer Science Summer Institute, the Google Policy Summit, and many more. Also located here is information about Google Scholarships, which “aim to inspire and help students become future leaders in computing and technology by breaking down the barriers that prevent them from entering these fields.”

Lastly, getting a sense of what the cultural atmosphere is like at Google can help you decide if it would be a comfortable fit for you. The Life at Google page includes snapshots of current employees and their respective stories in addition to valuable information about the diversity within Google. Also provided is a load of information about the corporation’s various employee perks and benefits, which include things like health insurance, paid family leave, education reimbursement, and affordable legal aid.

Sounds pretty good, right? Interning at Google is an excellent way to become part of one of the world’s most expansive businesses, which pretty much ensures you’ll have job security and the ability to live anywhere in the world. As with any internship, it’s important to perform well at school, become involved with campus organizations, and to be pro-active about following up on opportunities. For more information about Google, check out our feature on life at the Googleplex, the corporation’s sprawling HQ and campus.