What Are the Benefits of Internships for Students?

Internships are among the most popular type of programs that SAF offers. 

They allow students to gain real-world job experience, and they're a simple path for entering an industry—especially competitive ones.

There are many questions about internships and what their benefits are so let's explore some of the main ones. 

What Do Interns Do?

Most often, internships are temporary entry-level positions that support other roles. An intern typically assists other employees, but they can become responsible for their own projects.

The actual day-to-day tasks of an intern will depend on the company and industry. They're jobs like any other, only they are focused on early professional development.

As such, the main thing interns do is learn about a job and how to do it.

Benefits of Internships 

Gaining practical involvement in a specific area helps you learn everything there is to know about that industry. Additionally, it makes you a more attractive candidate in an already highly competitive employment market. 

Work History & Academic Credentials

Qualifications like degrees and years of experience are often included in job postings. But after finishing college or a trade school, most people do not yet have the necessary job experience to join the workforce. 

One great solution to this problem is to get an internship. Participating in meetings and doing duties in a real-world environment may provide invaluable insight into how a corporation operates in your sector. 

You can better articulate your goal for a permanent career and include your internship responsibilities and projects in great detail in your resume's experience section. 

Read about why you should sign up for an internship program with SAF. Not only do you gain valuable work experience, you can also earn academic credits at one of our partnered uniersities like UC Berkeley! 

Mentorship

An internship is a great way to to meet someone who can guide you along your professional path.

You meet face-to-face and connect with professionals, and these relationships allow you to be yourself while showing respect and reverence when asking for advice. 

Even if you go on to have a full-time job elsewhere, networking during an internship can be valuable throughout your career.

Gaining Confidence

Going from studying to working full-time can bring many emotions like anticipation, worry, optimism, ambition, etc.  While this is an exciting time, it's no secret that looking for a job can be difficult between applying and interviewing.

While searching for the first big step in your career, an internship can be an easier way to gain hands-on experience in your field of choice. 

Demonstrating competence in a professional setting and finishing assignments gives you confidence and helps prepare you for what's to come in a full-time permanent role.  

Confirms Career Path

To find what you're passionate about, you might explore several different fields while you're in school. 

Some people find that getting a bachelor's degree clarifies their job goals. For some, going to school opens up a world of possibilities in terms of both majors and jobs. 

When you work an internship, you don't have to commit fully to a career path to get valuable experience. This can help you figure out if particular jobs are a good fit for you.

Meet & Network with Professionals

Meeting other professionals in your industry—especially ones that can refer you for available positions—is often the key to a successful job hunt. 

Practically, internships enable you to expand your career network. Showing interest, excitement, and willingness may help professional connections see your potential, leading to more work opportunities.

Are Internships Worth It?

Internships provide learning experiences for students and recent graduates as they explore industries and professions.

When planning for your future career, you should certainly consider applying to an internship program for some hands-on experience outside of the classroom.

Schedule a meeting with an SAF counselor when you are prepared to learn about potential internship opportunities overseas. This experience is enriching and the perfect way to make yourself stand out among other applicants to jobs and graduate degree programs.