Gaining Experience 

Most students at NC State obtain career-related experience prior to graduation. This may be accomplished through internships, co-op, research, and projects.. How much experience is enough? One to three is typical and allows you to mix in study abroad, volunteering, summer school and other valuable opportunities for personal and professional development.

Internships
Summer internships are most popular at NC State. You may intern for the same or different employer each summer.  This flexibility gives you exposure to a variety of organizations, industries, and career environments.  Though most students intern during the summer, some choose to intern part-time or full-time during the semester. The choice is yours. You may start interning at any time.

Internships are paid in all technical fields and most non-technical fields.
Get started: activate your ePACK account and print the job & internship checklist.  

Co-op
Cooperative education is an academic program that combines coursework with experience by alternating semesters of each.  You are eligible to co-op after your first year at NC State (or first semester as a transfer or graduate student.)  Program completion includes one year of full-time work with the same employer.  Fee: $338. per co-op to maintain student status.  

Co-ops are paid in all fields.
Get started: attend a co-op orientation.

Projects & volunteer experiences
Many of you are involved with career-related projects and/or volunteer experiences.  These may be personal projects or formal projects through a class, student group, or community organization.  Employers are interested in these accomplishments.  Be sure to document your experience and capture the details for your resume and interview.