Internship Guide for
Students and Graduates

Finding a job as a student or recent graduate can be challenging—especially when every employer wants experience. But to get experience, you first need to find a job! Internships are a fantastic way to bridge this gap.

What is an Internship?

An internship is a short-term work experience, lasting anywhere from a week to a year, that gives you hands-on experience in a specific field. Internships can be paid or unpaid, depending on the industry, and span the full range of professions—from Engineering to Accounting, Marketing to IT. They provide valuable work experience to university students, recent graduates, and people considering a career change.

What are the benefits?

Employers are often willing to hire interns with little to no experience, especially if they’re open to limited compensation. But the benefits of an internship go far beyond just a paycheck. Here’s why we think internships are worth it:

✔ Gain Valuable Work Experience
An internship provides hands-on work experience that you can’t get in the classroom. First-time job seekers and career changers are rarely considered ideal candidates, but companies often welcome them as interns to help build the skills needed for full-time positions.

✔ Have an Edge in the Job Market
Employers often value work experience over academic qualifications, and internships are frequently the only way to get that crucial experience. Many employers prefer (or even require) applicants who have done internships or relevant work. In competitive job markets, having internship experience can set you apart from other candidates.

✔ Transition into a Job
Internships are one of the most effective ways for employers to recruit new staff. Many interns transition into full-time roles after their internships end. Think of it as a really long interview where you get to show that you’re a capable, hardworking employee. Just as you’re giving the company a trial, they’re doing the same for you.

✔ Decide if this is the Right Career for You
If you’re unsure about a particular career path, an internship lets you try it out risk-free. Most internships are short-term, so you can gain insight into a career field without making a long-term commitment. This experience helps you decide if a specific role or industry truly suits you.

✔ Networking Opportunities
Internships are a great way to meet people in your field. Even with experience, knowing the right people can make a huge difference. An internship introduces you to professionals who might help you land a job later on and gives you industry contacts. Plus, having references from industry professionals strengthens your job applications.

✔ Gain Confidence
Gaining real-world experience is a powerful way to build confidence. An impressive resume that includes internship experience will help you feel more assured in interviews. You’ll also have practical examples to share, showing prospective employers what you learned and how you contributed.

Read Calin’s internship experience below that led to exciting career opportunities!