Providing internship experiences is a significant part of the learning experience for students and strongly valued and supported by Illinois State faculty and the Career Center. In fact, such experiential learning not only adds to student learning outcomes, but affects a student’s marketability and potential for career success.
The National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) 2012 Student Survey reported that 55 percent of 2012 college graduates had an internship or co-op experience, 63 percent of college graduates with paid internship experience received job offers, and 41 percent of college graduates who had unpaid internships received job offers.
“For employers who are looking for the cream of the crop among college-educated, entry-level employees, an internship program is the best way for them to build a pipeline of talented, young professionals,” reports Experience.com. “Approximately 66 percent of the more than 2,800 students surveyed have held at least one internship. Thirty-seven percent of students reported that internships are one of the most effective job search resources.” In addition, “internships open all sorts of doors for students. Students gain an insider’s view to a possible career path and networking opportunities … (all which) could lead to a full-time position for that company.”
Internship opportunities
The Career Center hosts Fall and Spring Internship Fairs annually to connect students with employers seeking Illinois State talent for their internship openings. The Fall Internship Fair held in September 2012 brought 60 employers together with 956 students interested in applying for their internship opportunities. The Spring Internship Fair held February 5 brought 54 employers together with 830 students.
Students can also identify and apply for internships and professional practice experiences using the Career Center job posting system eRecruiting.
For more information about internship opportunities and trends, contact the Career Center.
