Internships are short-term work placements (often between 4-10 weeks during the summer) which tend to centre on a student's academic background. This experience can be both full / part time.

Advantages of internships:

• Allows you to determine if an industry / profession is your preferred career option.
• Experience gained from internships can provide a much-needed "foot-in-the-door".
• Gain experience of different working cultures.
• Acquire useful networking contacts.
• Expand / develop your transferable skills (such as communication skills).
• Increase your confidence and discover your strengths / weaknesses.
• Increase your chances of employment following graduation due to your experience.

Disadvantages of internships:

• Internships often have a lot of competition for places and require you to make applications months before - good planning is essential.

Subscribe to our careers advice newsletter for a free CV template

On a budget? Try our CV templates!