Around the world, hundreds of thousands participate in student internships. Although internships are often categorized as jobs, they are more like apprenticeships. Internships are temporary and may or may not be paid. The emphasis during the job is training, which is why most interns are college students who are studying in majors relating to their internship position. The length of the internship depends on the employer in charge. Usually, an internship lasts the duration of a semester at colleges. However, 6-12 week summertime sessions or shorter 4-6 week winter break sessions might also be available. You don't apply for an internship in the same way you would a regular job. Although you should treat your application process professionally, your experience is less important than your willingness to learn, relation of the internship to your major, and recommendations. What kinds of internships are available - and which are required
- Why you should consider internships in the first place
- Internship lengths
- Living arrangements and pay rates
- Getting college credit for your internship
- Planning effective internship
- Interviewing
- How to get an internship when you're studying
- What to expect when you get an internship
- How to survive and make the most of your internship
- Ways to transition your internship to a regular full-time job after college
Studies show that those with job-related experience are more likely to get a job. A study by the Bureau of Labor and Statistics shows that one in three graduates are underemployed, meaning that they are, through their education, qualified for a better, higher-level job than the job they have. Unpaid or paid internships can help you get the better job that you deserve with your degree.
Types of Internships :
Not all internships are created equal. There are actually three types of internships:Typical internships are entry-level, educational jobs that can be paid or unpaid and usually give you college credit for your work (but not always).
Usually, these internships last for one semester, although sometimes you can find internships that last for two semesters.
Externships are usually only a few weeks long at most, are mainly based on job shadowing and are typically unpaid and do not give you college credit. Sometimes, an externship is based on giving you experience in one specific skill, acting like a very focused internship.
Cooperative education experiences are internship programs that are usually required and are available only to students in certain majors. Usually, they are full-time, and you're much more likely to be offered a full-time job. If your college requires an internship, they usually have a cooperative education program. These positions are easier to get then typical internships and externships.
There are internships available for almost every single college major. In some cases, you don't even have to be in college to apply for an internship. However, some majors are more likely to offer internships than others.
Internships can be further divided and categorized in a number of ways - by length, paid vs. unpaid, and for college credit or not. When searching for an internship, keep all of these aspects of the opportunity in mind. Usually, the best internships are three months long, paid, and for college credit. However, that isn't the best option for everyone, and these prize programs aren't highly available.
Tips for Surviving an Internship :
Being an intern can be stressful. You're asked to do the worst jobs, even though you aren't making much money (if you're making any at all).Surving an internship can be a daunting task, but remember what you're trying to accomplish. Because you'll likely be gone in a few months, others working in the environment might not make an effort to get to know you, and sometimes, your bosses forget that you aren't a full-time employee and they forget to let you in on what's going on, expecting you to automatically understand everything.
You can survive. Internships might be stressful, but they are also great for your resume and can open doors for you after college. Here are some great tips on how to survive an internship:
Be extremely clear about your schedule.
It is easy for an employer to forget that you have educational responsibilities as well, so they might call you to come to work at inopportune times. Try to be flexible, but at the start of the internship, write down your schedule and give it to your boss to keep handy.
Ask if you can take part in things.
Sometimes, employers don't think about your interests. All you have to do is ask! Speak up, letting your boss know that you're interested in sitting in on a meeting or helping to do a certain task. They'll likely be happy to let you do a little learning.
Talk to your College's internship advisor if the job is lacking.
As an intern, you might be responsible for lowly jobs like going for coffee, but at the same time, that's not all your job should be. You should get to perform tasks or at least watch others, helping you understand your field of study. If you aren't, voice your concerns to your boss and to your college.
Treat your internship like you would any job - be punctual, organized, creative, friendly, and helpful.
Internship Benefits :
Whether you're required to complete an internship or not, these training jobs can really help you in a number of ways.Here are some of the main benefits why students decide to take internships:
Job Preparation
As an intern, you'll have all of the experiences that a regular employee would have, but without as much responsibility. You won't be expected to make major decisions, but you will more than likely get to watch how others make these decisions. This will help you be prepared for an upcoming job where mistakes are not easily forgiven.Ease of Finding a Post-College Job
As an intern, you'll get tons of experience in the field you're studying. While you may not have full responsibilities like a typical employee, you will have exposure to your field of study. Employers love to see this on a resume. Sometimes, it is otherwise impossible to get experience in your field, as non-degreed jobs are not available. An internship will give you an edge over applicants who only have work experience in jobs like restaurants and retail.Money
Presumably, your major is a field of study you enjoy. While there are tons of campus jobs available for students, as well as other minimum wage opportunities off campus, don't you want to do something you love?With an internship, you don't always get paid, but in some cases, you can find salaried positions.
