Internships can be a great endeavor for many reasons: career confirmation, industry experience, professional connections, and statistically higher starting salaries of first jobs.
First, doing an internship within your desired future industry can really help you see what the day-to-day experience on the job might actually look like. This can help you decide whether you are in the right field or if maybe you need to choose another path. It’s better to discover this through an internship rather than once you have already graduated.
Next, you can gain industry experience that other college graduates may lack. This will make you stand out in a crowd because your employer can be reassured that you have more industry knowledge.
Another great reason to get an internship is that you will gain professional connections. Those professional connections will be great for references. Connections could also turn into mentorships so if you make a great professional connection be sure to stay in touch.
Lastly, evidence shows that students who have an internship are more likely to have a higher starting salary. It’s also worth mentioning that internships can lead right into a full time job. Employers love this because they get to “try before you buy” and make sure you are what they need before committing to hire you full time.
If you’re interested in learning more about how to find an internship the Office of Career and Professional Development will be having an Internship Workshop Thursday at 11:00 am on zoom. You can also stop by or meet with our staff to learn more.
If you find an unpaid or underpaid internship there is a scholarship WT students can apply for called the President’s Earn and Learn Scholarship: learn more here.
For information on upcoming Events and Webinars, click here. Head over to our YouTube channel to find previous workshops and employer information sessions.