As a college student, you’re probably excited about all the possibilities ahead of you: new friends, new classes, new opportunities, and new experiences. But you’re also probably trying to balance all your school commitments with work, family, and other responsibilities. An internship can be such a great addition to your college experience.
An internship can provide you with knowledge in a professional setting while still allowing you to focus on your academics. Studies have shown that students who intern during their college careers are more likely than their non-interning peers to graduate on time, and they are also more likely to be employed upon graduation.
What Is An Internship?
Internships, or work placements, give you the chance to gain work experience and gain insight into your chosen field. They can be paid or unpaid, for short or long periods, and are suitable for students or recent graduates looking for employment, as well as those already in the workforce. Most internships last around three months and take place during the summer term, although there are plenty of opportunities throughout the year.
Reasons Why We Need an internship
Internships have been around for a long time, and they offer a great opportunity for students of any age or background to get a glimpse into a potential career. Whether with a local business, a non-profit, or a museum, an internship can be a great way to increase your professional network and better understand your career industry. Here are a few reasons to opt for an internship while you are still in college:
Application of education and career exploration
Internships have become an essential part of higher education. Interning allows students to experience what a career would be like and gain valuable workplace experience first-hand. Internships will enable the student to explore possible career choices, and for many, that exploration leads to a major career change.
Gain experience and increase marketability
Going into the business world or higher education can be a scary thing. Without experience, you stand the risk of not having a job or being accepted into school or college. An internship is the best way to gain experience and build your resume. Moreover, you can have better chances of having an offer letter in your hand when you graduate.
Networking
Many companies have an internship program to help recent graduates gain experience and network. Internships are an excellent way to get a head start on your career. There are many advantages of internship programs, but the most important one is that an employer gets to see you work hard. An internship also looks good on your resume. Show them that you’re committed to your field and that you want to be involved by getting an internship. In addition, you can network and make friends from the corporate sector who can help you grow in your career.
Professionalism
Internships are one of the best professional opportunities a student can have. They allow students to work in a professional environment at a very young age, network with professionals, and learn valuable skills and lessons. If students are not offered an internship, they often fear how they will be able to get the relevant experience required for other entry-level positions. But internships are more than just experience—they help prepare students with the soft skills employers look for in new hires.
Learn how a professional workplace operates
Internships are a necessary part of higher education. But all too often, they are seen as a rite of passage rather than an opportunity to gain valuable experience. Employers value internships and consider them a solid indicator of candidates’ abilities. Not only that, but interns can also learn how office functions and skills they may have to develop or improve for a better career opportunity.
Build your resume
Internships are vital to your college experience. For most students, internships provide their first real taste of the workforce before they graduate. They also help you build a resume and gain experience. Internships can help in showing work experience in your field of employment once you are out of college and building your career.
Gain professional feedback
An internship can be a wonderful experience, and if you are a motivated and hardworking student, it can even lead to a full-time job offer. Moreover, you can get professional insight on your work skills and development options from your employer so that you can hone your skills for future employment.
Learn from others
Prospective employers want to see that you are serious about your work and committed to learning new skills. Internships can also provide you with valuable industry experience, which can be a significant asset in your career. You can learn new things from professionals who have gained years of experience working in various corporate companies or running a business.
Internships are an important part of building a career, so it’s important to know how to land one. But it can be hard to find an internship opportunity that fits you, especially if you’re still in school. Luckily, there are lots of online job boards, like Monster, where you can apply for internships that will help you learn what it’s like to work in your chosen career field. And if you’re a student, reach out to your professors and alumni groups for help finding an internship—it never hurts to ask.