The Improvement of Internship Programs in Small and Medium–Sized Enterprises

Abstract

Internships have become an increasingly popular component of higher education in companies, which provide many potential benefits to students. An internship can help students connect their studies and the business world. Thus, enabling valuable connections and networking opportunities to improve employment and career prospects. However, there are challenges that students face in securing internships, such as finding internships that align with their career goals. Successful completion of internships is a predominant factor in future career success. The research has shown that internships have an impact on the professional skills, personal growth, and capabilities of business students. To create successful internships, recommendations have been presented and discussed, including expanding and strengthening placements to include more external stakeholders and locations, and elucidating internship descriptions to meet stakeholders’ expectations, particularly among interns, for such an experience will help develop marketable skills. Overall, internships are an essential element of higher education, which can provide many potential benefits to students, colleges, and employers. This article aims to provide recommendations to improve internships at Small and Medium–sized Enterprises (SMEs). It draws on research that highlights the impact of internships on professional and personal growth, and explores challenges that students face in meeting their expectations with their internship experiences. The recommendations provided in this article aim to help SMEs create successful internships that benefit both students and employers.