An MBA internship gives you an introduction to the industry that you want to work in after graduation. With the right preparation, you could land an internship that leads to a job with the company of your dreams. Follow these steps during your first year of business school to increase your chances of securing the best possible internship position.

1. Take Advantage of School Opportunities

Your school is one of the most important resources you have for finding and landing an internship. Keep an eye out for events that bring recruiters onto campus. Attend any that are relevant to your chosen industry, and learn as much as you can about available positions, prerequisites and application procedures.

Talk with the school’s career services department about what they can do to help you in your quest for an internship. They may be able to assist with paperwork and other preparations or put you in touch with alumni who can tell you more about the process.

2. Leverage Your Network

Knowing someone with connections to the company you want to work with can increase your chances of getting an internship. Find out who in your network has ties in the industry. Ask if they would be able to introduce you to the people in charge of placing interns. This is another area where communicating with alumni can be helpful. Graduates should still have ties to the companies they did their internships with and can offer advice on the best way to get in touch with recruiters.

3. Polish Your Resume

Think of your resume as a paper version of yourself. It should contain everything you want companies to know about you including educational background, prior work experience, organizations you’ve volunteered with, special skills and notable awards. Work with a career counselor at your school to lay this information out in the best possible format. Ask about other things you can do to make your resume more attractive to the companies you want to intern with. You should do as much as you can to stand out from among the dozens of other applicants.

4. Lay the Right Foundation

Once you know where you want to do your internship and have started sending in applications, you can begin to tailor your academic career to provide relevant training. Sign up for classes in the spring semester that will bolster your skills in necessary areas. If there are clubs you can join, events you can participate in or groups you can volunteer with, the semester before your internship is the time to get involved. You’ll get the experience you need to succeed and have more to add to your resume.

5. Master the Interview

Do your research before going in for an internship interview with any company. Read up on their mission statement, company culture, goals, visions and expectations for interns. Go into the interview knowing everything that you possibly can about the industry so that you can make a good impression. If possible, speak with previous interns to find out more about the interview process. Being prepared shows that you’re willing to work hard and give your all in any job.

After landing the internship that you want, take every possible opportunity to show the company what you can do. Make contacts with important members of the staff and executive committee, and stay in touch once the internship is over. Remember that your internship offers the chance to secure a job where your passion lies, and the more you show your dedication to that passion, the better chance you have of transitioning from intern to employee.