How can you find the best visual effects internships?

2 Build your portfolio and resume

To apply for visual effects internships, you need to have a portfolio and a resume that showcase your skills and achievements. Your portfolio should include your best visual effects work, such as personal projects, school assignments, or freelance work. You should select the work that demonstrates your proficiency in the software and techniques relevant to the internships you are applying for. You should also include a breakdown of your work, explaining the steps and tools you used to create the visual effects. Your resume should highlight your education, experience, awards, and skills related to visual effects. You should also include any relevant extracurricular activities, such as clubs, competitions, or workshops. You should tailor your portfolio and resume to each internship application, emphasizing the skills and work that match the specific requirements and expectations of the employer.

3 Network and research

One of the most effective ways to find the best visual effects internships is to network and research. Networking means connecting with people who work in the visual effects industry or who can refer you to potential opportunities. You can network by attending events, such as conferences, festivals, or meetups, where you can meet and talk to visual effects professionals and peers. You can also network online, by joining forums, groups, or platforms, such as LinkedIn, where you can follow and interact with visual effects companies and artists. Networking can help you learn more about the industry, the latest trends and technologies, and the available internships. Research means finding and collecting information about the visual effects companies and studios that offer internships. You can research by visiting their websites, social media pages, or blogs, where you can see their work, their culture, their values, and their internship programs. You can also research by reading reviews, testimonials, or articles about their internships, where you can get insights into their application process, their expectations, and their feedback. Researching can help you identify and target the internships that suit your goals and interests, and prepare your application accordingly.

4 Apply and follow up

Once you have found the internships that interest you, you need to apply and follow up. Applying means submitting your portfolio, resume, and cover letter to the employer, following their instructions and deadlines. Your cover letter should explain why you are interested in the internship, what skills and experience you have, and what you hope to learn and contribute. You should also express your enthusiasm, professionalism, and personality. You should proofread your application and make sure it is clear, concise, and error-free. Following up means contacting the employer after you have applied, to confirm your application, ask for updates, or thank them for their consideration. You should follow up politely and respectfully, without being too pushy or impatient. You should also be prepared for potential interviews or tests, where you can demonstrate your knowledge, skills, and passion for visual effects. Following up can help you stand out from the crowd, show your interest and commitment, and increase your chances of getting the internship.

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?