Students blog

When students are seniors in high school, their biggest worry is finding the best university to attend in the upcoming fall. For seniors in college, it’s about finding the right career after graduation. For juniors in college, their whole concern is finding a co-op/internship that will eventually help them find that job in the coming year.

Finding a co-op/internship was one of the most challenging tasks I had to accomplish in my junior year. I was constantly checking LinkedIn or Handshake for postings, attending conferences every month, and completing interview after interview. After finally landing one of the most prestigious internships in my major, I moved across the country for the summer and went on some of the wildest adventures.

While many talk about the positives of internships, such as valuable experiences and networking opportunities, few prepare you for the potential drawbacks. Personally, one of the biggest challenges was being placed in an office without other interns. Many people will be placed with other interns, it all depends on the company and if they’re willing to take on that responsibility, but for me, I was alone, on the other side of the country, away from friends and family. Despite the loneliness, I cherished the opportunity and learned immensely, though adjusting to not seeing my friends daily was tough.

Another aspect to consider is the role itself. As an intern, you're often in a learning phase rather than handling full responsibilities like regular employees. There were days of boredom and busy work, yet the hectic days taught me invaluable lessons. There are a few cons to co-ops/internships, but I wish that somebody had told me about potential disadvantages, so I was better prepared.

Internships are also some of the most rewarding experiences a college student can have. Not only do they offer extensive networking opportunities, but they allow you to gain insights into your desired career. My internship program was split into multiple parts, allowing me to experience different roles and companies within my major, broadening my experience further. However, not all internships offer such flexibility.

Overall, my experience was positive. I was able to develop my skills and gain real-life experience. I encourage pursuing internships but advise thorough research into the company culture and environment. Understanding what to expect ensures your experience is fulfilling and beneficial for your future career. You want your experience to be truly fulfilling and the best it can be for your future career. So, while working towards your internship goals, remember to embrace adventure and enjoy every moment—make the most of your summer!

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Many students, myself included, have struggled to figure which major to choose in college. Having the opportunity to add concentrations, minors, and certificates to your degree allows you to pick a major while adding other interests. Pursuing multiple majors, minors, or certificates is a strategic approach that not only enhances one's personal development but also their professional marketability. Having a multifaceted education offers a comprehensive and complex skill set as well as adaptability, which are highly sought after attributes.

Customize Your Degree

Multiple academic qualifications facilitate the development of a diversified skill set. In today’s job market, employers are looking for individuals who have a broad spectrum of skills and knowledge, not just an expert in a singular field. For example, a student majoring in Marketing might choose to concentrate in Marketing Research and Analytics and add a minor in Sales. That combination of studies allows the individual to have a unique blend of skills, making them versatile and capable of contributing various things to a project or company.

Combines Disciplines

Pursuing multiple disciplines encourages a holistic understanding of complex issues. This is particularly beneficial in careers that integrate different perspectives, leading to innovative solutions and breakthroughs. For example, combining Environmental Science with Political Science and a certificate in Sustainability equips graduates with scientific knowledge, policy understanding, and sustainable knowledge needed to take on environmental challenges. This not only enhances problem-solving skills but also prepares individuals to address issues with a well-rounded perspective.

Proves Work Ethic

The pursuit of multiple majors, minors, and certificates is a testament to an individual’s commitment, work ethic, and intellectual curiosity. The individual’s willingness to go beyond the bare minimum expresses an eagerness to engage further in the learning process. These are specific qualities that employers are looking for because they suggest a motivated and dedicated approach to one's professional development. The connections between multiple departments also offers significant advantages. They offer diverse perspectives, mentorship opportunities, and access to a broader array of career paths and networking opportunities.

The enrichment of one’s academic and professional development can be enhanced with the completion of multiple majors, minors, or certificates. It equips students with a broad skill set and adaptability needed to excel in today’s workforce. This lays a foundation for lifelong learning and career development.

Do you have a compelling story or student success tips you’d like to see published on the Pearson Students blog?  If you are a college student and interested in writing for us – click here to pitch your idea and get started!