Internships vs. summer jobs: Which is better for you?
As the school year comes to an end, many college students are boggled with one question: Should I get an internship or a summer job?
Understandably, it is a tough question for anyone to answer as either opportunity will provide you with a unique experience and set of skills. For example, an internship is a great resume booster and will help you clearly define your career interests and goals. On the other hand, a summer job can help you acquire crucial communication and interpersonal skills.
While both are great opportunities for college students, here's a breakdown of the benefits of an internship vs. a summer job:
Summer Internship
Pros:
- An internship is the perfect time to figure out if your desired career is the right fit for you.
- During your time at an internship, you have the opportunity to network with people in the industry.
- An internship will help boost your resume and emphasize your skills.
- Depending on how well you perform at your internship, you face the possibility of being offered a full-time position post-college.
- An internship provides the opportunity for you to gain first-hand experience and knowledge in your industry of choice.
Check out the best part-time jobs for college students during the semester:
Summer Job
Pros:
- Having a summer job will help improve your time management skills as most jobs will have you work inconsistent hours during the week.
- A summer job is proven to build your confidence.
- Unlike many internships, a summer job is an opportunity to earn some extra cash.
- A summer job allows you to expand not only your professional network but your social network as well.
- Working at a job during the summer allows you to build core skills such as communication and other interpersonal skills.
Ultimately, there's no one-size-fits-all answer. While internships can help boost your professional career, summer jobs can also provide you with vital real-world skills you'll need to succeed. Either way, the choice is yours.
