Internships: A Step in the Right Direction

In 2011 statistics showed 53% of all college graduates-under the age of 25-were unemployed or underemployed by InfoWars. Today, in order to get by, millions of young degreed adults are working at retail stores or fast food restaurants.  Furthermore, to add insult to injury, college graduates cannot live their dream lifestyles due to tremendous student loan debts-which are not dischargeable in bankruptcy courts. In spite of these hardships, the human will to thrive is undaunted. Thus, many college grads have turned to post-college unpaid internships.  Unpaid internships have existed in the film and television industry for years; however, their growth in areas such as magazine publishing, art galleries, talent agencies, public relations firms and law firms is incredible.

            According to the NY Times, several internships provide valuable experience; however, many unpaid interns report that they do unskilled work and learn very little-which raises increasing questions about whether these positions violate federal rules governing such programs. In spite of the lack of guaranteed career development from these positions, many interns say they have no satisfactory alternatives. This is in part due to our sluggish economy and length of high unemployment rates. In April, for example, the unemployment rate was 13.2% for 20 to 24 year- olds.

One finds it challenging to fathom excelling from high school through college just to end up working as a waiter or a bartender.

In previous times, college graduates shied away from accepting unpaid internships but now many are relieved to find one in their industry. Even Ivy League school graduates are accepting unpaid internships. When one reads about a top Hollywood and Broadway producer, Scott Rudin, not even paying minimum wages to five interns, one can become seriously depressed. If one is not astute in managing ones thoughts, “The American Dream” can rapidly become “American Mythology.”  My strategy for mental management is to encourage myself, keep the faith, and remain optimistic. 

Although many won’t be afforded the opportunity to work with major media corporations, one has to take full advantage of the opportunities that comes one way. For instance, when I worked as a production assistant for the B.E.T Soul Train Awards (2010) in Atlanta, I seized opportunities to network with the managers, publicists, and agents of the various talents. One sure key to success in this industry is networking; it gives one a competitive advantage. Counselors suggest that future leaders attend lectures, converse among their colleagues, and build relationships.

  Finally, one can seek internships at Turner Broadcasting System, Inc. (CNN, TBS, HLN, etc.), Disney, Google, Apple, and ESPN- to name a few. These companies recruit year round. All their internships are paid! From what I’ve read, these are great, collaborative environments for skill development.  Additionally, if one showcases one’s strengths, positive mindset, professionalism, and work ethic, one might even garner a great job with a gorgeous salary. Although many have dubbed us as the ‘Generation Jobless' my goal is to prove them wrong. By accepting an internship, networking, gaining experience, and knowledge I’m taking steps in the right direction!

I hope that these words encourage anyone who reads them. ♥

☆Thanks for stopping by & I welcome all feedback!