In this week’s podcast episode, we delve into the value of internships for students with the University of Reading’s Projects Manager, Fiorella Illes. We discuss how internships provide practical experience, offering students a valuable look into various industries and helping them make more informed career choices. Fiorella shares her personal journey from philosophy student to project manager, highlighting how an internship was key to landing her first job. Internships also enhance CVs, making graduates more competitive in the job market.

Fiorella emphasises that internships are valuable across all sectors, not just in tech. For instance, charities benefit significantly from interns, as they often lack the resources to hire full-time employees. Interns bring fresh perspectives that can enrich any organisation.

When it comes to skills, Fiorella suggests that interns should focus on developing soft skills, such as communication, commercial awareness, and presentation skills. These are often more valuable than technical abilities, which can be learned on the job. Employers, too, have a role to play in nurturing these skills by offering clear communication, setting up regular check-ins, and creating an open, supportive environment where interns feel comfortable asking questions.

The episode also touches on how technology has streamlined internship recruitment. The introduction of anonymous applications helps level the playing field by removing biases based on a student’s background or degree. This inclusivity fosters diversity, allowing students from varied disciplines to apply for roles they might not have considered before.

Finally, Fiorella discusses how internships have evolved from being largely unpaid to paid opportunities. She also expresses hope for broader access to internships for first-year students, noting that these opportunities can be just as beneficial early in a student’s career.

Internships offer essential experiences that bridge the gap between academic study and the workforce, providing students with a competitive edge and valuable skills for their future careers.

Tune in to Akoni Tech Talks for the full conversation and more insights from industry leaders – available on Spotify Podcasts,Apple Podcasts and YouTube.