Evaluating the Barriers to Completing a College Internship

ECU Author/Contributor (non-ECU co-authors, if there are any, appear on document)

Colin Graham Johnson (Creator)

Institution

East Carolina University (ECU )

Web Site: http://www.ecu.edu/lib/

Abstract: Undergraduate student internships are an important aspect of the college experience for many students and are widely perceived to be formative co-curricular experiences that lead to improved long-term employment outcomes (Knouse, Tanner & Harris, 1999). Prior research suggests that internships have value for students, employers, and universities alike because they provide students opportunities for professional development, offer educators a setting to translate curriculum into real-world application, and supply employers with a low-cost option for trained talent (Brooks, et al., 1995\; Burke & Carton, 2013\; Maertz, Stoeberl & Marks, 2014). However, some question internship accessibility, especially with the rising trend of unpaid internships. This study explores the barriers for undergraduate students at East Carolina University to find, accept, and complete an internship. Surveys completed by current undergraduate students at ECU were analyzed to create profiles of internship participants versus nonparticipants and identify common barriers. This research will help inform university administrators and program leaders on how to address the needs of students entering the workforce.

Additional Information

Publication

Thesis

Language: English

Date: 2023

Subjects

Internship;barriers;access

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