Participating in a college internship can be a great way to earn real-world professional experience to not only boost your resume, but help you land a job after graduation. Most employers look for candidates with relevant experience, so having it under your belt can up your chances of getting a job in the field of your choice. 
Competitive careers, like those in marketing and sales or design, often expect internships on their prospective new hires' resumes. An internship can help you get experience iin your prospective professional area, even if the position isn't exactly what you had in mind or directly related to what you want to do. As long as you have work experience in a professional environment that teaches you some of the skills necessary for your job, you should be able to advance later on in your career.
An internship can provide valuable contacts in the industry you enter. For example, if you're in a graphic design degree program, an internship with a design firm can position you to connect with in-field practicioners, thus creating great future employment opportunities. Managers and coworkers who you have worked with during your internship can offer you advice and show you what it's really like to work in a given industry.
Additionally, many companies offer future careers for their interns. They could set you up with a position right after you graduate, so you won't have to waste time looking for a job elsewhere.
An internship can teach you practical skills beyond what you could learn in the classroom. Even though professors aim to keep you up-to-date on what's happening in the field, you may find that the only way to get hands-on experience and understanding is by becoming part of the industry. If you're unsure of exactly what you want to do, you could try out a couple of different internships and see if the job is what you're looking for.
Whether your internship is paid or unpaid depends on the company you intern for. An unpaid internship is worth it, as you will still gain valuable experience. Have questions? Ask a career placement services advisor to help you find something that fits your career goals.
About the Author: This article was transcribed by the Rasmussen College Blog team. Are you ready to take the plunge into a new, successful future? If so, learn more about our degree programs today.
Comments (2)
Hospital Unit Clerk - Sandy Tyree
I would like to get a job as a hospital unit clerk, while I am earning my AS Degree in Medical Adm.
Can anyone tell me how to get an internship in the mean time?
Before & After School Coordinator Needed - Gina Faya
10/7/2011 - Rasmussen College Education students are encouraged to submit their resume for consideration. Athenian Academy of Pasco County, in New Port Richey is looking for dedicated college students to support our Before & After School Program. Qualified candidates must enjoy working with children, assisting them with homework, coordinating age-appropriate activities and ensuring their safety at all times during Before & After Care. All employees are required to clear Pasco County Public Schools' background check. Send resume to Gina Faya, Staff Recruiter, at RecruitWiz@inbox.com