Making the Most of your Internship :
An internship is a valuable thing to waste. If you're lucky enough to be invited to participate in an internship, try to make the most of the opportunity. You'll thank yourself after college. Use the following tips to really get all you can out of your internship:Ask questions.
Don't be afraid of looking stupid! You're participating in the internship to learn about the job in a hands-on way. The more questions you ask, the better.
Network, network, network.
During your time as an intern, try to meet as many people as possible, especially people who are in careers that you aspire to be in some day. Take business cards, attend events, and, in general, do as much job networking as possible.
Give people a reason to remember you.
Remember, interns come and go every few months at most companies. In two or three years when you graduate, will you be remembered? It isn't about being remarkable; not every employee can change the face of the company. It's about doing your job well and making connections with your boss and the other people in the office. After your internship ends, stay in touch with the people you've met.
Take part in as many extra activities as possible.
If your boss gives you the day off because they're having in-office training, ask if you can come in anyway and take part. If everyone is going out to lunch to discuss a big client, ask if you can tag along. The more things you get to experience, the better.
Sit in on job interviews if possible.
For confidentiality reasons, this isn't always an option, but if you can, it is a great opportunity.
Transitioning From Intern to Full-Time :
Internships prepare you for the working world, but some find it jarring to transition from being a student intern to having a full-time job.They aren't the same. As an intern, you aren't an entry-level employee, no matter what kind of work you do. When you enter into a regular job, don't stick in the intern state of mind.
First, as an intern, you're meant to use your job as a learning tool. Your daily tasks will vary depending on your job, but in general, mistakes are expected and when in doubt, you can pass off your task to someone who works in the company. There will be no more handholding when you get a full-time job. During your first few weeks, your boss may allow a few mistakes, but you'll be held responsible for anything bad that happens. If you continuously make major mistakes, you'll be fired.
Don't let that scare you, though. If you're in a job where you make a lot of mistakes, either it isn't the right job for you or your boss isn't good at explaining to you how to complete your tasks. Either way, you'll be better off at another company or in another job.
There are definitely perks to getting out of the internship position. As an intern, you may not be paid, and you definitely won't receive benefits like health insurance. This changes when you get a full-time job. So, you'll have more responsibilities, but at the same time, you'll be compensated. Additionally, this job will be your only focus - no more classes to attend or papers to write. You can do your job, punch the clock, and enjoy your free time.
When you're ready to transition to a full-time job, the first place you should look, if you enjoyed your internship, is the same company. If they have openings, you'll be a top candidate since you already understand how things work around the office. Don't assume you'll be given the job, though. You still have to have a great resume, cover letter, and interview.
Transitioning to a full-time job can be difficult from a social perspective as well, especially if you partied a lot in college. You don't have to be a somebody, but remember when you're out with your colleagues that these aren't your drinking buddies from school. Work at making a good impression whether you are in the boardroom or having drinks together after work
Internships your discovery :
You can discover a lot about professional life in a short period of time.That’s why an internship is a great way to apply what you’ve learned in college, test the waters of the professional world, and build a strong foundation for achieving your career goals. You’ll see how corporate world offer you a world of opportunities to grow and achieve your potential no matter what your ultimate career choice. As an intern, you’ll be part of a global organizations, working alongside committed professionals as you develop the skills you’ll need to succeed. And your formal and informal learning begins right from day one. So if you want to experience working on real projects and are prepared to meet high expectations, take up the internships seriously. This is an opportunity to experience professional life and get a head start in your career before you’ve left university.
Preparation
You’ll need some foundational knowledge to be successful in your Internship, so your first week will be dedicated to orientation and training. Equip yourself with the essentials and help you rapidly develop your capabilities through a series of learning exercises – including on-the job training, coaching, and technology training. You’ll also receive functional and technical instruction. You’ll then be ready for business, handling tasks similar to those companies give to their first-year graduates.
Client work
In addition to your formal training, you’ll be learning important things like effective writing, presentation and teaming skills right on the job.
And our intern assignments are as varied as clinets business. You’ll also gain exposure to a variety of clients and industry sectors. This will give you an insight into the business and a good understanding of life at corporate.
Feedback
You want your Internship to be a valuable and challenging experience. So do companies, which is why companies appoint counselors advisors to provide regular feedback and guidance. He or she will be your main point of contact during your time with companies and will be responsible, along with your peer advisor or mentor, for helping you develop professionally and personally.
Relationships
You’ll make plenty of contacts and connections during your Internship. To help strengthen these relationships, we recommend you get involved in the many opportunities and events on offer. You might also choose to become an ambassador for corporate world upon your return to university.
You’ll make plenty of contacts and connections during your Internship. To help strengthen these relationships, we recommend you get involved in the many opportunities and events on offer. You might also choose to become an ambassador for corporate world upon your return to university.