The Importance of Internships in Career Building
What is an Internship?
An internship is an occupation which offers on-the-job training, skill building, and invaluable experience that can help launch college students and recent graduates into a successful career. Internships are usually short-term job placements which involve working with a company, organization, or government agency in a professional capacity. Internships provide an opportunity for individuals to develop and hone the skills expected of them by potential employers.
Benefits of an Internship
Internships are a valuable resource for marketers, engineers, software developers, finance, business analysts, healthcare professionals, and budding entrepreneurs. An internship can provide an opportunity to expand upon existing knowledge, explore a different industry, or gain exposure to the corporate world while applying for full-time jobs. By participating in an internship, individuals learn about the real-world complexities of an industry, gain practical experience, and build professional networks which can be helpful in the job search.
Skills Gained During an Internship
Participating in an internship gives individuals the chance to hone skills related to the particular industry and develop abilities such as communication, problem-solving, organization, and teamwork. Working in different roles and collaborating with others allows individuals to build upon the skills they already possess and expand their knowledge base. Additionally, interns gain a practical understanding of the industry, gain confidence, and learn effective techniques for navigating the job application process.
Finding an Internship
Finding an internship can be a challenge. Job postings for unpaid internships are often only accessible to already established networks or individuals with a certain level of expertise. Campus career centers, alumni, and professional organizations are great resources to utilize when searching for an internship. Additionally, websites such as Indeed, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn can be utilized in the search for internships.
Applying for an Internship
Once you have identified an opportunity, prepare your resume and cover letter accordingly. Include coursework and any relevant experience that could set you apart from other candidates. Take time to research the company and the role and be sure to highlight any skills you have that could benefit the organization. Show genuine interest in the opportunity by asking relevant questions at the interview.
The Value of an Internship
Overall, internships are an invaluable tool for career building. An internship gives individuals the opportunity to learn about a particular industry or organization, gain real-world experience, hone relevant skills, and build professional networks. Additionally, internships give individuals a chance to gain concrete evidence for their career portfolios and resumes to set them apart from other job seekers.