Why Internships Matter for Students

Internships bridge the gap between theory and practice, providing students with practical experience, networking opportunities, and a pathway to future career success. Through internships, UNC business students gain valuable skills, enhance their resumes, and position themselves competitively in the job market.

Internships are more than just a requirement to fulfill during your college years; they are a vital steppingstone towards a successful career.

?For students studying business at the University of Northern Colorado, internships offer invaluable opportunities to bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world experience. Being a student at the University of Northern Colorado, I can confidently say while Greeley is a small town, its alive and full of opportunities for students who put their best foot forward. In this blog post, we'll explore why internships matter at UNC and how they can shape the future of business majors.

In a recent finding by Andrew Fennel, with StandOut -CV, “66.4% of interns secure a full-time job after completing their internship. These individuals typically enjoy a $15,000 higher salary compared to those who did not intern.” To provide insight, obtaining an internship can increase compensation especially in a competitive business, and can increase the odds of obtaining a full-time job, upon graduation.

Here are 5 Reasons Why Internships Matter for Students

Try to keep an open mind, especially if you are not sure about obtaining an internship. Its more than just a job, its learning the company, practicing, networking, and even strengthening your resume.

"Providing internship opportunities changes the whole equation."

?1.??? Transforming learning into practice

At the heart of the matter lies the transformative power of experiential learning. While textbooks and lectures provide a solid foundation of theoretical knowledge, internships allow students to apply that knowledge in practical settings.

Whether it's analyzing market trends, developing marketing strategies, or managing financial portfolios, internships provide hands-on experience that is unmatched in the classroom. For business majors at UNC, this practical experience is essential for honing their skills and preparing them for the challenges of the business world.

2.??? Discovering and Networks

Furthermore, internships offer students the opportunity to explore different career paths within the field of business. Many students enter college with a general idea of what they want to pursue, but it's through internships that they can truly discover their passions and interests.

Whether it's working for a startup, a Fortune 500 company, or a nonprofit organization, internships allow students to test the waters and gain insight into various industries and roles. Passion and interest can change a lot over the course of a college students' career. Take more word for it, when I first started college, my focus was becoming a fire fighter, but it wasn’t until I explored a hands-on experience (Like an internship) that allowed me to come to the realization that isn’t what I wanted.

This exploration not only helps students make more informed career decisions but also expands their professional network, opening doors to future opportunities.

3.??? Elevating UNC Business Students' Resumes

Internships also play a crucial role in building a student's resume and making them more competitive in the job market. In today's competitive business landscape, employers are looking for candidates who not only have the necessary skills but also practical experience. A well-rounded resume that includes internships demonstrates to employers that a student is proactive, motivated, and ready to hit the ground running.

Even putting yourself out there for job interviews with internships, the employer reviews your resume and even in my experience, told me what they liked about it and what I could do differently.

For business majors at UNC, internships are a way to differentiate themselves from their peers and stand out in a crowded job market.

4.??? Opportunities After Completion

Moreover, internships often lead to job offers or even full-time employment opportunities upon graduation. Many companies use internships as a way to identify potential candidates for future hiring needs. By impressing employers during their internship, students can secure a job offer before they even graduate, giving them a head start in their careers.

In my experience, when I was offered an internship with a sales and marketing company, I was told if I performed above and beyond, I would have a job waiting for me once I completed my bachelor’s degree. This shows if you work hard in an internship, it can create more opportunity for students to have a job waiting for them.

For business majors at UNC, internships can be a direct pathway to their dream job, allowing them to transition seamlessly from college to career.

5.??? Mentorship Availability

Moreover, internships foster mentorship opportunities that can significantly impact students' personal and professional growth. Working closely with experienced professionals allows students to gain insights, advice, and mentorship from industry experts.

These mentor-mentee relationships provide guidance, support, and invaluable knowledge that can shape students' career trajectories and inspire them to strive for excellence in their chosen field.

Overall Takeaway

In conclusion, internships are a cornerstone of the University of Northern Colorado's business program, offering students unparalleled opportunities for growth and success. From gaining practical experience to exploring career options, building a resume, and securing job offers, internships play a crucial role in shaping the future of business majors at UNC.

As students embark on their internship journey, they are not only preparing for their future careers but also unlocking their full potential for success.

Would you add anything else to my list? Has an internship at your university changed your entire career path? Let me know your thoughts below.

Image credit: Jeffrey Bateman

?Check out my other posts for my clarification:

Path to success, maximizing your internship experience

Leveraging University support, a guide to internship success

The article can be found here: Unlocking Potential internships for students – From Classroom to Career ( wordpress.com )