Joining an internship is a great way of mentoring and teaching
students or workers new ways of performing within a specific company.
The rate of students joining internships has increased in recent years.
This is due to companies offering more opportunities within their
programs, along with universities acting as the gateway to opportunity.
It's important to know the relevance of internships today, and how you
as parents can help your student make an internship possible.
What exactly is an internship?
There
are many different types of Summer Internship but not all jobs qualify as
such. They give great learning experiences for students within their
specific field. Some of the work performed during an internship is
viewed as minor, but it is important for understanding all aspects of
the job. Some internships are available during the school year or during
the summer. Some people even take part in programs after graduation.
The
role of an intern is a mix of employee and student. Internships can
either be paid, unpaid, may receive academic credit or none at all. The
overall experience is meant to help the student bridge the gap between
school and work force. The student and employer work together to help
create goals that shape the internship experience. It will help to get
both the intern and employer on the same page so to speak.
How can students find internships?
The
best way for students to find out about potential internship
opportunities is through their college Career Office. The Career Office
helps students format cover letters, resumes, interviewing skills, and
expectations within the workplace. Other sources of internship inquiries
can be found on internship databases on line and personal contacts such
as family or friends. You can even check out Career Fairs, which are
often provided on campus from time to time.
Why are internships so important?
An
internship is important because it takes what's leaned in the classroom
and puts it to practical use. On the other hand, there are many other
reasons why your student may want to take part in an internship program
during their college experience.
• According to the National
Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), around 50% of employers
would like to see an internship on a student's resume.
• An
internship can work as a gateway to a job within the company. Again,
according to a NACE survey, almost 36% of employers hired employees from
their own internship program. According to Matthew Zinman of the
Internship Institute, IBM may convert as much as 50% of their interns
into full time employees.
• An internship allows a student to "audition" for a job before taking a full on position within the company.
•
Students who complete internships may find gaps in their practical
knowledge, which may affect which courses they take in the future. They
will be able to fill in gaps before they graduate.
• The
experience of obtaining the internship may be an experience in its self.
The student will have to write a cover letter and resume, complete an
application, and interview for the position.
• Your student will gain experience about a particular job or field within the workforce that applies to them.
• An internship looks good on a resume, and employers expect to see one provided on the resume.
• Students may create contacts and have an opportunity to network themselves, which is important to find a stable job.
•
Employers prefer to hire students who have completed internships
because it increases job retention. They know that interns have a better
understanding of their profession and know what lies ahead within the
company.
• Your student can earn academic credit.
• Even if
your student finds that they do not enjoy the work within the
internship, they will gain valuable experience. They will be able to
find a work environment best suited to their work ethic.
• Students who complete internships are more likely to receive higher salaries when they are hired.
• An internship may lead to a job offer.
• Many internships are fun and can be great self-confidence boosters.
