An internship experience can be very beneficial for students who are unsure of what kind of specific work they wish to pursue after they graduate. Obtaining a hands-on work experience will allow students to test the waters of the working world by demonstrating strengths and weaknesses in a real-world environment. Even though internships don’t always live up to expectations, they can provide students with a better sense of their interests and what kind of work they would like to do after graduation.

Many companies and organizations offer internships that are three weeks to a semester long. However, if you make a lasting impression as an intern, there’s a good chance you’ll be able to extend your stay or even get hired permanently. Employers recruit more than 62 percent of their new full-time employees from internship programs, according to a survey conducted by the National Association of Colleges and Employers.

The internship experience is worthwhile for students who want to stray away from the classroom and learn in a professional setting. Winter break is an excellent time for undergraduates to take a look at the internships available and apply for a variety of positions. Although it’s hard for students with jobs to dedicate a significant amount of time to an internship, the benefits of doing so can make even an unpaid position worthwhile. Hands-on experience at a job that interests you is a great way to build your résumé and can potentially jump-start your career. Students, especially those nearing graduation, should take advantage of the abundant and diverse internship opportunities available in the Twin Cities.