What do you do if you want to enhance your portfolio through data visualization internships?

1 Define your goals

Before you start looking for data visualization internships, you need to have a clear idea of what you want to achieve and learn from them. Do you want to improve your technical skills, such as coding, data analysis, or design? Do you want to explore a specific domain, such as health, education, or finance? Do you want to work with a certain type of organization, such as a nonprofit, a startup, or a media outlet? Having a specific goal will help you narrow down your search and tailor your application.

2 Research your options

There are many sources and platforms where you can find data visualization internships, such as online job boards, social media, blogs, newsletters, podcasts, or events. You can also reach out to your network, such as professors, mentors, peers, or alumni, and ask for referrals or recommendations. When you research your options, pay attention to the details of the internship, such as the duration, the compensation, the location, the requirements, and the expectations. You should also look at the previous work and portfolio of the organization or the team you want to join.

3 Prepare your application

Once you have a list of data visualization internships that match your goals and interests, you need to prepare your application materials. These may include your resume, cover letter, portfolio, and references. Your resume should highlight your relevant skills, education, and experience in data visualization. Your cover letter should explain why you are interested in the internship, what you can offer, and what you hope to gain. Your portfolio should showcase your best data visualization projects, with links, screenshots, and descriptions. Your references should be people who can vouch for your skills and work ethic.

4 Ace your interview

If you get invited for an interview, you need to prepare yourself to impress the interviewer and demonstrate your fit for the internship. You should research the organization and the team, review your portfolio and projects, and practice your communication and presentation skills. You should also anticipate some common questions, such as why you want to work in data visualization, what tools and techniques you use, how you approach a data visualization problem, and what are some examples of data visualization that inspire you. You should also prepare some questions for the interviewer, such as what are the goals and expectations of the internship, what are the challenges and opportunities of working in data visualization, and how will you receive feedback and guidance.

5 Learn and grow

If you get accepted for a data visualization internship, you should make the most of it and use it as an opportunity to learn and grow. You should be proactive, curious, and open-minded. You should seek feedback, ask questions, and take risks. You should also network with your colleagues, mentors, and peers, and learn from their experiences and insights. You should document your progress and achievements, and update your portfolio accordingly. You should also reflect on your strengths and weaknesses, and identify areas for improvement and development.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?