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The COVID-19 pandemic shifted the landscape of internships, giving rise to more remote-only opportunities. Even as companies have gone back to in-person and hybrid work, many have made remote internships a permanent offering. As a result, you are not necessarily limited by geography when looking for a college internship. But are virtual internships valuable?

The short answer is, yes. However, there are some steps you may want to take to ensure you get the most you can out of the experience. Here are key things to know about remote college internships.

Finding Remote Internships

Colleges usually have information about internships, both those that are available during the school year and summer internships. Students can check in with their school’s career center and see what intel it has on remote internships.

Students who are looking for remote internships can also get in touch with those in the alumni organization, ask around in their personal networks, and see if their schools will be hosting any job fairs during the upcoming semester.

You might also check out the Virtual Student Federal Service, which matches students with projects from a variety of federal agencies. This program is virtual, students can be in charge of their timetable, and the commitment is 10 hours a week. The application period for the program is July 1-31 every year.


💡 Quick Tip: Some lenders help you pay down your student loans sooner with reward points you earn along the way

Creating a Home Office to Support Success

Working from home is a new experience for some people, so creating an environment that helps to maintain focus and health is key to success.

As with any office building, there are a few things that can be done to make the space healthier.

Those who will be spending most of the day in their home office may want to consider opening the windows, keeping the space clean, and investing in an air purifier.

A key piece of staying productive and reducing stress is having an organized space. When working from home, it helps to have a desk free of clutter.

Research has shown that maintaining an organized space helps with cognition, emotional health, and behavior. All of these factors contribute to how people perform at work.

Succeeding at an internship as well as at school could be challenging for students.

Setting boundaries for their work may help with prioritizing and prevent students from losing valuable study time.
Having set work hours can make it easier for students to turn “off” work mode and transition into study or relaxation mode.

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Paying Attention to Health

Students should also be aware of the impact that working from home can have on their physical health.

Long hours on a computer, both writing papers and doing work for their internship, can take a toll.

To prevent eye strain, students can adopt the 20-20-20 rule. It goes like this: Every 20 minutes, look at an object at least 20 feet away for 20 seconds.

In addition to preventing eye strain, students may want to pay attention to their posture throughout the day.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends working in a neutral position that won’t strain joints and tendons, and changing positions, stretching, and walking throughout the day, as well as performing some tasks while standing.

Physical health isn’t the only kind that can be affected by spending long periods of time at home.

Some people have reported that working from home caused them to feel more stress, whereas others said it reduced stress. Since this varies, students will have to keep an eye out for mental well-being during a remote internship.

To take care of their mental health, students can implement routines like walking, meditating, and calling friends.

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Finding Value in Virtual Networking

Video calls are a great way to connect and network with others virtually.

Emails and phone calls are still important pieces of remote work, but with video calls, it’s easier to connect with remote co-workers and better understand them during meetings.

Nonverbal communication skills are essential to good communication.

This means that networking virtually is possible. Networking during an internship is important because internships have the potential to turn into full-time positions.

Asking colleagues to get together for a video chat to ask questions or better understand their position could improve the chance of being offered a job at the end of the internship.

Networking virtually takes planning and intentional communication, because coworkers can’t bond over lunch or chat at the water cooler.

Setting up a virtual chat to get to know colleagues better can demonstrate the ability to take initiative and how serious the intern is taking the position.

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Starting Off on the Right Foot

A virtual internship is going to work a bit differently from an in-person internship, which means students should be ready to ask a lot of questions.

Before beginning the internship, prepare a list of questions to ask the employer via email or video chat.

Asking questions can help students develop important leadership skills, so it’s a good habit to develop during an internship.

Starting an internship off right also involves setting up regular check-ins with a manager. They may do this already, but if not, it’s OK to ask for it to be implemented.

Receiving regular feedback can improve performance, and therefore help students get the most out of their internships.

Juggling studies and a remote internship may be intense, so part of being prepared is getting a calendar to track important dates and internship tasks.

Blocking off time in a calendar to focus on the internship tasks could prevent moments of burnout and overwhelm.

Brushing Up On the Tech

Before beginning a virtual internship, it could help students to get familiar with the common platforms that are used in remote work for communication, task management, file sharing, and online calendars.

Each workplace is going to use different programs; some may prefer Asana versus Trello when it comes to task management, and some may prefer Slack versus Basecamp for communication within the team.

There are tons of programs out there to make virtual work easier. Interns won’t be able to learn them all, but brushing up on what’s popular may ease anxiety and increase feelings of preparedness.

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Documenting Your Success

It can be really easy to forget all that has been accomplished during an internship.

Most internships last a whole semester (or summer), and if students aren’t tracking what their tasks and accomplishments are, they may forget them.

This is important information for students to keep for both themselves and their managers.

Keeping things documented can help students easily add their accomplishments and new skills to their resume.

