The Role of Internship Programs in Undergraduate Animal Sciences Education

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, approximately one third of Americans 25 years of age and older have earned a bachelor’s degree. With this influx of qualified graduates into the job market, it is becoming increasingly important for students to have experiences that set them apart from their peers. Experience is often highlighted as a key factor when applying for jobs and entry-level positions frequently require experience to be considered for employment. One potential way students can gain experience is through internships. Internships are an invaluable way for students to take the information learned in the classroom and apply it to a real-world setting, thus allowing for hands-on involvement and networking in a potential career field. Through internship experiences, students are also able to test possible careers to make an educated decision about their career path after college. A survey conducted by the Association of American Colleges and Universities (AACU) found that 94% of employers surveyed agree that a student’s participation in applied learning experiences, such as an internship, would lead to a higher probability of getting hired. The National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) 2017 Internship and Co-op Report states that the job offer rate for interns was 67.1%. Internships are valued by employers, but students may not be willing to complete one unless internships are compulsory. Some undergraduate programs, like the one at North Dakota State University (NDSU), require students to complete an internship prior to graduation. The internship requirements at NDSU involve not only the completion of an out-of-classroom experience, but also reflection upon that experience. Simply completing an internship may not be enough for all students to understand the value and importance of their experiences. Internship assessments completed by NDSU students include a weekly journal during the internship, along with a final report and poster presentation upon the conclusion of the internship. In one report, an NDSU student stated, “I became more confident in my passion and where I want to go in the future.” Students also receive feedback from their employer through an evaluation form where employers rate the student’s performance and say if they would like to hire the student after graduation. Exposure to new opportunities and networking possibilities make internships a valuable resource for undergraduate animal sciences students.