Value of Degree-related Experience

An internship is an opportunity to pursue academic and career interests that provides practical experience to students looking to gain the relevant knowledge and skills required to enter a particular profession. Internships are often the beginning of a student’s career path.

Western University offers internship and co-op opportunities in several academic programs. The most recent addition is the Social Science Summer Internship Program which allows second and third year students to participate in work opportunities from 10-16 weeks, during the summer months. Other academic programs offer students the chance to work for up to 16 months in a degree-related role. To find out more about these programs and their eligibility criteria, please contact the specific faculty or The Student Success Centre.

Recruiters definitely see the benefits of hiring and training interns to take on major projects and responsibilities in their organizations. Both students and employers may find that there is a good match of interests leading to a full-time job offer after graduation.

Not only do internships teach important skills, they also provide students the opportunity to build a professional network and obtain important employer references. Internships help students understand concepts and theories taught in the classroom and translate them into the work world.

If your academic program does not have or co-op or internship option, consider gaining your degree-related experience through summer jobs, international work, or volunteer activities in your local community.

Internships and co-ops can be one of the most important components of your education. To a potential new-graduate employer, courses and grades are often insufficient to warrant extending an interview to an applicant. Your resume will stand out if you have participated in an internship. Experience is the key.