The Importance of Internships and their Value in Early Career Development

The job market has become increasingly more competitive, with employers searching for candidates who stand out from the crowd and will bring the most value into the workplace. With industry experience and knowledge highly desirable in the eyes of employers, an internship could become key to differentiating yourself from the rest.

With grades often being the focus of university studies, it is easy for students to get to the end of their degree without any industry experience to support their learning. While academic performance is important, the long-term value of internships should not be neglected. The opportunities offered through internships are extensive, but here are some of the most significant benefits for students wanting kickstart their career development early.

1. Exposure to Real Workplaces

While it is easy to sit inside a lecture theatre and copy down notes, this is vastly different from what is expected of you when you enter the workplace. University is a good foundation to learn the basics, but you will start making strides in your career when you begin to put your learning into practice. An internship gives you this exposure early in your career and sets you up for long-term success.  Being immersed in an actual workplace whilst completing your studies will enhance your learning experience and help cement your knowledge through practice.

2. Refine Knowledge and Skills

Internships provide you with a unique opportunity to learn professional skills and industry knowledge before entering the workforce. Although university is valuable in teaching you the necessary knowledge about your desired field, an internship enables you turn this classroom knowledge into solutions for real-world projects. Strengthening these skills and knowledge alongside industry professionals will increase your employability and support your transition into the workforce.

3. Explore Different Career Paths in Your Field

It can be hard to work out what career path you want to embark on without any experience working in the field.  An internship gives you the flexibility to work across different tasks and projects so you can identify where your strengths and weakness are. An internship is a valuable experience in your early career as you get the opportunity to explore different career paths without the commitment of full-time employment. Whether you know exactly where you want to take your degree, or you are still trying to decide, an internship is the best opportunity to identify where your interests are.

4. Build and Develop Your Resume

Your resume is often the first time an employer is introduced to you, which is why it needs to stand out.  Your university degree is not going to set you apart from the hundreds of other applicants, but an internship will. An internship shows employers that you are willing to learn and have taken the initiative to develop your skills through professional experience. An internship will provide you with experience working on real projects, helping you attain real achievements that can be included on your resume.

5. Networking Opportunities

Getting your foot in the door is no easy feat, especially in a job market that is as competitive as ever. Industry connections are often a helpful way to help get you in touch with the people you need to be speaking to- after all, it’s not what you know, but who you know! An internship gives you the opportunity to meet and network with professionals in your field. Developing professional relationships early can help you get your name out there and make a good impression in the industry. These relationships will give you a competitive edge in the job-market and might be the key to finding your new job!