Proceedings of The 8th International Conference on New Approaches in Education
Year: 2024
DOI:
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The Transformative Power of Internships in Professional and Personal Development
Stella Zorpa
ABSTRACT:
Internship programs in higher education play a fundamental role in bridging the gap between academic knowledge and practical application, significantly contributing to both professional and personal development. These programs offer students and young professionals the opportunity to gain hands-on experience, develop industry-specific skills, and build a professional network, which are essential for career advancement. Internships provide a real-world context to theoretical learning, enabling participants to apply and test their academic knowledge in practical settings. Furthermore, they foster essential soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving, which are critical in any professional environment. On a personal level, internships enhance self-confidence, foster a sense of responsibility, and provide clarity in career aspirations. By navigating the challenges and expectations of a professional setting, interns develop a deeper understanding of workplace dynamics and their own professional strengths and weaknesses. This comprehensive development prepares individuals for future employment, making them more competitive in the job market and better equipped to make informed career choices. Thus, internship programs are invaluable in shaping well-rounded, competent, and confident professionals ready to meet the demands of today’s dynamic workforce. The purpose of this paper is to analyze existing research on the benefits and challenges of internships in ACC Akademia College, while qualitative methods, such as interviews and focus groups with former interns, provide in-depth insights into personal experiences and professional growth.
keywords: career progression, practical knowledge, traineeship