The internships that students seem to enjoy most are those that extend their academic interests. Not surprisingly, students who enjoy their work will also perform well. Yes, though seldomly. If a student has a specific set of skills to offer such as television production experience, or Web site design, they may be more valuable to the organization. Through portfolio and resume workshops students prepare themselves to stand out among the competition for new jobs.
Most students have positive, rewarding experiences.
For others, internships can have cathartic benefits. I know of many students who were convinced that they wanted a career in television. After one semester working with a local affiliate, they had had enough. As I tell my students, the program should be as much, if not more, about learning which career paths are the ones they choose not to follow. Many students have expectations for their professional experiences that they cannot achieve.