It will also make it easier for managers to write a letter of recommendation at the end of the internship.

With luck, the manager will remember the best of the accomplishments, but if they’re managing a large team it could be difficult for them to write a letter without reference points.

A letter of recommendation can help students once they enter the workforce and begin applying for jobs.


💡 Quick Tip: It’s a good idea to understand the pros and cons of private student loans and federal student loans before committing to them.

Keeping the Financial Support Flowing

Many college internships are paid, but some are not. Either way, you’ll likely still need financial support to cover the cost of college — which usually goes well beyond tuition.

Your funding options include federal aid (including grants, scholarships, and subsidized student loans), savings, help from parents or others, and private student loans.

It’s generally recommended that students exhaust all options of federal aid (including federal loans) before moving on to private loans.

Federal loans come with benefits that students may not find elsewhere, such as income-based student loan repayment plans.

If you still have gaps in funding, you may want to apply for a private student loan. These are available from banks, credit unions, and online lenders. Rates and terms are determined by the lender. Students who have excellent credit (or can recruit a cosigner who does) generally qualify for the lowest rates.

If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.

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SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

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They call San Diego “America’s Finest City” for good reason: It has year-round sunshine, gorgeous beaches, and plenty to see, do, and eat. There are parks, museums, zoos, baseball games, and vineyards waiting for you to explore.

The challenge will be narrowing down the things to do so they fit into the time you have for your San Diego vacation. But here’s help: an insider’s list of the top 10 fun things to do in this fantastic city, plus tips on planning a perfect trip.

Best Times to Go to San Diego

If you’re looking for great weather for your San Diego trip, any time of year is a good one. Temperatures are a little cooler in the winter (usually in the 60s) and can get as high as the 90s in the summer, though the average falls more in the range of high 70s to 80s.

There are a few events held throughout the year you might want to plan around:

•  January: Farmers Insurance Open (golf)

•  June/July: San Diego County Fair

•  July: Comic-Con International

•  July-September: Del Mar Racing Season

•  September: Miramar Air Show

•  November: Beer Week

•  November: San Diego Bay Wine + Food Festival

Bad Times to Go to San Diego

There really are no bad times to visit San Diego, though you will find most of the bigger events and festivals fall in the summer. The ocean water is cool throughout the year, so if taking a swim is high on your list, aim for the hotter summer months.

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Average Cost of a San Diego Vacation

If you’re already planning your San Diego trip, you’ll want to create a budget. Traveling solo? The average cost for a weeklong trip is $1,886. For a couple, that cost is $3,387.

Hotel prices range from $80 to $267 a night or higher if you like to stay in posh accommodations, and vacation rentals are $250 to 610 a night. The level of luxury you want in your accommodations, as well as whether you dine out or eat in will impact your vacation budget. (Of course, you can also find ways to save on hotel costs, by becoming a member at a hotel chain’s website and via other smart strategies.)

You can save on your trip if you use a travel rewards credit card that lets you accumulate and redeem points for rewards. You might compare credit card miles vs. cash back to see which is a better fit.

When budgeting for your trip, you’ll also want to include transportation to and from San Diego. For those who live nearby or are frugal travelers, that will mean a drive or a bus or train ride. For others, it means plane tickets.

You may also want to set aside some money for trip insurance, just in case your plans don’t unfold smoothly. You may have credit card travel insurance, or you might buy a separate policy.

10 Fun Must-Dos in San Diego

Here are some of the best things to do in San Diego, based on recommendations from locals and knowledgeable travelers, as well as popular tourist websites.

Keep in mind that San Diego has several distinct neighborhoods, including North Park, South Park, Mission Hills, Normal Heights, Kensington, and more. Each is walkable and filled with restaurants, shops, and events to keep you engaged. Now, consider this list of the best things to do when vacationing in San Diego.

1. Explore Balboa Park

Balboa Park was the setting for the 1915 Panama-California Exposition, and, since then, it has become an icon in the city. Home to the Comic-Con Museum, Fleet Science Center, Japanese Friendship Garden, Mingei International Museum, the San Diego Zoo, and much more, the park is also filled with free things to do in San Diego. You can spend hours here, exploring all of the attractions, and, since there isn’t an admission fee, this can be a way for families to afford to travel.

