8 reasons to apply for an internship!

So you're a recent graduate, and you're looking for a job. You've got a fabulous degree, but you can't get a job without experience, and you can't get experience without a job. Sound familiar? Then maybe you should consider applying for a graduate internship! It's easy to see temporary work as a distraction from your dream career, but it might be the thing that helps you land the perfect job!

Just in case you need more convincing, here are eight good reasons to apply for an internship!

1. Gain experience -- internships offered through the UEA Graduate Internship Programme offer you relevant graduate-level experience in a real-world environment.

2. Break into your chosen career -- Internships offer you the chance to develop your skills in preparation for your ideal career, and the opportunity to participate in real working projects that will develop your expertise and enhance your CV. You might gain industry-specific experience that could give you the edge over other candidates.

3. Gain a work-based reference -- The perfect complement to your academic reference. Prove to employers that you can put your transferable skills into action.

4. Perfect chance to "test the waters" --  You won't know exactly what a particular career is like until you try it. An internship gives you the chance to test out a potential industry or sector before committing to a career in that field. It could also broaden your horizons, introducing you to potential careers you hadn't considered.

5. Money! --  Interns on the Graduate Internship Programme are paid weekly at £6.08 per hour, so you can earn while you boost your career.

6. Gain confidence -- An internship is a challenge that will test your potential. While working as an intern, you'll learn about the job you're doing, which should leave you feeling confident in your ability. This will help when you apply for jobs in the future.

7. Networking -- While working as an intern, you'll probably meet a variety of people who work in that sector. This gives you the chance to network, find out about upcoming job opportunities, and get your name known, all of which could be of great benefit in the future.

8. Part-time or flexible opportunities -- Some internships will fit around your existing commitments, so there's no reason not to apply! You might also be able to study alongside, so you can really boost your potential!

An internship really can help to make you more attractive to employers, so take the opportunity to apply! Visit www.uea.ac.uk/internships to register and find out about the internships available to you. Don't delay -- open the door to your future today!