Summer internships explained
Applying for summer internships can be a valuable learning opportunity, yet they've become hugely competitive. Research shows undergraduate students may submit as many as 50 applications and still receive no replies, as more and more students realise the huge advantages these internships give them. With that in mind, we look at how to secure yourself a place.
Summer internships provide students with the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in their field of study or industry of interest. Unlike university, these placements allow students to apply their theoretical knowledge gained in the classroom to real-world scenarios and projects. Learning how to work with others and gain valuable skills for their CV.
The pros of an internship
One of the huge benefits of internships is that they offer students the chance to develop and enhance essential interpersonal skills such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and critical thinking.
Relevant work experience through internships can significantly enhance a student's employability upon graduation in a competitive job market. Employers often look for candidates with practical experience and academic qualifications, and internships can help students stand out.
Internships also allow students to explore different career paths and industries, helping them gain insight into their interests, strengths, and preferences. It provides a low-risk opportunity for students to test various roles and environments before committing to a full-time job.
Some internships also offer paid positions, allowing students to earn an income while gaining valuable work experience. This can help offset the costs of tuition, living expenses, or student loans.
Applying can be a worthwhile investment in future career success and personal development. Internships provide students with real-world experience, offer valuable networking opportunities, and allow students to connect with professionals in their chosen field and potentially secure future job opportunities.
The cons of an internship
The pressure to get an internship is intense. According to Forbes, nearly half (49%) of Gen Z job and internship seekers submit more than 50 applications during their search. Companies are also reporting more competition: ServiceNow says it saw a 50% increase in internship applications this year, while Citadel says applications were up 65% from last year and that it accepted less than 1%, or about 300 of the 69,000 applications it received, to this summer's program.
In addition, depending on the internship you are after, many are located in major cities, meaning if they are unpaid, you are immediately at a disadvantage if you don't live nearby.
Students also talk of the immense pressure of trying to find an internship while studying. The process of applying is similar to that of applying for jobs, with numerous tests and interviews. It can be very time-consuming and pressurised especially at a time when exams are looming.
If you feel overwhelmed by the whole process, remember that there is no perfect road map to guaranteeing a job as soon as you finish university. Listen to your own needs, and be sure to do what is right for you, not what others are doing.
How to find a summer internship
It helps to go to a company you are interested in. Often, they will have a Careers hub where you can input your information and sign up for alerts about future opportunities. This also adds you to the company's recruitment mailing list. For example, KPMG has a section for undergraduate opportunities with various programmes. Sign up, and you can get job alerts, news, and opportunities from the organisation.
Deloitte also has a student academy that helps you get close to the world of business, discover what excites and inspires you, and gain vital work experience to help you determine whether we're the firm for you.
Finally, Bright Network also offers a four-day virtual internship programme (which takes place every summer with a new programme each year. Designed to have the most value for university students, IEUK is an immersive programme that is good for anyone, whether unsure of what sector to pursue, curious about specific industries, or seeking practical skills to stand out to employers.
How to get help with internships
First Tutors Business has a range of business training tutors in your area to help you fulfil training and development needs and advance your skills. Trainers can help with various subjects such as sales, management, CV, interviewing and business writing.