How a Computer Science Internship Can Help Land Your Dream Job

When you are on a job hunt, one of the most important things to include on your resume is internship experience. An internship shows an employer that you have worked closely with other industry professionals and that you have had hands-on experience in the field. 

This article will discuss what computer science is, the types of internships you can get, the best companies to intern for, and how a computer science internship can help you score a sweet gig.

What Is Computer Science?

Computer science is the study of computer programming, software systems, and accompanying algorithms. It’s a tech field that involves using coding languages and design skills to develop computer programs. 

A computer science internship allows students to gain experience in software development, computer engineering, data analysis, coding, and more. Oftentimes, it is the best way for a student to learn the “ins and outs” of the industry and it gives them the opportunity to come up with a personal voice and original ideas among industry experts. 

Types of Computer Science Internships

Most people decide to pursue an internship while they are simultaneously attending an accredited college for a computer science degree, or immediately after completing a coding bootcamp. There are many different areas of computer science to specialize in, including software engineering, data science, project management, and more. 

Front End Engineering Intern

Front end engineering involves working with what users actually see when they use a site or platform. Front end engineers write code and build user interfaces using languages such as JavaScript and CSS, along with markup languages like HTML. As an intern, you’ll work side-by-side with industry masters, and it will give you the opportunity to help create new systems and work through real-world challenges. If you are interested in design, this is the internship for you. 

Back End Engineering Intern

On the other hand, back end engineering focuses on writing code with Java, Ruby, and Python to connect the server to the database. Back end engineering interns are in charge of writing code and ensuring that the code is working properly, as well as debugging and fixing any problems with the system. This code is translated into how a computer program is used. You will learn how to solve complex problems and you will be given code reviews to help you master the craft. 

Data Science Intern

Data scientists work by gathering, translating, and making insights from data so that companies can make smart business decisions. They use mathematics in computer science, focusing on statistical and quantitative analyses. Data scientists work to better understand consumers by using statistical analyses and models to evaluate social trends. 

An internship in data science would help you learn how to apply and interpret these complex mathematical models and gain insights from the data set. Data science internships can also give you the opportunity to work with Big Data—a rapidly advancing and complex set of data. 

Product Management Intern

Product management professionals work with computer engineers and marketing teams to make sure a product is functioning properly and fits the consumer’s needs. Interns would assist by running quality assurance (QA) tests, determining whether or not the product is up to quality expectations. As an intern, you will help in market research and create a strategy with the engineers and marketing team to create efficient products and successful campaigns. 

Mobile Technology Intern

Smartphones have become one of the most convenient ways for the masses to use virtual internet systems. With both iOS and Android platforms being so popular, this career path has been increasingly sought-after by those majoring in computer science. Mobile technology engineers code for both front end and back end systems, and depending on the platform you’re building for, you will work with different programming languages. You can help create new apps, build mobile features, and ensure every system is user-friendly.

 

Best Companies to Intern For

After deciding to pursue a computer science internship, it can be challenging to know exactly where to look for a good opportunity. By simply researching online, you can find many options but not all internship programs are equal. The right internship program can skyrocket you into the tech industry and eventually help you land your dream career. 

Here is a list of the best companies that typically offer computer science internships:

Apple

Apple is known not only for the very popular iPhones but also their Mac computers and devices. Apple offers internships that allow interns to get hands-on experience with its latest technology. Students can work in data science, product management, computer engineering, or mobile technology. Interns also have an opportunity to learn further about the iOS system and Apple’s coding languages. Interns also get to experience product launches and predictive analysis for future products. 

Apple explains that leadership is a key focus of its internship program as interns are taught and expected to offer original ideas and take the lead. The internship is paid and positions are offered worldwide. 

Google

Google is another well-known company that is continuing to rapidly expand. The company offers paid full-time computer science internships in engineering, programming, product management, and data science. Google’s internship program is called BOLD (Building Opportunities for Leadership and Development) and offers students from any kind of background the chance to learn computer science and potentially be hired by the company. 

Facebook

Facebook is another Silicon Valley native, but internship positions are offered all around the world. Facebook values its interns as intelligent and hard-working employees who can offer new concepts and ideas. Former interns have stated that they love the leadership they are given to take on their own projects and develop problem-solving skills. It offers internships in computational imaging, data science, product management, computer engineering, and marketing.

Intel 

Intel offers students the IRISE Software Engineering Internship Program, where interns get to work on professional projects by writing and optimizing code. The internship is full-time and paid, and is considered to be one of the best for mastering the use of coding. The internship gives great networking opportunities and teaches interns how to work on the latest and most advanced computer systems. 

Hewlett Packard

Hewlett Packard (HP) is another well-respected tech company that offers an internship program. The internship program can be full-time or part-time, it is paid, and you can apply for a position based all over the world. Most HP interns are hired as they are completing their third year in their studies. Students have the opportunity to pursue an internship in data science, software engineering, or product management. 

Get a Computer Science Internship Today

A computer science internship is one of the best experiences a student can have. As an intern, you get to work alongside computer science professionals who often deliver the best stories and advice to help guide you along your career path. 

Not only will you have unlimited access to the tips and tricks of the profession, but you can also voice your own original ideas and receive expert feedback. Additionally, future employers are more likely to be confident in your technical ability if they can certify that you have undergone an internship program. This will only boost your chances of landing a desirable role.

On top of that, an internship is one of many opportunities for you to assess your interest and capabilities in a specific field. A computer science internship can be a life-changing experience and it is highly recommended for anyone interested in pursuing a tech career.