One of the most frustrating parts of the internship search process is the pressure that frequently comes from your parents.  For most, it’s a huge paradox, you want them off your back, but you ask them to proof your cover letter and pass your resume to friends. 

Your parents are an important tool in your job searching lives.  They have been around the horn and can offer some serious guidance.  The catch of coarse is that this often opens flood doors of constant questioning and concern.

Family networking

Your parents should be included in the first round of your networking life.  They are the easy to approach and will always be your biggest ally. Ask your parents about their friends and your extended family members - maybe some distant cousin works in a field you’re interested in.  Working connections through your family may be very beneficial and it is takes little trouble and time.  Don’t wait until you have exhausted all your other resources before asking help from the family.  Keep this as a low pressure alternative from the start – if it doesn’t work out there are many other networking communities to tap into. And remember - never feel like you got a cheap “in” if the connection came through your parents.  A foot in the door is a foot in the door; you’re on your own after that.