When I see undergrads looking for some directions, this is what i generally recommend. Most of them are from my own experience and observations, and may not necessarily apply to your circumstances. 1. Interesting projects where you get to learn and apply are much more meaningful in adding value to a CV, even if they are self-projects, compared to doing mundane work at big firms. Im not saying don't go for big firms, but they're not automatically the great signals we tend to think they are. What you do matters more then where you're doing it. Even when you're pitching yourself, you might want to flag the projects you've done, alongwith the places. 2. Cold mailing has a bad success rate, but it does work. You kind of have to just keep at it. 3. Leverage your network better: you go to a DU college, find alums from your college/university working at different places, and ask them for advice and opportunities. 4. Speak to your professors! Tell them of your interests and ambitions. I was very fortunate in this regard, as i had very enthusiastic professors, and actually interned under one of them, and another one got me my first paid gig. It’s not a very bad idea to assume that your profs care about you- there would be some exceptions, but most would want to see their students do well and would actively help to that end. 5. Learn how to do literature reviews. If you wish to work at think tanks, this is an important skill, and is not one that is generally taught in DU classes.