What is an internship? We cover the most common internship types, the purpose of an internship, and how to get one
What is an internship, and what can you expect from it? Whether you’re a current Bachelor’s student or if you’ve already graduated, it’s important to understand the different types, durations, and purposes of internships in order to kickstart your professional journey.
It’s more than just a buzzword on job platforms; it’s an opportunity to grow and learn in the real world.
What is an internship?
An internship is essentially work experience offered by an organization for a limited period of time.
It’s an opportunity to dip your toes into the professional waters of your chosen field, gain valuable hands-on experience, network with professionals, and potentially secure a full-time job offer.
Types of internships
Internships come in various shapes and forms, tailored to the capacities and needs of both the intern and the organization.
Below are different types of internships you can apply for.
Paid vs unpaid
Paid internships offer monetary compensation for the work you perform, while unpaid internships focus on experience and mentorship as the key reward.
There are different factors that affect whether internships are pair or unpaid:
- Industry and your major (engineering and IT internships tend to be paid)
- Local laws (some countries allow unpaid internships, others don’t)
- General practices in your region
- Individual company policy
Full-time vs part-time
Internship opportunities can match your availability, with full-time internships requiring a commitment comparable to a regular job (30-40 hours per week), and part-time internships usually ranging from 15 to 20 hours per week.
Virtual (online) internships
The digital age has brought forth virtual internships, where your presence could be from anywhere with Internet connectivity.
Remote internships are getting more and more popular every year, so keep a look out for opportunities like this – they’re usually prominently displayed on the internship page.
How long does an internship last?
Internships can span from a few weeks to several months.
Generally, they align with university semester breaks, some lasting a full summer or winter term, but others may ask for a commitment that corresponds with a typical business quarter or even a full year.
The purpose of an internship
The purpose of an internship is multi-layered:
- Gaining practical, hands-on experience in the field.
- Exploring potential career paths to see what truly resonates with your passion.
- Building a professional network with connections that could lead to future job offers.
- Developing transferable skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving that enhance employability.
How to make the most of an internship
Here’s how to ensure you make the most of your internship experience:
Set clear goals and expectations
Before the internship starts, outline what you want to achieve. This could include:
- Specific skills you want to learn
- Professional contacts you hope to make
- Understanding more about a particular industry or role
Discuss your objectives with your supervisor at the beginning of your internship.
Demonstrate initiative and seek constructive feedback
- Volunteer for projects that might be outside your comfort zone but offer learning opportunities.
- Don’t wait for formal evaluations to understand how you’re doing. Ask for feedback after completing assignments or during regular check-ins with your supervisor.
Foster professional relationships that last beyond the internship
Make an effort to connect with colleagues across different departments. Attend company meetings, workshops, and social events to broaden your understanding of the company and its culture.
After your internship ends, keep in touch with your colleagues and supervisors. LinkedIn is a great tool for staying connected. These relationships can be valuable for future job opportunities, references, and mentorship.
Document your skills and accomplishments
- Keep a record of your work: Maintain a detailed list of the projects you work on, including your specific contributions and the skills you used or developed. This will be invaluable when updating your resume.
- Collect samples: If possible, keep copies of your work that can be included in your portfolio. Make sure to ask for permission if the work is confidential or proprietary.
- Reflect on your experience: Regularly jot down what you’re learning, challenges you’ve faced, and how you’ve overcome them. This reflection can provide insights into your growth and can be a useful resource for future interviews.
Conclusion
No matter what form they take, internships serve as a crucial stepping-stone into the professional realm, providing tangible experience, insights, and a network that propel your future career.
Understanding what an internship is, how long an internship lasts, and the purpose of an internship sets the foundation for harnessing its full potential.