Are unpaid internships worth it?

The topic of unpaid internships has become one of the most debatable topics online. Especially among college students and Gen Zs trying to kick-start their professional journey.

While these unpaid opportunities may offer a pathway to learn skills and get into the professional world, the absence of a stipend raises significant questions about their overall worth. In short, it makes the whole idea of unpaid internships a scam.

But is it? In this article, we will talk about the pros and cons of unpaid internships and explore alternative options. We will look at some practical tips for maximizing the benefits in case you end up with an unpaid internship.

Disclaimer: We are on your side.

Our Tweet about Unpaid Internship

The world is not balanced. While unpaid internships are a standard entry point for individuals looking to gain hands-on experience, a huge segment boycotts it. And they are right, but to an extent.

Last month, we dropped a tweet about unpaid internships, which got a lot of hate. Well, the hate was justified to an extent, but hear me out:

The tweet says: “If you’re a fresher with no solid skills and experience, there is no harm in doing an unpaid internship.”

Imagine it like this – would a company really hire someone without skills and pay them? Probably not. But if they offer to train you and help you improve your skills while you intern without pay, it could be a valuable learning experience.

Of course, if this arrangement doesn’t seem fair to you, there’s always the option to work on gaining skills, proving yourself, and eventually landing a paid internship.

There is nothing wrong or right about either of these. The real problem arises when companies take advantage of free interns instead of investing in their training and development.

Okay, now, let me talk about the pros and cons of unpaid internships:

Pros of Unpaid Internships

You may scoff at the word ‘pros’ being used with ‘unpaid internships’, but keep reading with an open mind.

Well, this section is more about the pros of internships, paid or unpaid:

1. Hands-on Experience: Unpaid internships offer you the chance to work on real projects, collaborate with industry professionals, and gain practical skills that are invaluable in today’s competitive and uncertain job market.
2. Networking and Mentorship: As an intern (paid or unpaid), you often have access to networking events, mentorship programs, and professional development opportunities. This allows you to build meaningful relationships and expand your professional network.
3. Exploration of Career Paths: Internships provide a platform for you to explore different career paths and industries, helping you narrow down your interests and identify potential career trajectories. I personally did 3 internships (1 unpaid) before I figured out my niche or writing.
4. Resume Building: Completing an internship adds value to a resume, showcasing practical experience, relevant skills, and a proactive approach to career development. Let’s be honest, you only mention the internship on your resume. You don’t state if it was paid or unpaid.
5. Easier to get: This is the only extra pro of getting an unpaid internship. You can get an unpaid internship much easier than paid ones. Even if you are poor at real world skills. If I had no solid skills, I’d jump at the opportunity.

Also Read: Top 7 Internship Application Strategies for You

Cons of Unpaid Internships

Before you misunderstand me and blame me for sprouting non-sense, here are some cons of unpaid internships:

1. Financial Strain: One of the most significant and talked about drawbacks of unpaid internships is the financial burden they place on participants. Without a stipend or salary, interns may struggle to cover basic living expenses, limiting accessibility for individuals from low-income backgrounds. Especially if you don’t live with your parents.
2. Limited Diversity: The financial barriers associated with unpaid internships often result in a lack of diversity among participants. This practice may reinforce existing disparities within industries and limit opportunities for underrepresented groups.
3. Potential Exploitation: The debate on fair compensation for interns raises ethical questions about the value of unpaid work and the potential exploitation of young talent. Masses agree that this culture of unpaid internships raises questions about the equity and value of unpaid work.
4. No-prioritization of unpaid interns: Another drawback is the potential lack of mentorship and professional development opportunities. Without financial compensation, interns may not receive the same level of guidance and support as paid employees, impacting their overall learning experience.

Alternatives to Unpaid Internships

We’ve talked about all the possible pros and cons of doing unpaid internships, but I know you are still not convinced. So:

For those still hesitant about unpaid internships or facing financial constraints, there are alternative options that offer valuable experience and potential income.

