Internship Vs. Externship: Understanding The Difference

When it comes to gaining hands-on experience in a particular field of study or industry, two terms that are often used are “internship” and “externship”. While both offer practical experience, they differ in terms of structure, length, and goals. In this article, we will delve into the details of each option and help you determine which one may be best suited for your career goals.

What is an Internship?

An internship is a structured program designed to provide students or recent graduates with practical work experience in their field of study or interest. Typically, internships are offered by companies or organizations and are usually paid, although some may be unpaid. Internships can last anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on the program and the company’s needs.

The Benefits of an Internship

• Hands-on experience: Internships provide the opportunity to apply the knowledge gained in the classroom to real-life situations.
• Networking: Internships allow you to meet and connect with professionals in your industry, potentially leading to future job opportunities.
• Resume building: Internships provide valuable experience that can be added to your resume, making you a more competitive candidate in the job market.
• Learning opportunities: Internships allow you to learn new skills and gain exposure to different aspects of the industry.

Types of Internships

There are several types of internships, including:

• Summer internships: These internships are typically offered during the summer months and may last anywhere from a few weeks to several months.
• Part-time internships: These internships are designed to work around a student’s class schedule and may be offered during the academic year or summer months.
• Virtual internships: These internships are completed remotely, allowing students to gain experience from anywhere in the world.
• Co-op programs: These programs are typically offered by universities and involve alternating periods of work and study.

What is an Externship?

An externship, also known as a shadowing experience, is a shorter, less structured program than an internship. Externships are typically unpaid and last anywhere from a few days to a few weeks. The goal of an externship is to provide students with the opportunity to observe professionals in their chosen field and gain a better understanding of what the job entails.

The Benefits of an Externship

• Observation: Externships provide the opportunity to observe professionals in the industry and gain a better understanding of the job.
• Networking: Externships allow students to connect with professionals in the industry, potentially leading to future job opportunities.
• Resume building: Externships can be added to a resume as work experience, making the candidate more competitive in the job market.
• Clarity: Externships can help students determine if a particular field or job is right for them.

Types of Externships

There are several types of externships, including:

• Job shadowing: This type of externship involves observing a professional in their day-to-day work.
• Externship programs: These programs are typically offered by universities and involve a shorter, less structured version of an internship.
• Externship courses: These courses are designed to provide students with an overview of a particular industry or field.

Which is Right for You?

The decision between an internship and an externship ultimately depends on your career goals and personal preferences. If you are looking for a more structured program that provides hands-on experience and the opportunity to learn new skills, an internship may be the better option. However, if you are looking for a shorter, less structured program that allows you to observe professionals in the industry and gain a better understanding of the job, an externship may be the way to go.

FAQs

Q: Are internships always paid?

A: No, not all internships are paid. However, many companies do offer paid internships as a way to attract top talent and provide fair compensation for the work performed.

Q: Can I receive academic credit for an internship or externship?

A: Yes, many universities offer academic credit for internships and externships. Check with your academic advisor or career center for more information.

Q: Can internships and externships lead to job offers?

A: Yes, both internships and externships can lead to job offers. By making a good impression and networking with professionals in the industry, you may be offered a job upon completion of the program.

Q: How do I find an internship or externship?

A: There are several ways to find internships and externships, including through your university’s career center, online job boards, company websites, and networking with professionals in your industry.

Q: Can I do both an internship and an externship?

A: Yes, it is possible to do both an internship and an externship. However, it is important to consider the time commitment and ensure that you are able to balance both programs with your other responsibilities.