engineering internships

<p>I just finished my freshman year at community college and this coming fall i will be transferring to my state school. I would like to get an internship next summer, but i have a few questions. First when do students usually start applying for interships? Since i'm transferring i won't have any gpa until after my first semester. Do a lot of sophomore get internships or is it only juniors?
My resume is also pretty weak. Actually i have nothing on my resume. What are some things i can do this coming fall semester that can help beef it up? I heard that many companies also ask about projects that students have done that relate to their field of interests. Can any of you guys give me some ideas on a project that i can get started on right away?</p>

<p>From my experience, internships are usually posted any time between February and rarely early May. My internship was posted in mid-April. Besides having a good GPA, having relevant undergraduate research really helps. Basically, it’s just like any other job. The employers are going to hire the person with the most experience. Most undergrads have no experience, so any little thing will tip the odds into your favor. </p>

<p>My advice, think about a general career path you’d like to take after college, or even think about which fields you’re interested in. Look for some research opportunities on campus or part time jobs that will grant you experience in those areas (volunteer if you have to). Then you will have something on your resume to impress employers with. It is completely possible to get an internship without doing those things, but from my experience, anything helps.</p>

<p>do schools offer a lot of research opportunities during the school year? i always thought they were only during the summer</p>

<p>It depends on the school. Most engineering programs have a need for undergraduate researchers during the semester, especially the bigger programs. Just ask professors in your area of interest.</p>

<p>are there any projects i can start working on myself? Also if i built a guitar pedal, would i be able to put that on my resume?</p>