Internships

Almost half of college students who participate in an internship receive a job offer upon graduation, AND they receive higher salaries! According to a survey by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), employers offered positions to two-thirds of their interns and 31 percent of all new college hires come from internship programs. Therefore, internships are a valuable asset to have when job searching.

Internships are arrangements, either during a semester or over the summer, in which college students lend their talents to companies in return for an opportunity to develop “real world” business skills, learn about a new industry, and gain exposure to the work environment. An internship experience provides students with the opportunity to integrate knowledge and theory learned in the classroom with practical application and make connections in professional fields they are considering for career paths. It is not just a one-time experience; it can be a series of progressive workplace learning experiences. Such meaningful work experiences will not only enhance your resume, but will increase your marketability when looking for employment.

Participation in internships will allow students the opportunity to:

• Evaluate different types of occupations in various work environments that will enhance self-awareness
• Expand knowledge of career options
• Identify strengths and areas of growth (as measured by employer evaluations)
• Network with established business leaders in their field

Internship positions are not guaranteed and depend on various factors such as: availability of internship positions within an organization, an acceptable GPA and an interview and internship offer by an employer.   Internship positions may be paid or non-paid, depending on the skill needed and your qualifications.