An internship is a work experience which is directly related to your major field of study or your career interest. Internships provide a great opportunity to develop your skills and knowledge in the work environment under the supervision of a professional.
Internships are either paid or unpaid and usually range from 6-12 weeks during the long vacation or it can be on a part-time basis throughout the academic year.
Why you should consider an INTERNSHIP?
- An opportunity to gain valuable work experience to give you a competitive edge in your career pursuits
- It helps to boost your already existing skillset while developing new and relevant
- You get to experience the practical side of your coursework and apply the knowledge you have acquired
- It gives you a sound platform to explore your potential career options
- Provide good networking opportunities to establish contacts with professionals
- You get to experience the world of work and learn about the various work cultures that pertains
- Through an internship, you may actually end up working your dream job in your dream organization.
Tips to finding an internship
- Start early. Finding the right internship requires dedication and takes time. It is advisable to start the internship search months early in order to find the right one.
- Many internship programs have deadlines as early as fall for the following summer.
- Some internships may require specific coursework or experience to be eligible.
- Finding a good internship means competing with other equally good students, so build a competitive edge by participating in student organizations, community service and leadership activities to enrich your CV and increase your skillset.
- First year students are advised to use their first year to participate in lots of volunteer work and leadership activities before starting an internship.
