Internships offer incredible opportunities for students to learn more about their intended fields and make meaningful connections with potential employers. In fact, according to TechJury.com, 85% of employers offer ongoing, full-time jobs to successful interns.
As an employer, it is key that you offer your interns quality experiences that will provide them with the knowledge they need to move forward into a full-time job. But what makes an internship successful? How as a business can you ensure that you are providing your interns with an experience that prepares them for their career while also supporting the bottom-line of your business.
Morgan Joy, a former intern with On Your Mark Transportation, said that “I had the honor to work beside Mark as the Social Media and Marketing Intern for On Your Mark Transportation during the summer of 2020. Straight out of college with little to no experience in the marketing field, Mark made sure I was well equipped for my future. Unlike other internships, Mark made sure I was gaining as much knowledge as I could. This was not a position filled with busywork, but instead, Mark allowed me to take point on many different projects throughout my time there.”
Internship programs that are centered on developing the skills and potential of the interns maximize the benefits for all parties involved. Believing in what your interns have to offer, and providing them with guidance along the way will help ensure it is a success for everyone.
Here we interview Joseline Aguilar about her recent experience participating in the On Your Mark Transportation Internship Program. Joseline began working in the internship program in January of 2023, and she was recently hired by one of On Your Mark Transportation’s clients, TMA Group/VanStar. She worked with them on numerous projects during her internship and was able to use that experience to move into a full-time role with their team.
- How did your internship prepare you for your full-time job?
The internship helped me prepare professionally and personally; I improved my communication and writing skills and gained confidence in myself. I gained experience in my field of study. In addition, the internship helped me to create contacts.
- What advice do you have for college students considering an internship?
I would tell them to apply for an internship because this is one of the best ways to gain experience and good references to apply for a job. Additionally, internships could help you decide which field you want to work in.
- Is there any advice you would give to employers when it comes to internships?
I would say that an internship is the best way to help students prepare to become potential employees. So, my advice would be to include an internship program in their company.
While it may take time to develop your internship program, we encourage you to consider starting one. Make relationships with the faculty at nearby college campuses, attend career fairs, and guest lecture in college classes. These are all valuable opportunities to connect with potential interns who are looking to build their resume with practical experience in their chosen career. As Melody Berg, former Sales and Marketing Intern for On Your Mark Transportation said, “I often tell my friends how appreciative I am of the School of Business at MTSU for matching us with real-life internships to give me the experience I can take into my career! I gained CRM, Lead Generation, Cold Calling, B2B, and Direct marketing skills that will benefit me in pursuing a professional sales career.”
If your team needs help developing your internship program, we encourage you to reach out to Mark Szyperski, CEO and President of On Your Mark Transportation for help.