Benefits of interning- particularly when pursuing alternative careers.
Posted by: Career Staff / Category: Career Resource Center, Job Openings-
Are you looking at alternative career opportunities, but aren’t sure how to get into the field? Getting an internship not only boosts your resume and skill level, but also may in fact help you land your first job, even in the current economic environment.
The recession has had a major negative impact on the ability of graduates to get hired. A recent survey by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) has shown that U.S. employers expect to hire 7% less graduates from the Class of 2010 than they hired from the Class of 2009. To add to the dismal facts, the Class of 2009 saw more than a 21% decrease in employer hiring plans. Among 219 employers surveyed, 40% anticipate cutbacks, 17% anticipate increased hiring, and 43% plan to maintain their college hiring at 2009 levels.
Despite all the negativism going around, NACE executive director Marily Mackes commented that they are seeing some movement in spring 2010 recruiting as employers anticipate the economic recovery will be underway. Additionally, a survey conducted by NACE earlier this year showed that students taking part in internships and career services are being hired by companies at a higher rate than those not involved. The study showed that 26% of students utilizing internship programs were hired after completing school, while only 19% of those who were not interns were brought in full-time by companies.
Interning is one of your best bets to finding an alternative career outside of academia. Speak with your PI and career services to see if an internship would work for you. Then start networking in the field that you are interested in.
Start interning! It’s well worth the time.
