Now in its second year, the Summer Experience Survey (SES) continues to provide valuable insight into how Duke students secure their summer opportunities, from when offers arrive to the types of experiences they pursue. Building on last year’s pilot launch, this year’s survey collected responses from 866 undergraduate students, offering a clearer, more comprehensive view of the timing and trends behind summer placements.
Spring is Prime time for Offers
The vast majority of offers arrived well into the spring semester. In fact, 61% of students received their summer experience offers between March and May, making these three months the most active in the recruiting cycle.
The chart below illustrates that early fall recruitment (August – October 2024) accounted for only a small fraction of offers, while momentum built steadily through the winter. Offer activity surged in March (18%), peaked in April (22%), and remained strong into May (21%).
This pattern emphasizes why students should stay engaged in their searches beyond the initial fall recruiting period: many organizations, especially in research, education, and smaller nonprofit sectors, recruit closer to mid-spring.
Putting It in Perspective
Across all summer experiences reported in the SES, 94% of students completed a summer experience, most commonly internships (45%) and Duke-sponsored programs like DukeEngage and Bass Connections (23%). Students gained experience in a variety of industries, with top fields including Internet & Software, Investment Management & Banking, and Nonprofit & Government Sectors.
These findings underscore the breadth of opportunities available to Duke students and highlight the importance of persistence and timing in the search process.
Key Takeaway for Students
If you’re planning your search for next summer, don’t be discouraged if you don’t have an offer by winter. Keep applying and exploring- the spring months are when offers really take off!
Next Steps: Resources + Appointment
Visit the resources below to learn more:
- Job Search Tracker
- Internship & Job Search Guide
- Resume Guide
- Cover Letter Guide
- Resource List
- Summer Experience Survey Report
- Class of 2024 Outcomes
Questions? Meet with an advisor! You can view and schedule appointments through Handshake.
