What do you do if you want to choose between a paid and unpaid internship in Creative Strategy?

Consider the value of the experience and networking opportunities against your financial needs. If the unpaid internship offers significant career advancement potential, it might be worth considering, but prioritize financial stability if necessary by choosing the paid option.

If you are just starting out your goal shouldn't be the stipend, your goal should be the learning. Money comes when you are capable enough to do what you are meant to do. People are always willing to pay for the right skillset and the results they are getting for themselves. First focus to be that individual.

As a former unpaid intern, I know that early on in my undergraduate career it was especially difficult to attain a paid internship in marketing. Though financial compensation would have been ideal, I can certainly say my unpaid internship was the foundation of applying skill sets and concepts in the classroom into real-time scenarios and circumstances. For a creative strategist, I believe an unpaid internship can still yield value as it gives you an initial testing ground to see your communication and creative skills to create messaging that resonates with your target audience. Being able to get this practice in early can then be built out at scale and not only sharpen your abilities but also build lasting connections for years to come.

Cash or connections? ???? Consider the experience and networking opportunities each offers ????. If the unpaid gig opens doors to valuable connections and hands-on learning, it could be worth the investment! ???? But if you need that extra cash flow, go for the paid option and hustle hard! ???? Remember, it's all about maximizing your growth and potential! ????

In the beginning of your journey, there's no harm in working unpaid as it will lead you to upskill yourself. There will be multiple areas where you will get a chance to have hands-on experience, which is greater than any certification courses. Rest assured, afterwards, obviously money matters.

The good thing about unpaid internships is that they can be testers to see what roles and industries catch your interest. If you do not end up enjoying what your work consists of, it’s good to note that early on and consider ways you may want to pivot in the next internship cycle. No knowledge is lost.

There are trade offs to everything, and the same is true with a paid internship versus non-paid internship. If you are someone who is in school, entrepreneurial in nature, or have other commitments (family, friends, etc) then a non-paid internship can provide you with the flexibility to attend to other things in your life that require your attention. If you are someone who has time availability during the summer or for an extended period of time (four months and above) then a paid-internship or a co-op could be beneficial to help you fill the time and really hone in on the professional skill sets that will help you be successful in your industry.