With the fast paced, continually shifting job market landscape we all live in, recent college graduates and even older alumni need to have as many options in their tool box as possible. One of the tools that makes good sense for many of these individuals involves completing a post graduation internship. Yes, in many instances these may be unpaid undertakings but the long-term benefits can be significant. This can be equally true for those looking to break into an entirely new field or trying to get a foot in the door with that dream company.
Leaving college minus gainful employment, being in the midst of a frustrating job search, or not at least having a well thought-out career plan can be very scary, even debilitating for some people. Here at Elon University, we’ve found over the past 4 years that anywhere from 1 to 4% of recent graduates go on to an internship experience.
As recent Oregon State University marketing graduate Erica Roberts (author of The SavvyIntern blog) puts it…
“I graduated recently, and I have been in one of those discouraged states – I was frustrated beyond the point of reason. I felt like a failure. I was embarrassed at the state of my career. I was disappointed because in one of my current roles I have the title of “intern.” And being an intern after graduation is embarrassing, right?”
She was certain that everyone else had it all figured out. How many times have I and other career service professionals heard that one!!
Erica is of course absolutely correct in here assessment when she says “That is ridiculous.”
At some point, nearly all college students find themselves searching for the “right” answer when it comes their career path. For those few who don’t, they may only be postponing the inevitable. The value of a post graduation internship can have remarkable benefits on truly figuring out what is you are meant to do, or in some cases what career path should be avoided. While probably not something you envisioned following graduation, such an experience might just be your best ticket for:
- Making key industry networking connections
- Showcasing your enthusiasm and willingness to learn (particularly if you don’t possess the necessary skills set right off the bat)
- Finding a good mentor or two
- “Test-driving” that career path you didn’t get around to doing while in school
- And if your lucky, proving yourself and landing a full-time job doing something that you are really interested in!
While obviously not for everyone, today’s college seniors and recent graduates shouldn’t overlook the value of doing an internship after receiving their degree if that presents the best option for them to work in the field of their choice. Remember, the more tools in your toolbox – the better off you’ll be down the road regardless!
Good luck!!
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