“The Future Belongs to Those Who Learn More Skills and Combine Them in Creative Ways” – Robert Greene

As we focus on creating a vibrant and thriving region, it's crucial that we consider how we can support students in our area. By helping them build skills and develop National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) competencies, we can create an environment that fosters creativity and innovation. As Robert Greene’s quote highlights, when students are encouraged to combine skills in creative ways, they unlock their full potential.

The key to keeping our talented students here in Southeastern North Carolina is building a sense of community, belonging, and opportunity. By offering students paid internships, mentorship, and a robust support system, we prepare them to thrive, develop strong connections, and gain the skills they need to become valuable contributors to our region. One way to show students that we are invested in their futures and want them to remain and grow within our community is through paid internships.

Moreover, paid internships provide students with financial support to ease the burden of living expenses, while also giving them access to a network of mentors, sponsors, and coaches who can guide them through the challenges of early career development. This investment in their professional growth enhances their opportunities for future success and helps build a strong pipeline of talent for businesses in our area.

What Is Needed to Create an Impactful Internship Program

To build successful internship programs that provide meaningful experiences for students and tangible value for employers, several key components must be considered:

• Clear Learning Goals and Objectives Establishing well-defined learning goals ensures that interns gain valuable, hands-on experience that aligns with their academic and professional aspirations. These goals should focus on both skill development and personal growth, ensuring that students leave with a deeper understanding of their field and how to apply their knowledge in a real-world setting.
• Competitive Pay or Stipend to Support Student Expenses Providing fair compensation is critical for attracting and retaining talent. Paid internships not only help cover students' living expenses but also demonstrate that employers are genuinely invested in their professional development. Offering a competitive hourly wage of $18-$20 (or at least meeting the minimum wage standards) encourages students to take these opportunities seriously and fosters a sense of mutual respect between employer and intern.
• Dedicated Mentors and Supportive Team Members Internships are most impactful when interns have access to experienced professionals who can provide guidance, feedback, and support. Mentorship plays a pivotal role in helping students navigate challenges, gain industry insights, and develop professional skills. Having a strong support system within the organization ensures that students feel valued, connected, and motivated to contribute their best work.
• A Supervisor Who Regularly Checks in with interns and creates effective communication between the intern and their supervisor is essential for success. Regular check-ins allow interns to discuss their progress, ask questions, and receive constructive feedback. This ongoing dialogue fosters a positive learning environment and ensures that interns are on track to meet their learning objectives while also addressing any issues that may arise.
• Treating Interns as Part of the Team To cultivate a sense of belonging and responsibility, it’s crucial that interns feel like they are truly part of the team. When employers involve interns in team meetings, collaborative projects, and daily operations, it builds their confidence and provides them with a better understanding of the company’s culture and processes. Feeling like an integral member of the team encourages interns to be more engaged and proactive in their work.
• Upfront and Clear Goals and Expectations Setting clear expectations from the beginning ensures that both employers and interns understand their respective roles and responsibilities. This includes:
  • Attendance: Clear guidelines on work hours, punctuality, and any time-off policies help interns maintain professionalism and avoid misunderstandings.
  • Professionalism: Interns should be aware of the standards for workplace behavior, including communication etiquette, dress code, and conduct within the office environment.
  • Communication: Emphasizing the importance of clear, timely, and respectful communication helps interns develop key professional skills that are crucial in any career.
  • Teamwork: Encouraging collaboration and emphasizing the importance of working together helps interns develop interpersonal skills and prepares them for future work environments.

Local Partnerships

The UNCW Career Center has fostered excellent partnerships with local businesses and organizations, creating internship opportunities that have turned into full-time job offers for many students. These partnerships are a testament to the value of internships and how they contribute to the growth of both students and employers.

If you are interested in creating or expanding an internship program within your organization, we highly encourage you to connect with the UNCW Career Center. We can provide you with the resources and support necessary to build an impactful internship program that benefits both your company and the next generation of talent in our region.