Internships

Today marks the 20th Blog entry since starting in January! We've come a long way and have discussed a number of majors and careers thus far. Instead of spotlighting another major this week, we are dedicating this entry to: INTERNSHIPS!


What is an internship?
 An internship is a supervised, para-professional position  that allows individuals learning experiences and skills for future professional work. Most students will start an internship around their Junior/Senior year, but will start looking for internships around the end of their Sophomore year. For some majors, it is required to have an internship completed prior to graduation. Presently, employers are looking for students who have had at least one internship, but 2-3 internships can be advantageous. Internships may last between 1-2 semesters and may be part-time or full time.

Why be an intern?
Ask any employer- internships are the gateway to not only work experience, but to networking and possibly a future career opportunity. Employers are looking to see real, dedicated, on-the-job experience for entry level employees. For 2011-2012 recruiting trends, 71% of respondents stated that their organization will be seeking out interns during the academic year.This means-- it is quite important to get an internship prior to graduation in order to maximize your potential work opportunities. Also, the skills that you learn on the job are vast. An internship allows you to try some of your career interests out and leaves room for mistakes, learning, and development without as many high expectations as a professional employee may have.

Paid vs. Unpaid internships:
While its great when we can get paid for the work that we do, not all internships are paid. Paid interns earn between $10-15. For the many that are unpaid, something far greater is to be expected: real, transferable skills will be developed as well as gift of expanding your dedication to the work that you do!From my experience of working 3 internships in my life: paid or unpaid internships are invaluable! You never know what may come from an internship, like a full-time position. Last year, 39% of internships were converted to full-time positions. Also, if an internship is a part of your major's requirements, you probably will receive credit for the work that you've done.

Other options:
Volunteer experience- supplies great experience as well.
leadership in professional or non-professional organization- if you have time outside of class, join a student organization or executive board to broaden leadership skills. Leadership opportunities definitely stretch your ability and knowledge about your personality.


Having a degree is important, no doubt, however, to stand out amongst other students who have just received a piece of paper just like you, think about your future in interning.
For more information please see the links below:

http://internships.about.com/od/internshipsuccess/u/success.htm
http://www.wetfeet.com/advice-tools/internships/unpaid-internships-no-pay-no-gain
http://www.imdiversity.com/villages/careers/entry_level/wsj_internships_0308.asp