Students all have their educational experience in common. What stands out to employers is those students who ALSO have work experiences by the time they graduate. This automatically makes them more marketable; as they may require less training and are assumed to be able to handle more responsibilities. In addition to the specialized skills of your field, transferable skills are generally required at any job, e.g. communication/interpersonal skills, computer proficiency, and teamwork.

Most students enter college with an idea of a major or career path and end up changing their minds. Exploring is an essential part of the academic process, and gaining work experience is a great way for students to acquaint themselves with a field they are looking to learn about. By the time of graduation, the students have confidence that the degrees they are receiving are the right ones for them.

Many people learn best by being hands-on. But everyone can benefit from seeing what they have been learning in class put to action, whether it’s in a chemistry research lab, a marketing development meeting, or a substance abuse counseling session.

It’s all about whom you know. As a student intern, you are surrounded by industry professionals that you seek access to. It’s more than just about getting a grade, earning credit, or making money. This is an opportunity to learn from everyone around you, ask questions, and impress them with eagerness. These people can be your future colleagues or the connection to your first job

Learn your strengths and weaknesses by creating learning objectives and receiving feedback from your supervisor. It is a unique learning opportunity you may never have again as a working adult. Embrace the mistakes that you will make and the many things you don’t know. Ask questions, observe, and take risks.

Practice makes perfect. If you have learned about a specific technique in the classroom, you can test it out in the world of work. Then you’ll be much more equipped with the method