Ask HN: Will an unpaid internship boost my resume?

Posted by jtd00123 on Friday February 16, 2018 @11:30AM
from the ask-hn dept.

I am about to graduate with a degree that is heavily programming based while working as a Math TA. That said, I need to gain some experience. My issue is that I've sent out about 10-15 resumes and the only one that has gotten back to me so far was an unpaid position with a startup.

I'm pretty sure I have landed the position, and they are working on an Android app, which I would like to gain experience with. That said, the company isn't well known (keep in mind I don't live in a tech epicenter). I already have some experience contributing to somewhat menial projects for nonprofits.

My question is, would this experience boost my resume? Or would employers look down on taking a position without pay?

( 2 comments | on HN )

Re:Ask HN: Will an unpaid internship boost my resume? by itamarst on Friday February 16, 2018 @11:36AM (#16393522)

Unpaid positions are illegal, just FYI: violation of minimum wage laws.

It will give you some experience, yes, but someplace that's not even willing to pay you a little isn't necessarily going to put much effort into teaching you, either.

Maybe you need a better resume, or a better job search process? Happy to do review resume - send me an email at [email protected]

[ Parent | on HN ]

Re:Ask HN: Will an unpaid internship boost my resume? by jtd00123 on Friday February 16, 2018 @12:10PM (#16393809)

Okay thanks! I'll definitely send a resume when I get back home. Really appreciate the help!

[ Parent | on HN ]