1. Paid internships (I mean, yeah, obviously) are everything an unpaid internship can never be. Paid internships, for example, provide the benefits of hands-on experience combined with financial remuneration. These ensure that interns are compensated for their contributions, reducing financial strain and making internships more accessible to a wider range of individuals.
2. Freelance work: Another alternative that allows individuals to gain experience and earn income simultaneously. Freelancers can work on projects in their field of interest, building a portfolio and developing valuable skills.
3. Part-time jobs in related industries also offer practical experience and financial stability. Interns can explore job opportunities that align with their career goals while earning income to support themselves.
4. Industry-specific programs, such as apprenticeships or training initiatives, provide structured learning experiences with a focus on skill development and career advancement. These programs often combine classroom instruction with hands-on training, preparing participants for success in their chosen field.

But there’s a catch:

All of these alternatives require you to have a solid set of skills, which may not be too important when applying for unpaid internships. In short, the only way to escape from the trap of unpaid internships is to build real-world skills!

Tips for Making the Most of an Unpaid Internship

In case you somehow get ‘stuck’ with unpaid internships, here’s how you can enhance the overall experience and maximize the benefits gained.

1. Clarify Expectations: Before starting your internship, have a detailed discussion with your supervisor about your roles, responsibilities, and learning objectives. Understanding what is expected of you can help you make the most of your internship experience.
2. Set Learning Goals: Identify specific skills or knowledge areas you want to develop during your internship. Create a plan to achieve these goals, and regularly assess your progress.
3. Seek Feedback: Actively seek feedback from your supervisor and colleagues on your performance. Use this feedback to improve your skills and make adjustments as needed.
4. Network Strategically: Take advantage of networking opportunities within your organization and industry. Attend events, connect with professionals, and build relationships that can support your career growth.
5. Document Your Achievements: Keep track of your accomplishments, projects, and contributions during your internship. This documentation will be valuable when updating your resume or discussing your experience in future job interviews.
6. Reflect and Learn: Take time to reflect on your experiences, lessons learned, and areas for improvement. Use this reflection period to grow professionally and make the most of your internship experience.

In short, forget about the compensation, work, and learn the best you can.

My Final Verdict

See, we are all wrong. Unpaid internships are not bad. People who hire unpaid interns and treat them as labors are bad. There have been so many instances of unpaid interns being exploited that the whole notion of unpaid internships is defamed.

But it is what it is. Finally, the decision to pursue an unpaid internship depends totally on you. If you get a chance to do an unpaid internship, look at it from the angle of learning and treatment, not money.

At last, there is no solid answer to ‘are unpaid internships worth it’. The only conclusive statement would be – it depends.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is an unpaid internship good or bad?

The answer depends on various factors, such as your financial situation, career goals, and the specific internship opportunity. However, they may also pose financial challenges and raise ethical concerns about fair compensation for interns. It’s essential to weigh the pros and cons carefully and consider alternative options if needed.

2. Do unpaid internships look bad on a resume?

Unpaid internships do not necessarily look bad on a resume, especially if they provide valuable learning experiences and relevant skills. Employers often value practical experience and hands-on learning, regardless of whether the internship is paid or unpaid.

3. What do you expect from an unpaid internship?

You can expect to gain practical experience, develop new skills, expand your professional network, and explore different career paths. You should also expect opportunities for mentorship, feedback on your work, and exposure to industry practices.

4. What are the disadvantages of unpaid internships?

The disadvantages of unpaid internships include financial strain, limited access for individuals from low-income backgrounds, potential exploitation of young talent, and the lack of fair compensation for interns’ contributions.

5. How do you survive an unpaid internship?

Some tips for surviving an unpaid internship include setting clear goals, seeking feedback regularly, networking strategically, documenting your achievements, and staying motivated and focused on your learning and growth.

6. Are paid internships better than unpaid internships?

Paid internships offer the benefit of financial compensation, which can help cover living expenses and reduce financial strain. They may also provide a higher level of mentorship, professional development opportunities, and a more structured learning experience.