An internship or externship is a paid position at a company where you get some experience before heading off to college. This arrangement usually lasts between three months to a year.
Internships are often seen as stepping stones into the workplace, providing valuable real-world experience to students who want to break into the workforce. They also offer companies access to new talent, especially from underrepresented groups in the job market.
Externships are similar to internships, except they last longer (usually around six months), and the student gets paid. Both types of programs provide employers with a chance to evaluate potential hires.
Internships and externships are different from unpaid volunteer positions, like those offered by non-profits or community organizations. These programs don’t pay, and they’re generally not intended to lead to jobs after graduation.
What is an Externship?
An externship is a paid internship or job experience offered by a company to students who are enrolled in college courses. These internships can be extremely beneficial to both the student and the employer.
Students gain real-world work experience, while employers get to see how well their potential employees perform under pressure.
Students may receive benefits such as tuition reimbursement, health insurance, and even free housing. Many schools have formal agreements with local businesses for this type of program.
What Are the Benefits of an Externship?
During an externship, students follow a current employee around and help them with their work. In return, students receive hands-on experience in their field of study and can build up a professional network as well.
However, many companies won’t hire externs without prior work experience, so it can be difficult to find one if you’re just starting out.
If you get in touch with someone at your college career center or an organization like SCOPE (the Society for Collegiate Executives), they might be able to help you find an externship that matches your interests and goals.
If you know what you’re getting yourself into, then you’ll be prepared when you apply for an internship or externship.
Good luck!
Why Do Companies Offer Externships?
Companies offer externships for two main reasons:
1) To attract top talent,
2) To create a pipeline of future employees.
The first reason is obvious – the more people they hire, the better. But there’s another benefit to offering these programs: It gives students a leg up on their competition.
The best candidates will always be the ones who have had real-life experiences working alongside other professionals. That means that when hiring managers go through resumes, they’ll know right away whether someone has been exposed to the corporate world.
How Does an Externship Work?
Most colleges have relationships with local businesses that allow students to complete internships during school hours. Students sign up for these programs, which typically last about 6 months.
During the course of the semester, students work 40 hours per week, meeting with supervisors and participating in projects. Some schools require students to take classes related to the industry they’re working in.
After completing the internship, students submit a portfolio of their work and interviews with the supervisor. Employers use this information to determine whether or not the candidate is qualified for a full-time position.
When Should I Consider Doing an Externship?
If you’re looking for a career change, an externship could be just what you need. If you’ve already decided on your major, then an externship might help you decide between two very competitive fields.
It’s important to note that most companies won’t consider applicants unless they’ve completed at least one year of college. So if you haven’t started yet, you should think about doing an externship before applying to graduate school.
How Can I Find Out More About Externships?
There are many ways to find out more about externships.
The following are some useful resources to visit.:
1. Career Services Offices
These offices provide advice on finding internships and externships. Contact your campus career office for details.
2. Local Businesses
Many local businesses offer externships to high school and college students. Check your local newspaper for listings.
3. Online Resources
Check out sites like LinkedIn or Monster for opportunities.
4. Your School
Your school’s career services department can help you find out more about available positions.
5. Social Media Sites
Social media sites like Facebook and Twitter can give you access to job postings from all over the country.
6. Colleges
Some colleges offer scholarships based on the number of internships students complete.
7. Job Boards
Job boards like Indeed and Simply Hired can connect you with employers seeking interns.
8. Companies
You may also be able to get an internship by contacting a company directly.
9. Recruitment Agencies
Recruitment agencies like Robert Half International and Manpower can put you in touch with potential employers.
10. Trade Associations
Trade associations like the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) and the American Society for Training & Development (ASTD) can connect you with training providers.
11. Professional Organizations
Professional organizations like the American Marketing Association (AMA), the American Advertising Federation (AAF), and the Institute of Public Relations (IPR) can connect you with professional organizations.
12. Government Jobs
Government jobs are often unpaid internships. However, there are many federal government jobs that pay well.
13. Freelance Markets
Freelance markets like Elance and oDesk can connect you with freelance writing, editing, graphic design, and other types of freelance projects.
14. Volunteering
Volunteering can lead to paid internships. Many nonprofit organizations will accept volunteers who have experience.
15. Careers Fair
Career fairs are held throughout the year where employers come together to recruit new employees. These events are a good way to meet people working in your desired field.
16. Work Experience Programs
Work experience programs allow students to work during their summer breaks. Some schools require a certain amount of hours worked as part of the application process. Others don’t care how much time you spend working.
17. College Clubs
College clubs often hold events where employers attend to talk to students about their careers.
18. Campus Visits
Campus visits are one-on-one meetings between employers and students. Students must schedule these appointments themselves.
19. Interviewing
Interviewing is another way to get hired. It’s best to practice interviewing skills before you start looking for an internship.
20. Networking Events
Networking events are informal gatherings where professionals meet up to discuss current issues.
How Long Should You Be Paid For an Externship?
An externship is usually a short-term project, lasting anywhere from two weeks to six months. Most companies only hire interns for a few months at a time because they know that most internships end after graduation. This means that you should expect to be paid less than a full-time employee.
If you’re not offered a job when you graduate, it might mean that you weren’t the right fit for the position or that your resume was lacking important experience.
Why Should I Choose an Externship Instead of an Internship?
Choosing an externship instead of an internship has several advantages:
1. A company may offer you a longer period of employment.
2. You’ll gain valuable real-world experience.
3. You’ll learn more about the industry.
4. Your GPA won’t suffer.
5. You’ll make connections within the industry.
6. You’ll save money on living expenses.
7. You’ll have access to better resources.
8. You’ll be able to network more easily.
9. You’ll have more opportunities to apply for jobs.
10. You’ll be able to build a stronger portfolio.
11. You’ll get a head start on finding a job upon graduating.
What Are My Options If I Want To Get An Internship After Graduating From High School?
You can choose between an internship and an externship. Both options are beneficial.
Here are some things to consider:
1. An internship gives you hands-on experience.
2. An externship allows you to explore different career paths.
3. An internship requires a lot of effort.
4. An externship doesn’t require as much commitment.
5. An internship takes place over a long period of time.
6. An externship lasts a shorter period of time.
7. An internship provides you with a reference letter.
8. An externship does not provide you with a reference letter unless you ask for one.
9. An internship shows potential future employers that you’re willing to put in the extra effort.
10. An externship shows potential future employers your willingness to take on additional responsibilities.
11. An internship shows potential employers that you’re eager to work hard.
12. An externship lets you show potential employers that you’re ready to work hard.
13. An internship provides you with a chance to develop leadership skills.
14. An externship helps you develop leadership skills.
15. An internship will help you prepare for future careers.
16. An externship will help you prepare for different types of careers.
17. An internship will give you a competitive advantage.
Conclusion
Internships and externships may seem like just another form of volunteering, but they’re actually very helpful to both students and employers.
