Whether you’ve finished your degree, or are looking to do an internship alongside it, there are some important things to consider before accepting an internship. Being offered an internship can be really exciting and confidence-boosting, but you should always weigh up the pros and cons before accepting the opportunity presented to you. Keep reading to find out what they are.
Things to Consider Before Accepting an Internship
Companies like Beyond Academy offer a range of internships, including International Internships Seoul. Companies like this collate lots of internship opportunities, so it’s worth double checking what else is out there before you make a decision.
Making a list of your career goals, and then listing ways each potential internship will help you work towards your dream career is a great place to start, when shortlisting potential internships, but keep reading for a list of things to consider before accepting an internship.
Paid or Unpaid Internship?
One of the biggest things to consider before accepting an internship is whether you can afford to take on an unpaid one. Student loans only go so far and bills still need to be paid, after all. If you accept an unpaid internship, but have to work a second job to make ends meet, will you really benefit from that unpaid internship?
Make sure you consider the expected working hours. Many internships involve working long hours, so finding time to have a second job may prove impossible. For most people, a paid internship is the best option. You’ll be able to make ends meet, and still have time to truly absorb the experience you gain as an intern.
It may be worth asking if there is accommodation available to interns. If the position is unpaid but you get accommodation and / or meals included, you may be able to accept the position without ending up with thousands of points of additional debt.
Internship Location
If the internship opportunity is in your home town and you can stay, rent free with your parents, it’s going to involve far less expenses than an international internship would. That said, if you’re looking to work for a non – UK company, getting some international experience at intern level will stand you in good stead, moving forward.
An international internship will also be a great way for you to test the water with international living too. For example, if you accept a 12 month internship in New York, but find your hate their Winter, at least you can cross New York off your relocation list.
Alternatively, you could accept an Internship in Dubai, but realise the heat really isn’t for you. On the other hand, you could accept an internship in Madrid and decide it’s the place you want to call home!
Check the Visa Requirements
Speaking of international internships – before accepting an internship internationally, make sure all of the required documentation is available to you. This includes work permits and visas – these often cost a fair amount of money, so make sure you factor that in before you agree to an international internship, as well.
Benefits of the Internship
Before making a final decision, weigh up exactly what each potential internship will give you. Is the financial support offered by one placement more important than getting unpaid work experience at the company you have dreamed of working for? If you want to become a front – end developer, is it a good idea to accept a internship which only offers graphic design experience?
Each candidate will have a different list of requirements, so don’t be afraid of discussing your needs with the Internship co-ordinator. For example, if you’re happy to accept an unpaid internship as long as visas, travel and accommodation are provided, let them know. If your resume is impressive enough, they may be able to meet your needs.
What to do Next
If this all seems overwhelming, you may find it easier to use a company like Beyond Academy to help arrange your Internship placement for you. This isn’t free, but it can take the stress out of finding a placement. It’s a great option if you don’t need a paid internship placement.
Whether you apply for internship opportunities yourself or use a 3rd party service, your application is really important. You need to ensure it sells you in the best way possible.
It’s worth remembering to tweak your application and cover letter for each potential position. A generic copy and paste cover letter will be lost in the pile if others have been specific in why they want to work with this company and take on this role in particular. Tweaking applications can be time consuming, but if you want the best chance possible, it pays to make the effort.
Finally, let me know in the comments if you can think of any other things to consider before accepting an internship.
