Why Internships Matter More Than Ever
In today’s job market, internships have moved beyond being “optional extras” on a CV. They are now one of the most practical ways to demonstrate skill, commitment, and adaptability—especially if you’re an international student aiming to secure a job during your post-study work period.
For students in the UK, this is particularly important. The Graduate Route now offers 18 months (previously 24 months) for you to work after completing your studies. Those months can go by fast, and employers often favour candidates who already have relevant work experience.
That’s where internships make a real difference.
From Short-Term Work to Long-Term Value
The value of an internship isn’t limited to the weeks or months you spend in the role. Done right, it becomes an asset you can leverage for years. Here’s how:
1. Choose Internships Aligned to Your Career Goals
The closer your internship is to the career you want, the easier it becomes to pitch yourself for relevant roles later.
Example: If you want to work in cybersecurity, an internship in IT security, even at a small firm, will count more than a generic office role.
2. Treat It Like a Real Job
Approach your internship with the same professionalism as you would a full-time role. This means meeting deadlines, proactively solving problems, and building relationships with colleagues. Employers value references and recommendations from supervisors who have seen your best work.
3. Build a Portfolio of Results
Instead of simply listing “Intern at Company X” on your CV, highlight the impact you made:
- Projects completed
- Problems solved
- Measurable results achieved
Concrete examples make you stand out during interviews.
4. Network Within the Company
Your internship is not just about the tasks you perform—it’s also a chance to build connections. Attend team meetings, talk to people in other departments, and stay in touch after your internship ends.
Internships and Post-Study Work Opportunities in the UK
If you’re an international student in the UK, your post-study job hunt starts before you graduate. Here’s why internships are crucial in this stage:
- They Build Relevant UK Work Experience: Many employers prefer candidates who have worked in the UK, even if for a short period, as it proves you understand local workplace culture.
- They Make You More Competitive for Tier 2 Sponsorship: Once your Graduate Route period ends, you’ll need a sponsored role to continue working in the UK. Employers are far more likely to sponsor someone they’ve seen perform during an internship or short-term contract.
- They Help You Transition to Full-Time Roles: Some internships turn into job offers—especially if you’ve proven yourself as a reliable and skilled contributor.
Pro Tip for International Students:
Don’t wait until your post-study period begins to gain work experience. Apply for internships during your course so you graduate with both a degree and a CV full of relevant achievements.
Turning an Internship Into Career Credibility
The difference between a “line on a CV” and true career credibility is what you do after the internship. Here’s how to maximise its impact:
1. Update Your CV Immediately
Don’t just add the job title—write a results-focused description that includes:
- Key skills gained
- Measurable achievements
- Tools or technologies used
2. Optimise Your LinkedIn Profile
Add your internship under “Experience,” upload any public projects you’ve worked on, and request a recommendation from your supervisor.
3. Create Stories for Interviews
Employers love specific, real-world examples. Turn your internship experiences into short, engaging stories that demonstrate your skills and problem-solving ability.
4. Stay Connected
Send a thank-you note when your internship ends. Connect with your colleagues on LinkedIn. Maintaining relationships can open doors months or years later.
Avoiding Common Internship Mistakes
Many students miss out on the long-term value of internships because they make avoidable mistakes:
- Choosing Internships Only for the Brand Name – Big names are nice, but smaller companies often give you more hands-on experience.
- Not Asking for Feedback – Constructive criticism during your internship helps you improve before stepping into a permanent role.
- Failing to Document Your Work – Keep a record of your projects so you can refer back to them later.
How Erudmite Can Help
At Erudmite, we guide students not only through UK university admissions but also in career planning—including internship strategy.
We help you:
- Identify high-value internships in your target industry
- Prepare CVs and cover letters that stand out
- Practice for internship interviews
- Plan a post-study work strategy that maximises your 18-month Graduate Route window
By combining academic success with practical experience, we help you make the most of your time in the UK.
FAQs
1. Can I do internships while studying in the UK?
Yes, as long as you follow your visa’s work-hour restrictions.
2. Do unpaid internships still count for experience?
Absolutely—if they’re in your target field, they can be just as valuable for your CV.
3. How do I find internships in the UK?
Use university career services, LinkedIn, job boards, and industry-specific networks.
4. Can internships lead to a work permit?
Not directly, but they increase your chances of being hired in a role that qualifies for sponsorship.
5. Should I prioritise paid internships over relevant ones?
If possible, choose relevance over pay—especially if the role aligns closely with your career path.
