Looking for an internship can be a scary process for many students, especially for students who don’t feel they know about the steps to find and start an internship. As a first-generation college student, it was hard for me to think about starting an internship because I didn’t have someone tell me about the ins and outs of them. I heard so many different opinions I didn’t know what to believe. But then I took a chance and realized that internships had more benefits than I originally thought. Misconceptions about internships are hard to ignore because as students, we really want to devote our time to something we think is worthwhile. Here are a few common misconceptions about internships that I had (some which you might have too!) and the truths that I discovered.
Misconception # 1 – Internships Aren’t Worth It
This is a common misconception, and I honestly thought this my freshman year! However, this is far from the truth. Not only will internships provide you with a unique experience, but you can also develop professional skills, build a network, and get to work in a field you are interested in. An internship also allows you to have a diverse resume! When you tailor your resume, you want to stand out by having relevant experiences. When you can show a variety of relevant experiences (i.e., work or volunteer + internship experience), it allows an employer to see how you developed skills across different positions and environments.
Misconception # 2 – Internships Are Unpaid
There are a variety of internship opportunities available; internships can be paid, unpaid, or be a chance to get credit toward your degree. If you are struggling to decide if an unpaid internship is worth it, I recommend writing down the pros and cons of the internship. Is it relevant towards your degree and/or future field? Is it on or off campus? How many hours per week would you need to devote to it?
Misconception # 3 – Only Large Companies Offer Internships
While large companies do offer internships, don’t forget about smaller companies and even non-profits! Interning within smaller teams offers a unique opportunity because you get to experience what it’s like working with a local organization and it allows you to strengthen your personal relationship with other interns, your supervisor, and employees.
Misconception # 4 – Interns Only Do Unwanted Tasks
Read the internship job description and ask questions in the interview to understand the position. Communicate with your supervisor about what you would like to do and if it’s possible to work it into your responsibilities. From personal experience, I spoke with my internship supervisor about what I hoped to learn and gain during my internship, and we coordinated which tasks would be the most beneficial and relevant for my goals.
Misconception # 5 – Your Internship Should Match Your Major
While it may benefit some students to get an internship that matches their major, not all students have to do that. An internship can benefit your future career in many ways. Look for an internship you are truly interested in, or an opportunity that offers the most for you to learn. I am a Psychological Science major, and my summer internship was as a Marketing Intern for a Tucson non-profit called SARSEF that focuses on science and engineering education for young students. Does marketing relate directly to my major? Maybe not entirely. But does it relate to my future career? Yes! My career goal is to work with individuals in career and education exploration so working with SARSEF, I understood how marketing plays a large role in reaching a variety of audiences. Through my internship, I gained insight into the importance of engaging with schools, sponsors, parents, and students. At community events, I talked directly with students and now understand how education exploration is so beneficial for students, no matter their age! If you have ideas about what you want to do in your career, look at organizations and internship roles that you feel would benefit your career exploration the most.
Looking for the right internship can be hard, but don’t let misconceptions stop you! Internships are so beneficial and offer unique opportunities for students so embrace the experience and absorb all you can! You can start applying for internships today on Handshake or attend the Fall Career Days to find internship opportunities. Want help getting started with your search or want to learn more about internships? Meet with a Career Peer Coach – we specialize in internships and can help you find and apply to opportunities!
