Paid internships help offset costs, offer experience
November 2, 2011
There's no denying the fact that individuals pursuing a particular degree usually hope to work in that field upon graduation. However, finding a job without experience can prove to be difficult.
Recruiters say that internships can often help students gain necessary experience in their chosen profession. Some internships are done simply to gain experience and college credit, while others are paid positions.
A recent study conducted by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) reveals that individuals who work as paid interns while completing their degrees are more likely to get a job offer, have a job in hand by the time they graduate, and receive a higher starting salary offer than their peers who undertook an unpaid internship or no internship at all.
"Paid interns reported spending more time on 'professional' duties and therefore appeared to gain more of the 'real' experience that appeals to employers than unpaid interns, who spent more time on clerical activities," said Marilyn Mackes, NACE executive director.
In addition to helping individuals gain invaluable experience, paid internships can also help pay the bills and offset other costs while students are still in school. In addition to reducing the costs of higher education through employment, moms who are heading back to school are eligible for scholarships for mothers.
