In today’s ever-changing and highly-competitive job market, experience is becoming more and more important. How many people, with a hot-off-the-press degree, complain about the hardships of finding a job without experience? What if I told you there is a way you can get that experience, while still in school, so you can graduate with a hot-off-the-press degree and a pocketful of valuable experience?
Last semester I was stuck between a rock and a hard place. Finishing up my junior year, I stood uneasy in the looming shade of my uncertain future. In one year I would graduate college and be expected to enter the workforce. When people asked me my major, I was hesitant to say, “English . . . Creative Writing,” because I knew the follow up question would be, “what can you do with that?”
Many students have been in my position. They don’t know what they want to do with their degree and yet, are expected to have experience to get a job. How can you get experience if no one will hire you without experience? The answer is easy . . . internships!
With an internship, you will gain valuable experience in your field, challenge yourself, acquire real world training and have the chance to figure out what line of work suits you. The top question people ask about internships is, “are they paid?” While all internships have value, it doesn’t always come in the form of money. You can gain college credit while acquiring new skills in a job directly related to your major. You can figure out what aspects of the experience you like and dislike, so you know the best type of employment to pursue after college. You can obtain key networking skills and acquaint yourself with professional contacts that will help you get your foot in the door.
According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers, “over 80% of new college graduates hired each year have completed an internship, giving them a decided advantage in the job market.” Internships are a great segue between theories taught in the classroom and real-world application. Internships will make you highly competitive and sought-after by companies seeking qualified employees. To stride ahead of the competition and feel prepared for graduation, an internship is the best way to go.
Tackling an internship on your own can be intimidating. I know I felt overwhelmed when I tried to do it on my own. I had no idea where to start looking, where to apply, or even how to make my resume. I must have passed the Experiential Learning Center (ELC) a thousand times without paying any attention. One day, curiosity pushed me to check out the ELC, nestled quietly behind the door of suite 260. When I walked in, I was astounded by the wealth of resources the ELC offers. It was like Dr. Parnassus had come to the Tivoli and I had stepped into his Imaginarium.
The ELC has dedicated and caring advisors who are there to help you get an internship. Set up an appointment with one of them. No matter what stage you are in the process, I guarantee your advisor can help you navigate the complex career world. I walked in as an overwhelmed junior. I’m still here, but as a well-rounded writer with experience at my back and confidence on my shoulders. I’m polishing my professional skills by bringing this article and my future career to life. Now, when people ask that dreaded question, “what can you do with that?” I look at them with a smile and say, “I’m already doing it!”
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