However, some of the specific museums will charge for entry, so do a bit of research before you head over. balboapark.org/

2. Check out the San Diego Zoo

One of the top things to do in San Diego is to visit the zoo or its sister location, Safari Park. In addition to being able to see animals like sloths, koalas, giraffes, and elephants, you can also take part in exclusive experiences that bring you up close and personal with some of your favorite creatures. Tickets are typically $61 for kids ages 3 to 11, and $71 for ages 12 and up. (Ticket prices at the separate Safari Park are similarly priced.) The zoo is usually open daily, though hours can vary, sometimes as long as from 9 am to 9 pm. Check the website before visiting. zoo.sandiegozoo.org/

3. Explore North Park

If you’re seeking things to do in San Diego for adults and you like beer, head to the neighborhood of North Park. This hipster ‘hood is in the heart of San Diego and is home to some of the best breweries in this city known for its stellar craft beer. The neighborhood is highly walkable, and you’ll also find great options for dining and shopping. sandiego.org/explore/downtown-urban/north-park-south-park.aspx

4. Raise a Glass

If wine’s more your thing, one of the things to do in San Diego for couples or friends is to visit Temecula wine country, just an hour north of San Diego. This hidden gem offers more than 50 wine varietals, including award-winning versions of Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc, Merlot, Mourvedre, Viognier, Chardonnay, and sparkling wines.
Many of the wineries have on-site restaurants, and some even offer live music. When heading to this area and maybe buying some bottles to take home, consider paying with plastic and snag some credit card rewards. temeculawines.org/

5. Stroll Around the Hotel del Coronado

One of the most unique things to do in San Diego is to visit the historic Hotel del Coronado. Known as “Hotel Del” to locals, this hotel was first opened in 1888, and was the setting for the film “Some Like it Hot” starring Marilyn Monroe. Set by the sea, this iconic red-roofed Victorian resort is a fascinating place to visit.

Even if you don’t stay at the hotel, you can explore its shops, restaurants, and beach. During the Christmas holidays, the hotel is transformed into a winter wonderland, complete with outdoor ice skating rink. hoteldel.com/

6. Catch a Ballgame

Baseball fans shouldn’t miss a San Diego Padres game at downtown’s Petco Park. The season is March through October, though there are also special events and tours at Petco Park.

Dining options at the park highlight some of the best restaurants and breweries in the city, including Hodad’s, Seaside Market, and Gaglione Brothers. mlb.com/padres/ballpark

7. Hit the Beach

If getting some sand between your toes is on your must-do list for your San Diego vacation, the iconic Mission Beach should be on your agenda. Anchored by the amusement park known as Belmont Park, Mission Beach offers two miles of boardwalk if you crave a bike ride, jog, or rollerblade. The beaches (and parking lots) can fill up, especially in the summer, so arrive early and plan to stay all day.

Are you traveling with pets? Leashed dogs are allowed on the beach at certain hours, so this might be a good place to explore together.

There are plenty of places to get a cocktail or meal along the boardwalk. The dress code? Flip flops and swimsuits! sandiego.org/explore/things-to-do/beaches-bays/mission-beach.aspx

8. Sample Some Nightlife

If you’re looking for things to do in San Diego at night, Gaslamp Quarter may have what you need. Filled with nightclubs, bars (including rooftop options), and restaurants, it’s a popular scene. Whether you’re in the mood to dance, catch a comedy show, try an escape game, or hear music, you’ll find it here. gaslamp.org/

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9. See What Old Town Offers

One of the fun things to do in San Diego for all ages is visit Old Town, the birthplace of California. Filled with historic buildings that have been turned into restaurants and shops, Old Town is a great place to learn about the early days of San Diego.

There is also a “hop on, hop off” trolley tour that stops in Old Town, so you can see more of the city. oldtownsandiego.org/

10. Marvel at the Maritime Museum

The Maritime Museum, located on the Embarcadero, consists of more than a dozen sailing ships, submarines, and steam-powered ships that you can climb aboard and explore. Don’t miss the Star of India, the world’s oldest active sailing ship. Open daily from 10 am to 5 pm (last admission at 4 pm), the museum charges $20 admission for adults; $10 for children ages 3 to 12. sdmaritime.org/

The Takeaway

San Diego offers sun, fun, and plenty of things to do. It can be a great destination year-round, and whether you’re a couple in search of nightlife and wine tastings or a family who wants to spend the day at the zoo, you’ll find all kinds of amazing attractions in this Southern California city.

SoFi Travel is a new service offered exclusively to SoFi members. Earn 2x rewards when booking with your SoFi Mastercard or debit card. Then apply those rewards to your next trip when you book through our travel portal. SoFi makes planning a getaway fast, easy, and convenient — perfect for people on the move.

FAQ

When is the best time to visit San Diego?

San Diego sees sunshine year-round, so any time is a good time to visit. However, the weather is warm but not too hot and the crowds are fewer between March and May and September to November.

What are things to do at night in San Diego?

San Diego has a robust nightlife in certain neighborhoods. North Park is known for its craft beer and restaurants, while Gaslamp Quarter is filled with nightclubs and bars.

What are things to do in Balboa Park in San Diego?

Balboa Park is home to numerous museums as well as the San Diego Zoo. It also hosts events throughout the year, including December Nights during the holiday season.

Photo credit: iStock/SeanPavonePhoto
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