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Internships have traditionally been a core requirement for college students, which allow them to gain real world experience, often in unpaid positions, that complements their classroom studies. A successful internship might land the student a job offer after graduation and, at the very least, will add some punch to his or her resume.

Today’s students have far more options than interning at the local weekly newspaper or a small town business. Many small and large businesses – in the United States and beyond – welcome interns, with some companies even paying a modest stipend. Students can spend their summers interning abroad or in some of America’s biggest and liveliest cities, exposing them to different cultures and ways of life, both important components of an internship experience in 2011.

What students today can expect to get out of their internship really depends on how much they put into it. A student who is enthusiastic, dedicated, and willing to do what is asked while remaining positive is much more likely to be delegated responsibilities and to experience his internship to the fullest than a student who is interning only for the class credit and has no real interest in learning.

Don’t expect to walk into an internship and be given big responsibilities like you would in a job. You’re probably going to have to do some grunt work, so be prepared for it. Don’t complain – everyone has had do the grunt work before – and you’ll be much more likely to impress your coworkers and your supervisor. You’ll also have a better chance of getting more responsibility by demonstrating that you can do what you’re asked and do it well.

Many universities offer internship opportunities abroad. While such an internship might come at a price – think of how much you’ll have to spend on travel and accommodation for the duration of the internship – you could gain far more than you spend. International experience can really help you stand out when you apply for jobs after graduation.

Getting a job after graduating from college often presents a catch 22 problem. Employers want to hire someone who is experienced, but how can you gain that experience if no one will take a chance and hire you? An internship gives you the opportunity to gain experience and to show employers that you have initiative.

Even if you aren’t extended a job offer when your internship ends, you can gain great references, which is important in your job hunt after graduation. You might also be the first person your supervisor thinks of when a position opens, so ensure you make a great impression on those with whom you work.

Networking is essential, and it starts well before you ever start your career. Get to know your coworkers and start networking with them. You may be looking for another internship after your current one ends, and they may be able to lead you in the right direction.

Internships give you an inside look at how an industry works, and they allow you to experience the career you’ve chosen without committing to it for the long haul. You could end up with the reassurance that you’ve chosen the right career, or you might find you hate it and need to consider alternatives.

An internship can be a pivotal part of your college experience, if you go into it with the right attitude. You’re there to learn and to help your supervisor and coworkers and, in return, you will gain invaluable experience. 

About Author:- Frankie Eybsen is a career and education blogger.  He currently works with ResumeBucket and their collection of sample resumes.