What Is an Internship?
Most internships are temporary work experience programs connecting students and young people with practical experience in a professional setting, but specifics can vary.
Some are paid, others are unpaid or offer compensation in the form of school credit. Some are full time, while others are part time. Some internships are even fully remote, allowing you to gain work experience from the comfort of your home (or dorm room).
In any case, they’re a great way to build your resume, make informed career decisions and increase your chances of finding more permanent, fulfilling work.
Why Should You Intern?
If you’re not sure what you want to do after high school or college, exploring internships before or after graduating can be a useful first step. The right internship can offer you plenty of real-world experience in a given field — and help you find a foothold in the working world.
What To Look For in an Internship?
If you’re thinking about participating in an internship, start with some research. No two programs are alike, and you don’t want to end up with something that feels like a waste of time or effort relative to what you want to do. Try to focus on roles that align with your career interests, especially those that offer opportunities for training, mentorship and networking.
How to Leverage Internship Experience
Internships can often lead to full-time employment — but a lot of that comes down to what you do with the opportunity you’re given. During your program, it’s important to be proactive, seek feedback from others and track your achievements. That way, even if you don’t end up with a job at the company you’re interning at, you’ll have a network of connections, and a resume full of clear experience, to help you find work elsewhere.
