An internship is a great way to get that first step on the career ladder, but every year thousands of smart and talented students struggle to get a graduate internship. In this article we look at the top 10 mistakes students make

Obtaining an internship is an excellent way to advance one's career. Not only can students learn new skills, but they can gain valuable experience that looks very impressive on their CVs. Even more, internships help students become comfortable with how the workforce is before they actually enter it.

Unfortunately, many students don't benefit from internships because they are never accepted into an internship programme. Every single year, hundreds of thousands of smart and talented students find themselves struggling to get in the door.

Here are the top 10 internship mistakes to avoid:

1) Not Caring
Shockingly, many university students seem as if they don't really care about their careers. They act as if they don't really want an internship. Change your attitude today. Internships can become high-paying jobs. It happens all the time.

2) Procrastinating
Many students who do want internships often procrastinate about finding and applying for the opportunities. This is a deadly mistake. Many programmes have early deadlines. For instance, most summer internships start recruiting in the winter. Start searching and applying now.

3) Not Keeping Your Grades Up
An internship is like a job. Why would a company want to hire you if your grades are bad? It is very important to keep your grades above average. Many times a 2.1 or higher is sufficient.

4) Not Utilising Your Resources
Every university has guidance counselors and a career center. You should stop by and meet these people because they are there to help you. Often, companies that are looking to hire interns will ask them for recommendations.

5) Not Devoting Enough Time
You get out, what you put in. Don't just spend five minutes applying for internships. Try to spend at least one to three hours a week. Remember that you want to take the time to find the opportunities that are most relevant to you.

6) Racing Through Applications
Don't fill out an application just to get it over with. Be sure to read the instructions, and give thought-provoking answers for essay questions. Also, be sure to not misspell words - especially your own name or the university you're attending.

7) Not Having Good References
Many internship applications require that you list references that they can follow up with to confirm that you are a good applicant. Don't list your family members or friends. List lecturers or advisers that you know will vouch for you.

8) Messing Up The Interview
If you are called in for an interview, be sure to treat it like a job interview. Dress neatly and appropriately, and bring copies of your CV. Show up on time, and be sure to look the interviewer in the eye when speaking. Also, shake their hand firmly before leaving.

9) Not Following Up
Don't make the mistake of not following up after the interview. The week of the interview, send a brief thank you card to the person who interviewed you. The next week, call or email your contact to see what the status is.

10) Not Being Persistent
Getting an internship requires patience and persistence. Don't give up. Keep filling out applications and submitting your CV to as many companies and organisations as possible. Remember that there are tons of opportunities available. With hard work and determination, you will eventually reach your goal.

FindInternships.com is a free online directory with hundreds of internship opportunities in America.