Internships are an excellent way to learn about an industry of interest while also acquiring some of the necessary skills and tools for success in that industry. Internships can also satisfy certain college program requirements and possibly allow the student to earn college credit, enriching the college experience and preparing for entrance into the workforce. Students can use internship opportunities as a great way of building a relationship with an employer in an industry of interest. This relationship can open doors to future positions and networking opportunities that can strengthen one’s career. Students participating in an internship are typically more engaged in their learning and develop a better work ethic and more skills and abilities. These interns later become more dedicated employees and involved community members. By providing experiential learning while still in school, internships can give students real-life experience in their potential future choice of career.
Though employment isn’t guaranteed at the end of an internship, many employers use internships as a way to train and evaluate future employees. In fact, a 2009 NACE survey of U.S. employers with interns found that 67% of those interns were given job offers after their terms were complete.