Internship Cycle
What is Internship Cycle?
Internship Cycle is the systematic progression of stages that internship programs, particularly in larger organizations or institutions, tend to follow each year. It dictates when internships are posted, the application process, selection, the internship duration, and the subsequent feedback and review phase.
Stages of the Internship Cycle:
Research and Preparation (Pre-application phase)
Timeframe: Year-round, peaks 6-8 months before internships begin.
Activities: Prospective interns research companies, roles, gather information about application deadline, and start tailoring their resumes and cover letters.
Application Submission
Timeframe: Typically 4-6 months before the internship's start date.
Activities: Interns send in their applications, which may include a resume, cover letter, references, and sometimes a portfolio or additional documents.
Selection Process
Timeframe: 3-4 months before the start date.
Activities: Organizations review applications, conduct interviews, tests, and group discussions. This phase ends with the release of offer letters to the selected candidates.
Onboarding
Timeframe: 1 month before to the actual start date of the internship.
Activities: Selected interns are introduced to the organization, its culture, and their specific roles. This may include orientations, trainings, and meet-and-greets.
Internship Duration
Timeframe: Varies (could be a month to a year).
Activities: Interns undertake their roles, working on tasks, projects, and sometimes even attending company events or trainings.
Review and Feedback:
Timeframe: Last week of the internship or immediately after its conclusion.
Activities: Interns are provided feedback on their performance, and they too can share their internship experience with the company. Some may even be offered extended roles or full-time positions based on their performance.
Post-Internship Reflection:
Timeframe: Immediately after the internship.
Activities: Interns reflect on their learning, update their resumes, gather references or recommendation letters, and plan for their next steps in their career journey.
Benefits of Understanding the Internship Cycle:
Strategic Planning: Knowing the cycle helps applicants prepare and apply on time, increasing their chances of selection.
Enhanced Preparedness: Being aware of what comes next helps interns be better prepared, be it for interviews, the actual internship, or post-internship opportunities.
FAQs
Does every company follow the same Internship Cycle?
While many larger organizations have a structured cycle due to the volume of interns they onboard, smaller companies might have a more flexible or ad-hoc approach. Always check directly with the company or institution of interest.
Can I apply outside of the typical Internship Cycle?
Some organizations do have "rolling applications" and might accept applications year-round. However, structured internship programs in larger companies usually stick to their cycle.
Conclusion
Internship Cycle offers a structured pathway for both companies and interns, ensuring a streamlined process from application to completion. Familiarity with this cycle can be a game-changer, positioning aspirants effectively in the competitive world of internships.