Externship vs. Internship: Which Is Better for You?
Gaining practical experience is one of the smartest moves you can make as a student or recent grad entering the workforce. Externships and internships are two powerful ways to build your resume, explore your interests, and get a firsthand look at your chosen industry.
But how do you decide between the two? In this guide, we’ll break down the differences between externships and internships, highlight the unique benefits of each, and help you decide which option fits your goals best. Whether you’re looking to dip your toes into an industry or dive headfirst into hands-on work, there’s something here for you.
What Is an Internship?
An internship is a structured opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a specific job. Lasting several weeks or months, internships often align with school semesters and can be either paid or unpaid, depending on the company and program.
As an intern, you’ll complete real-world tasks, attend meetings, and contribute to projects that directly impact the company. This experience will help you develop practical skills, like teamwork and problem-solving, while also giving you a taste of what it’s like to work in your chosen field.
Internships are also a great way to build connections. The relationships you form with your supervisors and coworkers can lead to mentorship opportunities or even full-time job offers. In fact, a recent report by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) found that 70% of interns are offered full-time jobs at the companies where they interned.
Enhance your internship cover letter and internship resume with these helpful tips and examples!
What Is an Externship?
An externship is a short-term, exploratory experience designed to help you learn about a job, company, or industry. These programs typically last anywhere from a single day to a few weeks and focus on shadowing professionals rather than completing tasks.
During an externship, you might observe meetings, tour the company’s facilities, and ask questions about career paths. This makes externships ideal for students who want to learn about a field without a long-term commitment.
Externships are especially valuable if you’re still figuring out your career goals. According to a 2023 report from Handshake, students who participated in externships were 25% more likely to have a clear career direction after graduation compared to those who didn’t.
Learn how to create an externship cover letter with this step-by-step guide.
Externship vs. Internship: Main Differences
Externships and internships both provide valuable opportunities, but they differ in structure, length, and outcomes. Here are the key differences:
Length
Externships are short, lasting a few days to a few weeks, making them easy to fit into a busy schedule. Internships, however, run longer—typically several months—and often coincide with school semesters.
Breadth
Externships let you observe a variety of roles and departments, offering a broader perspective. Internships focus on a specific job or department, giving you a deeper understanding of that area.
Participation
Externships are observational, allowing you to shadow professionals and learn by watching. Internships, on the other hand, are hands-on. You’ll take on real responsibilities, meet deadlines, and receive feedback.
Compensation
Internships are often paid, providing either hourly wages or stipends. Externships, while unpaid, give you access to invaluable connections and industry insights.
Job opportunities
Internships provide a stronger pathway to employment since they give companies a chance to evaluate your skills over time. According to NACE, 66% of employers offered full-time positions to their interns in 2024. Externships, while less immersive, are fantastic for networking and making connections that can lead to future opportunities.
Benefits of Externships
Externships are perfect for students or new grads exploring career options. Here’s why:
- Quick exposure: Externships let you explore a job or industry in a short amount of time, giving you clarity about your interests without a big commitment.
- Low commitment: You can fit externships into school breaks or weekends, making them ideal for busy students.
- Flexibility: Since externships are brief and less demanding, you can complete multiple externships across different industries to explore your options.
- Networking opportunities: Externships connect you with professionals in your desired field, leading to mentorship, referrals, or even job leads. Remember, 85% of jobs are filled through networking, according to LinkedIn.
Benefits of Internships
Internships offer a deeper, hands-on experience that’s hard to beat. Here’s what makes them so valuable:
- Hands-on experience: You’ll apply what you’ve learned in class to real-world tasks, gaining practical skills that boost your resume and confidence.
- Financial benefits: Many internships are paid, helping you earn money while you gain experience. Some even offer perks like housing, travel reimbursements, or networking events.
- Mentorship: Internships often pair you with mentors who provide guidance and feedback, which can be pivotal for career growth. A 2023 study found that mentored employees are 20% more likely to be promoted within their first year of work.
- Pathway to employment: Internships can lead directly to job offers. Over half of interns received full-time offers from their companies in 2024, according to NACE.
Learn how to find a career mentor here!
Should You Choose an Externship or an Internship?
Both externships and internships offer unique benefits. Externships are ideal for exploring career paths in a low-commitment setting, while internships provide hands-on experience and a stronger path to employment.
Why not do both? Start with an externship to explore your options, then pursue internships in the fields that spark your interest. Whichever path you choose, both can help you build your network, gain practical knowledge, and take the first step toward your dream job.
