Last year a government-commissioned report suggested that universities should include internships as part of their degree programmes. It is often suggested that students should try to secure work experience during the summer vacation. This is because, in the competitive world we live in today, internships are seen as a pre-requisite to any job application.
It is commonly thought that some internships are not paid. This has had a serious effect on students from unprivileged backgrounds who cannot afford taking work without being remunerated. This has in turn made the internships the preserve for undergraduates from wealthier homes.
Sir Tim Wilson, the author of the review of university-business collaboration, suggests that in order to support work experience for undergraduates the government should support firms offering paid internships with tax credits. The universities should also contribute its funds to poorer undergraduates if they are going through any unpaid internships. This is believed to be a ‘legitimate use’ of the tuition fees rise.
Dr Wendy Piatt, the director general of Russell Group, also emphasized that employability skills should be the key part of the curriculum. Business secretary, Vince Cable, also stated that the best universities these days are creating deeper links with businesses and are encouraging internships and placements for their students.
However, the report suggests that there has been a decline in the number of placement year students take. It has declined from 9.5% of all full-time undergraduates in 2003 to 7% in 2010.
One of the main reasons could be the way students are screened previous any interview. The process has always been accepting the bright students from the best universities and this has had a negative impact on students from other universities. Therefore, the firms should have a better screening process that supports diversity.
As the summer approaches there are various firms offering internships and placements. Here are some sites where you may be able to find internships for this summer:
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