Benefits Of An Internship
Whether an internship is paid, for credit, unpaid or not-for-credit doesn’t change its value. Internships are investments in your future.
Often, students are reluctant to pursue internships because they worry they’ll be stuck doing menial tasks like getting coffee or making copies and let’s face it- no one wants to work for free.
The truth is, although not all internships pay in cash they do pay in other ways.
Participation in an experiential learning activity like an internship can benefit you academically, personally, and professionally.
Here you can find benefits of an internship:
Personal Development
You will further develop a personal work ethic and can investigate your career interests and prospective career goals.
Additionally, an internship enables you to develop specific skills and knowledge related to your potential career.
Practical experience
Many people learn best by doing, and everyone can benefit by seeing the theories and methods learned in class put to work.
Whether it’s testing water samples to check for pollution, working on a marketing campaign, or facilitating an art program for children, hands-on experiences bring classroom theory to life and give you practice in your field of interest.
Joining a company as an intern gives you the opportunity to work hands on in a professional environment.
As an intern, you’re not just there to get coffee or run errands but you’re there to gain actual work experience. Internships help by teaching you more about the career path you are pursuing.
Think of it like this – internships are a way to test drive possible jobs and explore different career options.
Achieve a greater sense of clarity about your career goals
Interning allows you to test drive a job, company, or career path before committing to full-time employment.
An internship can also help you determine which aspects you do or don’t like about a position or work environment, and can help shape your future path.
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Increase your self-confidence
Working in a professional environment through an internship can help you feel more comfortable, confident, and at-ease in the workplace.
Plus, an internship can provide you with technical and soft skills that can be applied in the future, allowing you to feel more confident in your abilities.
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Expand your professional network
You will meet professionals working in your industry of interest. Ask questions, conduct informational interviews, and connect with new people.
The people you meet through an internship can be a great resource as you learn and practice the skills of your field, and as you search for additional internships or employment.
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Earn money or other compensation
Not all employers are required to pay interns, but many choose to do so when possible. Interns may be paid a wage or stipend or compensated in another way, such as reimbursement for meals or travel costs.
Internships provide you with the building blocks you need for your future. Many internship opportunities help set the foundation for your career.
It is important that you choose you internships based on your interests and career prospects. As an intern, you can get your foot in the door with a company.
Keep in mind, employers often use internships as a recruitment tool to test out future employees and in many cases, companies hire interns after graduation.
Internships are great tools to improve your chances as a job applicant and help make you a better potential employee. So, make the investment in your career and consider becoming an intern.
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