Benefits and Drawbacks of Virtual Internships

 

By RHIANA ELYSSA

Future PR practitioners have found a new way to further their skills for their career through virtual internships.

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Last summer, after completing my first internship in Atlanta, Ga, I began searching for more innovative ways to further my skills in public relations. I wanted a company that was credible and one that would work with my school schedule. So, I began searching for a virtual internship while also looking for what others had to say about their experiences.

For the past 5 months, I have been a virtual intern for a company based out of New York. This was my first virtual internship and it was a great experience! But while there are benefits to having one, there are also drawbacks.

Benefits:

  • FLEXIBILITY– Virtual internships allow interns to be in the comfort of their home and set hours according to availability.
  • DIVERSITY– Virtual internships are offered in many countries which allows interns to virtually connect with other interns from around the world.
  • NO TRAVEL COSTS- Gas is expensive. Virtual internships allow interns to complete assignments where it is convenient for them.
  • ENHANCE COMMUNICATION SKILLS- Since interns will have to communicate with their agency via email, Skype, or telephone, interns will automatically develop better communication skills.

Drawbacks:

  • NO FEEDBACK- It is important to remember to ask the agency for feedback on the assignments completed. Sometimes assignments are given throughout the internship with out knowing if you are progressing.
  • LESS INTERACTION AND HANDS ON WORK- Virtual internships provide no personal interaction.
  • SELF DISCIPLINED- Since virtual internships are so flexible, interns must be very disciplined to complete assignments on time with out much supervision.
  • INABILITY TO BUILD INTERPERSONAL RELATIONSHIPS- While interns do have the ability to network, it is hard to develop a personal relationship with fellow interns and/or clients.

Is a virtual internship for you? For more information about virtual internships check out USA today’s article and Penny Loreto’s Guide!

 

 

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