Why Choose an Internship

Students have participated in internships for years. Apprenticeships or on-the-job training are tried and true methods of mentoring and teaching students or workers a new trade or profession. In recent years, however, the number of students participating in internship opportunities continues to grow as more and more schools offer structured programs and more and more employers expect graduates to have real world experience.

Participating in an internship is an important experience to complement the learning that you is do in the classroom. It can provide some valuable practical experience.

• According to a survey conducted by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), nearly 50% of employers would like to see an internship on a student’s resume.
• An internship can serve as a screening device for employers. Again, according to a NACE survey, nearly 36% of employers hired employees from their own internship program. According to Matthew Zinman of the Internship Institute, IBM may convert as much as 50% of their interns into full time employees.
• An internship gives a student an opportunity to “audition” a job or a field before taking a permanent position.
• You will gain valuable practical experience about a particular job and/or the work world in general.
• An internship looks good on a resume – and employers are increasingly expecting to see an internship on a student’s resume.
• You may make important contacts and have an opportunity to do some networking which will benefit you when looking for a permanent job.
• Very simply, an internship may lead directly to a job offer.
• Finally, many internships are fun – and great self-confidence builders.

What is an Internship?

An internship is an opportunity given to potential employees (usually students or graduates), to work at a business within their chosen industry for a fixed or limited period of time.

For example, you may be studying Accounting and wish to get into a career as a Forensic Accountant. You would ideally be placed at a firm that specialises in Forensic Accounting so you can get some ‘real world’ experience and build your network within that profession.

It can be a difficult and daunting task for new graduates to find employment after completing their studies. Competition from other applicants, as well as a lack of industry experience can make it seem almost impossible to find employment.

This is where Intern Gateway steps in… to manage the process and ensure that students are matched to a company that will give them real benefit

How our students can benefit your business

Our Interns:

Our interns are seeking an opportunity to utilise the skills they have obtained through their studies. They are fresh and willing to jump into any tasks given to them. They can help business as they have fresh eyes and may see things your office hasn’t come across yet.

The benefit of having an IG intern is not only the quality of the students but the services we as an organisation give. There is a lot of work done behind the scenes to ensure a smooth transition.

• Our students are excited to be given the opportunity to utilise their studies in a practical environment.
• Our international students speak multiple languages
• Frees up professional staff to pursue more creative projects.
• Offers a year-round source of highly motivated professional students
• Brings new and innovative ideas.
• Allows the employer the opportunity to have an impact on molding the lives of students.

Header helpful tips

Internships are not just part of the curriculum. They have become a way to stand out of the crowd. Check out these helpful tips when considering an internship.

• Look for a program that will give you the opportunity to do some real work.
• Be a professional. Treat everyone you meet with respect and leave your personal life at home.
• Don’t be shy about asking questions, and don’t pretend to know something you don’t. Companies expect questions from interns, after all this is a learning opportunity.
• Use your initiative. Raise your hand. Don’t overextend yourself, but do take on as much as you can handle.
• Network, network, network! You have the opportunity to meet and showcase yourself to potential employers and valuable job contacts.Take advantage of what is a wonderful opportunity to meet senior leaders.
• Try to set goals and work with your mentor to achieve these.
• Stay in touch and send casual emails every couple of months to maintain your contacts.