Abstract: Submission #196

Abstract Internships have gained significant popularity as an educational resource for students, bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge gained in the classroom and practical experience in real-world settings (Du-Babcock, 2016). O’Higgins & Pinedo (2018) cited in the Employment Policy Department say that there is relatively little solid evidence on the impact of internships on subsequent labour market experiences of young people. Internships are progressively being recognized as a crucial component of the transition from school to the workforce and continue to facilitate a polished shift from the academic setting to the practical world of work (Anjum, 2022). This presentation draws on my experiences as an intern in an academic institution. The main benefits include applying theoretical knowledge in the real world, developing professional connections and relationships, direct job offers are probable. Some of the issues that may be addressed are that internships are temporary and underpaying, there is too much work & we tend to be afraid to ask questions regarding work. With the anxiety normally associated with the uncertainty of employment in the social work field, internships are an excellent way for students to gain the necessary soft skills for the job market.