What are the Benefits of an Internship?

FAU'S English Internship Program for College Credit

If you are a current student, you may be wondering what to expect from an internship, or how you can mutually benefit from interning for academic credit. A question that often comes to mind is, "what are the advantages of an internship?" The answer is simple: Internships are crucial for your future career.

There are several benefits of completing an internship during college. An internship is a great way to introduce yourself to your future field.

You may have learned about your field in college classes, but an internship will give you experience you won't find in your average lesson plan. Throughout the course of the English Internship Program, you'll gain relevant knowledge, skills, and important real world experience while establishing important connections in the field.

Along with technical aspects, you'll also learn the culture and etiquette associated with an industry, including professional dress code and how to interact with clients in the workplace. You'll gain an insight into how the occupation works in the real world.

You'll have a chance to test drive your future career path. Through your internship, you may find that planned career field isn't what you thought it would be. In some cases, you may find that you are better suited for another aspect of the field.

Prospective employers are looking for applicants that have completed internships throughout their college career. While your degree demonstrates your academic proficiency, an internship shows employers your work ethic. Internships provide practical examples of what a job requires.

Internships count as three elective credits toward your English major, and you can complete up to three internships for credit.

Employers are less willing to hire someone straight out of college with no experience. Thus, the college internship program has become essential in today's employment marketplace.

What Are the Advantages of an Internship?

The purpose of an internship is to give the student a "head start" in his or her prospective field. These internships allow the student to establish relationships with industry professionals. You'll have opportunities to build networking relationships that are a huge benefit when searching for a job. The networking you do throughout your internship can help you find references for future employment.

Internship experience helps your resume by adding to your professional experience. Employers favor prospective employees who have done not just one, but multiple internships.

Many internships offer opportunities to transition into full-time positions. While not a guarantee, most employers are seeking to add value to their company. An internship allows the student to showcase talents, commitment, and value to a prospective employer. Employers are more inclined to hire you once they have invested time and money to train you.

Application

For more information or to apply for this internship position, please contact Dr. Wendy Hinshaw, Director of the Department of English Internship Program (whinshaw@fau.edu).