Mentorship vs. Internship: Your Guide to Building a Successful Creative Career

Internships and mentorships can be a great way to gain practical experience, develop your skills, and build your professional network. Although these types of career opportunities are typically temporary positions and may not lead to permanent employment, they sometimes do!

In this article we explore the difference between a mentorship and internship and how you can land an opportunity for either, or both!

Mentorships and internships are two different types of learning experiences. Here's the difference between them:

Mentorships

To get a mentorship, you need to find a mentor who is experienced and knowledgeable in your field or industry. You can network and reach out to people in your professional or academic circles, attend industry events, or join professional organisations to find a mentor.

This mentorship will help me to see how the artists I’ve always looked up to, do their daily work. Rasmus is a great artist and a very approachable mentor; with his guidance I know I’ll gain the needed perspective for studio life and will significantly improve my work.

Laura López López, Voxel School and Rookie Awards 2022, IO Interactive Mentorship winner.

Read the full article about Laura's Mentorship experience here.

How to find the perfect creative mentor

Start with your instructors at school. Get to know your instructor and build a relationship with them. Participate in class discussions and ask thoughtful questions - this will help your instructor get to know you better and understand your goals and interests. If you are clear about your goals, your instructor will now how to help you achieve them. And, don't be afraid to ask for advice or feedback - your instructor will offer insights and perspectives that you hadn't considered before.
Join Discord Groups. The Rookies Discord Channel is a great way to share your work and meet peers and industry peeps who are always willing to help and give feedback.
Reach out to industry professionals. Often schools, especially our Rookies Certified Schools, will have strong connections with industry; individuals or studios who are willing to support their students' journey. Why not reach out to such an industry peer or professional who inspires you, and ask if they would be willing to mentor you. If you don't ask, you don't get right? Remember that these individuals are likely very busy, so be respectful of their time. Schedule meetings in advance, and be prepared with questions or topics to discuss.

Mentorships available now

Your timing couldn't be better. The Rookie Awards has just kicked off for 2023 and there are 3 incredible internships up for grabs at these incredible companies. We've included a few extra opportunities that are well worth checking out too.

Internships

To get an internship, you need to find companies or organizations that offer internships in your field or industry. You can search for internships on job boards, company websites, or through your academic institution's career services office.

Apply to the internships that interest you, and be prepared to provide a resume, cover letter, and any other required application materials. If you are selected for an interview, be sure to research the company and prepare thoughtful questions to ask during the interview.

Mentoring is good opportunity to give a leg-up to somebody from an up-and-coming generation of artists. There’s every reason to – not everything has to be learned the hard way. That and the fact that the raw energy and enthusiasm from the mentees is fantastic! That’s what it’s all about.

Rasmus Jørgensen, Senior Concept Artist at IOI and Concept Art Mentor

Finding an Internship

Be prepared! Armed with your hitlist of studios you aspire to work at, do your research and give yourself time to prepare your application material.
Use online resources: There are so many websites that list internship opportunities, such as LinkedIn. This weekly roundup by Connor Woodward is a fantastic place to start!
You can also search for internships on company websites or through professional organisations in your field of interest.
Network! Use your personal and professional networks to find out about potential internship opportunities. Let your friends, family, and professional contacts know that you are searching for an internship, and ask if they know of any opportunities.
Check with your school: Many schools have career services offices that can help you find internship opportunities. They may have connections with companies in your field of interest, and can also help you prepare your application materials.
Attend career fairs and networking events: Career fairs and networking events are a great way to meet potential employers and learn about internship opportunities. Be sure to bring your resume and dress professionally.
Be proactive: Find contests like the Rookie Awards, offering career opportunities and get your work seen. By being proactive and persistent, and putting your best work out there, you can increase your chances of finding an internship that will help you achieve your career goals.

Internships on offer now

Your timing couldn't be better. The Rookie Awards has just kicked off for 2023 and there are 3 incredible internships up for grabs at these incredible companies.

Remember, whether you land a mentorship or internships, both can be a powerful way to kickstart your career.

We are cheering for you, go and get'em tiger!