For example, unpaid interns in California must receive college credit for their work in lieu of pay. The majority of internships in the U. This means that they are essentially on-the-job training in a field that the student or young worker is interested in. However, there are also research internships, which are more common in scientific fields. With a research internship, a student will examine a particular topic on behalf of a business before producing a written study or presentation. The first step in finding an internship is to determine what you need.
If you are a college freshman, for example, you may be interested in exploring a variety of different internships that can help you determine your major or ultimate career path. Seniors in college, on the other hand, usually have very specific goals for their internships.
These students want to gain valuable work experience and discover opportunities for employment after graduation. Like finding a job, the process for finding an internship can be challenging and time consuming. There are thousands of websites that students can use to find internships. However, not all sites are created equal or produce the best internship opportunities. Here are a few suggestions of places to look for internships:. All this information is great, but why should I bother with an internship?
The experts at Fremont College understand that there are a variety of benefits a student can gain from participating in an internship:. Unfortunately, you need to obtain a job before you can gain experience. Internships are a great way for college students, recent graduates or anyone considering a career change to obtain valuable work experience.
Gain valuable work experience The hands-on work experience interns receive is invaluable and cannot be obtained in a classroom setting, making this one of the most important benefits of internships. Interns have the opportunity to apply acquired knowledge to real work experiences, witnessing firsthand the day-to-day job duties they can expect to encounter in their chosen field.
In addition to learning the specialized skills of a particular field, transferable skills such as communication, teamwork, and computer proficiency are also obtained in an internship, fully preparing interns to enter the workforce upon graduation. Explore a career path Exploring is an important part of the college experience, and internships are a great way for students to acquaint themselves with the field they are interested in.
Some students begin college with a major or career path in mind, and end up changing their minds later on. Taking on an internship while in college allows students to work in their desired field, helping them decide if the field is right for them.
By graduation, students who interned are more likely to feel confident they chose the right degree. Experience of the workplace comes in many forms, ranging from open days with organisations and work shadowing through casual and part-time work to formal work placements. Which of these will best suit you will depend on your own career goals as well as your personal circumstances. Whatever you choose, consider how it will add to your personal and career development. The more time you spend with an organisation the more likely you are to gain responsibility.
Your part-time job is also an excellent opportunity to develop your interpersonal and organisational skills.
Workplace experience, whether paid or voluntary, is one of the most effective ways for current students and recent graduates to gain that competitive edge in the graduate employment market; it gives you the evidence that you have the skills and mindset the employer wants.
You should view all experience within the workplace as a valuable link to a potential graduate job and set time aside to consider the type of experience you wish to gain. Any experience will help develop skills required for the graduate marketplace. You will gain more from the experience if you are aware of your objectives before you start and if you reflect on what you have learned afterwards. An internship helps you develop an understanding of the world of work and an awareness of your own skills and abilities.
Getting a good degree is vital but being able to demonstrate to an employer that you have a wide variety of other skills will improve your employment prospects.
In the current economic climate, employers are looking for relevant experience which backs up your academic abilities and demonstrates your 'soft skills'. Competition for jobs means that you need a way to stand out.
As well as helping you learn essential skills, work experience can set you apart from other applicants when you start applying for jobs.
Everyone's experience is individual to them, so highlighting what is unique about your experience can help you stand out. As the nature of study at university changes, a work placement is often an integral part of third of fourth level education.
The relationships you build in your internships could pay dividends for years to come. One of the most important sections of your resume are your references. The working lifestyle is very different to that of a university student. Beyond all the reasons why an internship is important to career growth, simply getting your body and mind into the new rhythm is also an important factor. Now is your chance to diversify your experience with industry experts.
Your new colleagues and managers are the best people to learn from. People respect those that are assured in themselves and this is one way internships can help you get a job.
Your newfound confidence will shine through in an interview. If travelling is your thing, why not find out how to get an internship abroad? Not only will you be learning new skills and meeting new people, but discovering a whole new culture to boot. Another reason why an internship is necessary is it helps develop all-important soft skills.
Not to mention being held accountable for showing up every day and submitting quality work. Learn how to find summer internships with little to no experience. Start by checking out the internships on offer at GradConnection and sign up for your free account today!
Why an internship is important for career growth Posted by Gradconnection.
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