Experience is a great teacher. On the job training is a bonus and not a rule in many places of employment and that is the main reason that I highly recommend that all high school and college students complete an internship. Many students who are seeking employment aren’t hired because they lack experience. They are unable to gain experience because no one will hire them. An internship has many short and long-term benefits. I have listed some of them below.
Intern – any official or formal program to provide practical experience for beginners in an occupation or profession
Career Exploration
- Apply classroom knowledge to the field
- Try different career paths/comparison shop careers
- Decide if the industry is the right field for you
Skill Building
- Gain relevant work experience
- Develop marketable skills
- Enhance existing professional skills
- Gain confidence in your skills
- Build your resume
Employment
- Entry into a company you want to work in
- Have a competitive edge in the job market
- Transition from intern to employee
Connections
- Networking opportunities/meet people in your field
- Work with professionals and industry leaders
- Secure good professional references
- Find a mentor
Nicki Sanders, MSW, Chief Visionary Officer
The Teen Toolbox provides youth portfolio development and civic engagement and academic enrichment opportunities to help teens set goals for life after high school and create a road map to reach those goals through its PACKAGED FOR SUCCESS™ Programs.