Work While You Learn: Internship Experience- A Key To Getting Great Jobs

By Susan Martin, Commerce Program and Internship Coordinator & Nancy Burford, Environmental Studies Internship Coordinator

When a degree program includes an internship, students graduate with the added benefit of real-world work-experience in their chosen field of study. At The King’s University College, completed internships contribute towards your academic credit and are required for degree completion in Commerce, Computing Science, Environmental Studies and PHE (Political Science, History and Economics) programs.

The workplace becomes an extension of the classroom during an internship which allows students to apply their academic knowledge to the industry position. The quality of the internship is enhanced by the partnership established between the student, the academic institution and the employer.

Being in a paid position for four months while earning academic credit, building a great professional network and gaining outstanding references are all some of the tangible benefits of the internship experience. Students have reported improved communication skills, team work skills, presentation skills and organizational skills that they have gained through their internship experiences.

While finding the right internship takes some leg work, with the support of an internship coordinator, this too is a valuable learning experience. This aspect of the internship preparation allows students to acquire and practice their skills in conducting effective job searches; preparing killer resumes and knowing how to ace an interview.

While not all programs offer internships, students can create their own learning opportunities by volunteering in the community during the school year, or carefully choosing a summer job which complements their course work.

Getting a degree is a tremendous accomplishment in itself. Pairing a university education with relevant, real-world work experience will increase a students’ marketability in the workforce and pave the way to meaningful work.

For more information about The King’s University College, visit kingsu.ca