Turning An Internship Into A Job Doesn't Always Work

In college, I always heard that you had to get an internship. The thing is that I had 3 internships and I also worked as an office assistant in the graduate admissions office while I was an undergrad. I thought this would make me the perfect candidate for an entry-level position. I thought I would have no problem turning an internship into a job. However, this just wasn’t the case. So, why couldn’t I get a job afterward? I have many theories as to why, but perhaps it just wasn’t the right time for me.

As you know, getting an internship is one thing, but getting a job is a whole new beast. I did informational interviews, showed my appreciation, asked for more work, stayed late, etc. I was a model intern and I followed all the steps. The problem with this is that most of the time you’re competing with interns that have done all of this too. Perhaps they have been doing it longer than you.

I’m not saying don’t do an internship. I loved my internships! They helped me so much and I got to do amazing things. I wouldn’t trade that experience for anything! What I am saying is don’t always count on turning your internship into a job. In fact, don’t worry about turning your internship into a job right now.

You should be learning valuable skills. Your supervisor should be teaching you new things. You shouldn’t be afraid to ask to be involved in more meetings. I want to emphasize that you need to stand up for yourself and ask about your future.

However, if you, too, follow all the steps and if you know you’re valuable and you still don’t get an offer, know that it’s not the end of the world. That right job, that right next step, that right opportunity will come. It really is not always about turning an internship into a job. This is coming from a girl who was told on her last day as an intern, “If we had a space open, we would totally hire you”. It worked out for me and it will work out for you!