University Career Services
Northwestern University
Internship Search: Nonprofit Insider Advice
In addition to the basic skills needed to perform the job, you need to convey passion for the organization and what you will be doing.
Since many nonprofit employees fill several different roles in an organization, competitive candidates need to also demonstrate transferable skills.
If an organization of interest has never hired an intern, don’t let this stop you from approaching them about considering you and what you can offer.
Highlight volunteer experience as this demonstrates commitment and familiarity with nonprofit organizations.
Hiring Cycle
Professional Associations
Nonprofit organizations typically practice “just in time hiring” which means when there is a current need they work to fill that need. For this reason, it would not be uncommon for an organization to post openings during the spring quarter. Common exceptions to this hiring practice include large organizations or those that have a formally developed internship program. In this case, opportunities will likely be posted during the winter quarter.
Utilize Professional Associations for industry research, identifying potential employers, and developing your network. as a student member
Market Your Skills
American Association of Grant Professionals National Association of Youth Service Consultants Society for Nonprofit Organizations Young Nonprofit Professionals Association
NU students have worked @
Creativity
Time Management
American Cancer Society
Jumpstart
Multi-Tasking
Service Orientation
BRAC USA
Make-a-Wish Foundation
Interpersonal
Writing
Center for Community Change
National Environmental Health Association
Center for Science in the Public Interest
National Immigration Justice Center
Chicago Youth Centers
PEER Services
American Humanics http://www.humanics.org
Death Penalty Worldwide
Planned Parenthood
Campus Compact http://www.compact.org/
Design for America
Public Allies
Guidestar www.guidestar.com
Harlem RBI
Rotary International
Idealist www.idealist.org
Girls in the Game
Smart Growth America
LEAP www.leap.org
Globe Med
Upwardly Global
NPO.net (Chicago Specific) www.npo.net
Habitat for Humanity
Urban Justice Center
Opportunity Knocks www.opportunityknocks.org
Heartland Alliance
Women in Progress
Search Tools
University Career Services Main Location: 620 Lincoln Street Career Lab: Main Library, Core Reserves, 2nd Flr Phone: 847-491-3700
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