The Value of an Internship

Yesenia Maldonado

What are your plans after college? This is a daunting question for many students as they consider what is next after years of studying,

“The transition from campus to career can be overwhelming,” Karen Piraino, the Executive Director of Career Development, said, “The more prepared you are for this transition, the more successful it will be.”

Internships play a critical role in shaping one’s career path. An internship allows you to work in a professional environment to apply and develop professional skills. Being able to work for an organization, whether for pay or college credit, provides you with a safe place to learn and grow alongside people who share your interests. Career Development works diligently to help students get the internships they need to succeed, learn so much about myself, as well as the healthcare system in another country.”

“That’s what our organization is all about. Supporting students in that transition in a meaningful way,” Piraino said.

Many Alvernia students can testify to this fact and have shared the value internships have held for them. But what exactly are those benefits?

Applying what you have learned is essential in furthering your education as you delve into a career, gain technical training, and interact with those in the community.

Internships are a wonderful way to build new relationships, increase your professional visibility, and show what you offer to a professional field. It can also be the foundation of a supportive network and impactful connections. And the interactions you have through an organization give you a chance to meet industry professionals,

1.

Getting a degree is a great accomplishment! However, gaining practical hands-on experience will help you apply what you have learned. No matter your major, getting hands-on experience benefits everyone,

“It is crucial to allow students to get involved in a different community and/or culture to learn more about their chosen discipline.” Kyra Connolly, an Occupational Therapy major and Psychology minor, said. Connolly chose to intern in Belize, where she was able to get hands-on experience working at various clinics. Through this internship, Connolly, along with fellow Occupational Therapy major, Jacqueline Gentile, became more confident in providing occupational therapy services,

“I went to LIFE, which was a home health organization that serves over 100 seniors across Belize City,” Gentile said, “Having this trip made me

Exposure to a real work environment allows you to explore what you may like and dislike about a specific job or career path. Internships will also enable you to reflect on your strengths and weaknesses, considering what you want to continue doing or thinking about what else you want to learn. You will receive more clarity about what you want to do,

“I wanted to intern at a place where I could still work with social media and engage with the community,” Daniela Silva, a Communication major, said. Silva is currently a social media intern at Berks Community Television, where she is responsible for creating Instagram posts and campaigns. She loves the exciting projects that community members bring forth and being part of a friendly staff,

“Internships are important because that’s when you have a taste of what your major can provide you,” Silva said, “You can decide whether you like it or not, and it will help you on the path you would like to pursue.”

3.

“I got to hear from very successful women in different industries, step outside of my comfort zone, and build connections,” Samantha August, a Communication major and Digital Media Marketing minor, said. As an intern at the O’ Pake Institute of Economic Development and Entrepreneurship, August attended an Alvernia Women’s Council networking event dedicated to fostering personal and professional relationships.

Networking is crucial to personal and professional development. As you build the connections necessary for your growth, you show others the skills you have to offer.

By applying what you learn to real situations, you are learning to grow in your discipline and improving on the skills that are invaluable in the workplace. You are learning to communicate with professionals, gain technical experience, manage your projects, and much more! It gives you a chance to obtain what will make you career ready, “I’ve been able to enhance my public speaking and critical thinking skills and strengthen my writing.” Micah Yarbray, a Criminal Justice and Psychology major, said. Yarbray is currently an intern for The Parden Project of Berks County, which seeks to assist individuals with criminal records. Yarbray is responsible for determining a potential candidate’s eligibility, accessing court documents, and identifying their convictions.

5. Standing Out!

As you prepare to enter the workforce, your internships will have already aided in your professional growth. Your work experience and applicable skills will increase your confidence in what you have to offer and your desirability to employers,

“Internships provide coveted work experience which will help to differentiate them for the employer during the candidate selection process,” Piraino said, “Internships mean you are serious, you are committed, and you are prepared. Employers want serious, committed, and readily prepared employees.”

If you want to start preparing for an internship, Career Development is here to help you! The office is open Monday through Friday from 8:30am to 4:30pm. You can pay them a visit in Room 103 in Bernardine Hall, call 610-790-2878, or email careerdevelopment@alvernia. edu.