Internships are a valuable
experience for students as it provides them with hands-on learning
opportunities and exposure to real-world scenarios. It is an excellent way for
Filipino students to gain the knowledge, skills, and experience necessary
for their future careers. In this article, we will discuss the benefits of
internships for Filipino students and provide tips on finding and securing opportunities.
Benefits of Internships
Gain Practical Experience
Internships allow students to work in a real-world environment, giving them hands-on
experience in their chosen field. They can apply the knowledge and skills they
have learned in school and gain practical experience by working with
professionals in the industry. This practical experience is valuable and helps
them prepare for their future careers.
Build Professional Network
Internships provide students with an
opportunity to meet and work with professionals in the industry. This
interaction can help them build their professional network, which can be
valuable in finding job opportunities after graduation. The contacts they make
during their internship can also serve as mentors and provide guidance as they
navigate their careers.
Enhance Employability
Internships can enhance a student's
employability by providing them with the necessary skills and experience employers seek. It also shows employers that they are proactive and
willing to gain experience outside the classroom. This can set them
apart from other job applicants and increase their chances.
Discover Career Path
Internships provide students with an
opportunity to explore different career paths and industries. They can try out
different roles and tasks and better understand what they want to
do after graduation. This experience can help them make informed decisions
about their future careers and avoid costly mistakes.
Develop Soft Skills
Internships allow students to develop soft skills, such as communication, teamwork, time
management, and problem-solving. These skills are essential in any career and
can help students become more effective employees.
How to Find and Secure Internship
Opportunities
Research
Students can research companies and
organizations in their desired field and check if they offer internships. They
can also talk to their professors and career counselors, who may have
connections with companies that offer internships.
Networking
Networking can be an effective way
to find internship opportunities. Students can attend career fairs and industry
events and connect with professionals in their desired fields. They can
also join professional organizations related to their area, providing them access to job boards and internship opportunities.
Apply Early
Students should apply for
internships as early as possible, as some companies have limited slots for
interns. Using early also shows their interest and commitment to the
training.
Prepare a Resume and Cover Letter
Students should prepare a well-written
resume and cover letter highlighting their skills, experience, and
achievements. They should tailor their resume and cover letter to the company and position they are applying for.
Ace the Interview
Students should prepare for their
interview by researching the company and practicing common interview questions.
They should dress professionally and arrive on time for the interview. They should showcase their skills and enthusiasm for the internship during the interview.
Conclusion
Internships are an excellent
opportunity for Filipino students to gain practical experience, build their
professional network, enhance employability, discover their career paths, and
develop soft skills. To find and secure internship opportunities, students can
research, network, apply early, prepare a resume and cover letter, and ace the
interview. With these tips, Filipino students can make the most of their internship experience and prepare for a successful career.
References
Chen, M.-H., & Lien, B.-Y. (2019). A literature review of internship
effects. International Journal of Business and Society, 20(S1), 150-161. https://doi.org/10.33736/ijbs.632.2019
Gault, J., Redington, J., & Schlager, T. (2000). Internships: An
underutilized resource. Journal of Business and Psychology, 15(3), 419-429. https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1007857412725
Green, K. L., Zelenski, J. M., & Murphy, S. A. (2013). The effects of
university internships on student career development: An empirical study using
the social cognitive career theory. Journal of Education and Work, 26(4),
426-446. https://doi.org/10.1080/13639080.2012.717190
National Association of Colleges and Employers. (2022). Internship &
co-op survey. https://www.naceweb.org/job-market/internships/co-op-internship-survey/
Topping, K. J., & Holmes, J. D. (2013). An analysis of internship
programs: Implications for practice and future research. Journal of Education
and Work, 26(4), 401-415. https://doi.org/10.1080/13639080.2012.727834