Students’ perspectives on an internship experience

Purpose The study aimed to evaluate whether internship experiences provide students with meaningful training post the COVID-19 pandemic through a hands-on approach, thereby enhancing career readiness upon graduation. Design/methodology/approach The Career Benefits of Co-Op/Internship Experience Survey, supplemented with demographic questions and one open-ended query, was administered to students at the conclusion of their 16-week internship experience. Findings Results indicated a generally positive internship experience, as reflected in the overall participant responses (M = 4.42, SD = 0.18). Furthermore, the internship experience enhanced participant’s respect for diversity and understanding of cultural differences (M = 4.67, SD = 0.46). Research limitations/implications This study determined that students perceive internships as beneficial for their career readiness post-graduation. It was limited to a single semester and two disciplines at one regional university. Further research should encompass a broader range of disciplines and a larger student sample. Practical implications Internships foster partnerships between universities and industries, thereby better preparing students for their future careers. Students learn first hand the soft skills necessary to become successful employees after graduation. Social implications This study examines students’ perceptions of their readiness to enter their chosen career fields post-graduation by providing them with a preview of workforce requirements through the internship process. The social implications include a better prepared workforce for the new challenges and retention of trained workers. Originality/value This research is beneficial for academics involved in workforce preparation, particularly in contexts where there is a shortage of adequately prepared workers.