An internship is a practical work experience that can occur between and during any year of college. It gives you a chance to apply some of the knowledge you gained during school and helps you get more comfortable in a work setting. Some internships are paid, but others are unpaid. Your degree program may require an internship, and your college may award academic credit for your experience.
1. An internship gives you a chance to find out what you like and don't like about a particular job. You might learn, for instance, that you don't like working in a cubicle in an office. This information helps you in your career path. If you do like certain tasks or areas within your degree area, you have a better sense of what direction to go.
2. An internship allows you to put the technical knowledge and professional acumen you gain during college to work. Performing tasks where you use your skills helps you develop them more fully, while also learning new ones on the job. Plus, the experience you get through the internship looks good on your resume when you apply for full-time jobs
3. A common goal for interns is landing a job with the employer. The potential to turn an affordable intern into a permanent employee is one reason that companies offer internships. For you, moving from intern to full-time employee makes your real world transition simple.
4. An internship helps you build a network of contacts in your field. Through networking, you may hear about suitable job openings and develop mutually beneficial relationships. If you get into business-to-business sales, your contacts could present sales opportunities. Knowing a lot of people within your industry is good for you and your company.