Proven industry experience can make all the difference when it comes to landing your first professional job. But how can a student gain professional experience? That’s where the internship comes in. An internship is a temporary position that typically is associated with a student’s academic major or career interest. During their short tenure with an organization, an intern can gain valuable hands-on experience and insight while working in a professional role.
Choosing a Path
If you have a clear picture of what you plan to do after graduation — and especially if you don't — you'll benefit from the practical experience an internship can provide. Once you have the chance to dive into the type of work you plan to pursue, you'll discover one of two things: you love it and want to continue on this path, or it’s not what you envisioned and you shift toward something that suits you better. Either way, you win.
If you have a wide-ranging major, it can be difficult to zero in on a specific career path. An internship — or several — can help you explore various types of roles and industries. Remember, internships don't always have to be specific to your expected career field. In fact, internships in related fields may help you develop new skills, discover new interests, or confirm your preferred career path.
Quantified Earnings
The practical experience you can gain during an internship isn't the only important benefit. Some internships are paid, while others provide college credit. There are differences between the two, so be sure to ask and understand all the details of the position. For example, paid internships are likely to involve tasks and responsibilities that a full-time employee would handle. They’re designed more like programs, often with the possibility of a full-time, paid position. An unpaid internship, on the other hand, may involve more observation and tasks that are adjacent to the role you may be seeking after graduation. Positive results from both types of internships are likely, but it’s important to understand exactly what you’re applying for.
There’s no denying the value of a good internship. You'll come away with the practical experience potential employers are seeking while gaining industry knowledge, a refreshed perspective on your own goals, and a network of professionals to carry with you on your career journey.
CAREER CORNER
Systems Software Developer
A person who enters the tech arena tends to enjoy keeping up the latest and greatest in technology. They seek programs that make their lives easier and more interesting and fun. A systems software developer takes that personal interest and applies it to programs that consumers — whether that means the people who are part of their specific company or the public at large — will embrace.
What they do: Research, design, develop, and test operating systems-level software, compilers, and network distribution software for medical, industrial, military, communications, aerospace, business, scientific, and general computing applications. They set operational specifications and formulate and analyze software requirements. Some developers also design embedded systems software. They apply principles and techniques of computer science, engineering, and mathematical analysis.
A person in this career:
• Modifies existing software to correct errors and adapts it to new hardware, or upgrades interfaces and improves performance.
• Develops or directs software system testing or validation procedures.
• Directs software programming and the development of documentation.
• Consults with customers or other departments on project status, proposals, or technical issues, such as software system design or maintenance.
• Analyzes information to determine, recommend, and plan the installation of a new system or modification of an existing system.
• Consults with engineering staff to evaluate interface between hardware and software, develop specifications and performance requirements, or resolve customer problems.
• Designs or develops software systems, using scientific analysis and mathematical models to predict and measure outcomes and design consequences.
• Prepares reports or correspondence concerning project specifications, activities, or status.
• Confers with data processing or project managers to obtain information on limitations or capabilities for data processing projects.
• Stores, retrieves, and manipulates data for analysis of system capabilities and requirements.
How can I use this type of career to help my community?
• Design and develop software systems that can provide much-needed support and infrastructure to tribal departments and programs.
• Develop software programs for Indigenous tribal language programs, including language apps, computer games, and oral dictionaries.
