Internship vs. Externship: Which is Right for Your Career?

Externship vs. Internship: Understanding the Key Differences

Are you considering a career change and exploring structured ways to learn more? Or perhaps you're a soon-to-be college graduate seeking practical experience in your field? Internships and externships both offer valuable opportunities. While internships are well-known, externships can provide just as much insight and benefit to your career journey. Both offer hands-on training and boost your resume when applying for jobs. Depending on your current situation and goals, one might be a better fit than the other. Whether you're mid-career or just starting out, read on to learn how to decide if an internship or externship is the right move for you.

What Exactly Are Internships and Externships?

Interns typically function as entry-level employees. Internship programs often involve projects and tasks that contribute to the team's overall objectives, whether it's developing a marketing strategy or conducting research in a laboratory.

Externships offer individuals a brief glimpse into the daily operations of a business without the responsibilities of an intern or employee. The primary goal is observation – shadowing a professional to determine if that career path aligns with your interests. It's an excellent way to assess your fit without making a significant commitment.

Key Differences Between Internships and Externships

Internships are a popular option for students and those early in their careers, but this is partly because many people aren't aware of externships.

Level of Responsibility

The main difference in responsibility lies in learning versus doing. In an externship, your primary focus is absorbing information and learning from experienced professionals. Externships are valuable for students deciding on a major or those exploring a career transition.

Internships, on the other hand, expect you to apply your existing skills. You'll likely attend meetings, work on projects, and perhaps give presentations. The practical experience gained during an internship prepares you for future success, as you can highlight your accomplishments to potential employers. However, remember that internships are still training experiences. Supervisors often schedule regular check-ins to ensure you're meeting performance and development goals.

Internships often lead to full-time job offers based on the company's needs and your performance. But don't dismiss externships. They offer valuable networking opportunities, and connections made during an externship can lead to future job prospects.

Program Length

If time is a constraint, an externship might be the better choice. Externships offer greater schedule flexibility and are ideal for professionals needing time off to explore a new career. Some externships last only a day or two, while others can extend to several weeks or months.

You can also create your own externship, giving you more control over the duration. Consider pursuing multiple externships if time allows. Sometimes, professors incorporate externships into coursework, which reduces flexibility but still provides valuable experience.

Internships typically have more structured timelines. Many organizations have formal internship programs with set start and end dates, often beginning in early summer and lasting until the school year resumes. Interns commonly work a 40-hour week, similar to full-time employees.

Compensation

Paid internships are becoming more common, although compensation varies. You might receive an hourly wage, a stipend, or housing and living expenses. Some internships offer college credit instead of pay, which can be appealing to students wanting to graduate early. Check with your college to see if your internship qualifies for credit.

Studies suggest that paid interns are more likely to receive job offers, so prioritize paid opportunities if you have a choice.

Externships are almost always unpaid. You're there to observe and learn, so payment isn't usually expected. The value of determining if a career is a good fit outweighs monetary compensation. If a professor incorporates an externship into a course, you'll earn course credit but not payment for the externship itself.

Competition for Opportunities

Finding an externship can be as simple as contacting a connection on LinkedIn and requesting to shadow them. Many organizations don't have formal externship programs, but because it's a low-commitment request, they're often willing to agree.

Internships have become increasingly competitive. Large tech companies, nonprofits, and well-known organizations have rigorous application and interview processes. While it's good to apply to competitive internships, make sure to apply to a variety of programs at both large and small organizations. The skills you develop and the knowledge you gain are more important than the company's name.

To help organize your internship applications, consider using a job application tracker like the one offered by Minova. This tool helps you keep track of deadlines, resume versions, and highlights keywords from job descriptions to incorporate into your resume.

Internship vs. Externship: Which Is the Right Path for You?

Both externships and internships can benefit first-time job seekers and those changing careers. There are no real downsides to either. Choosing one often depends on personal preference and which program offers the most benefit at a given time. You could even do both, starting with an externship before applying for a longer internship.

The more you learn about a career before committing, the better, especially if it's a significant departure from your current role. Including an externship or internship on your resume demonstrates to employers that you're serious about your career path.

Remember, there's no wrong choice. Both internships and externships provide valuable learning experiences that will benefit you throughout your career.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can externships lead to employment opportunities like internships often do?

Externships are typically shorter and more observational, so they are less likely to lead directly to employment compared to internships, which often serve as a proving ground for potential hires. However, externships can still provide valuable networking opportunities and insights into a profession that could benefit future job searches.

Are externships paid positions like some internships, or are they always unpaid?

Externships are usually unpaid as they are short-term and primarily educational in nature. They are designed to offer a glimpse into a professional environment rather than provide substantial work experience. In contrast, internships may be paid or unpaid depending on the industry, company, and duration of the internship.

How do I decide whether an externship or internship is better for my career goals?

If you're seeking in-depth, hands-on experience and the possibility of employment, an internship might be more suitable. However, if you're looking to explore a career path or gain exposure to a professional setting without a long-term commitment, an externship could be the better choice. Consider your career stage, educational needs, and the time you can commit when deciding between the two.