Declining economy raises questions about student summer internships

With the economy down and state unemployment rising, students are questioning the availability of summer internships even as University career counselors say the experience is as vital as ever.

Indiana’s unemployment rose to 8.2 percent in December, up from 7.1 percent in November, mirroring national unemployment trends.

Crystal Smith, senior assistant director of University and Internal Relations at the Career Development Center and Arts & Sciences Career Services, recently attended an internship symposium where Richard Bottner, president and CEO of Intern Bridge, Inc., was the keynote speaker.

At the symposium, Bottner said according to his research, the amount of internship opportunities does not appear to be declining, Smith said.

“In actuality, internships are becoming even more of a significant part in how employers recruit full-time talent,” she said.

But while internships are significant, sophomore Loretta Olker said she thinks they will be harder to find in certain fields, such as business and journalism.

“I’m worried about finding an internship,” she said. “I think companies are cutting back due to lack of money. If they cut back on internships, then they don’t have to cut full-time employees.”

Freshman Kyle Tosh said he thinks companies and employers are going to reach out to college students because they can bring new and fresh ideas.

“It’s important for companies to stay on the edge,” he said.

According to a 2005 survey conducted by the National Association of Colleges and Employers, employers on average reported more than three out of five college hires had internship experience.

“Internships can lead to full-time jobs, a better understanding of your ‘next step’ career goals or a set of new contacts and skills,” Smith said.

Many resources are available for students to find internship opportunities. The Career Development Center provides sources such as its Web site, www.IUcareers.com, internship and career fairs and local community service employers.

Kelley School of Business students can also seek help in finding an internship at the office of Undergraduate Career Services.

Internship-rating Web sites have become a popular tool for students as well.

Internshipratings.com, a Web site developed by Boston University students Lauren Grunstein and Stephanie Gurtman, allows students to rate, research and compare internships in various industries across the United States.

Since its launch in 2007, the Web site has accumulated 900 members, 675 ratings and 475 companies, including XM Satellite Radio, ABC, MTV, AOL and Mullen Communications.

Besides providing students with a way to rate and find internships, the Web site offers an interactive career advice column featuring articles from career service professionals. The categories include industry-specific advice, intern tips, office life and personal internship experience.

“Obtaining an internship is a great way to gain valuable skills and put what you have learned in the classroom to use in the working world,” Smith said, adding that “it is imperative for students to be focused, directed and connected in order to acquire a meaningful internship before graduation.”