Internships Aren't Just for College Students

Internships aren’t just for students in high school and college anymore! An increasing number of older workers struggling to find jobs are applying, too.  They’re trying to keep their skills up-to-date, and fill any résumé gaps, and make sure they have something to say when the interviewer asks, “So, what’ve you been doing for the past year?”

The fact is, a lot of adult workers are underemployed: Meaning they’re working part-time because that’s all they can get. Or working in a position that isn’t on the same level as their skills and experience. So, accepting an internship – even an unpaid one - makes sense, especially since more than half of internships lead to full-time jobs.

Right now, 7 percent of companies are getting internship applications from workers over age 50, and one quarter are getting applications for entry-level position from the over-50 group. So, if you’re a new college grad, don’t be surprised if you end up competing with someone your grandmother’s age for your next job or internship. If you’d like to track down available internships, try the websites Internships.com, or YouTern.com.

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