Junior or Senior?

There are many differing opinions as to when it is most beneficial to intern- your junior or senior year. Most people would say that it is most beneficial to intern during your senior year as you are about to enter the workforce and interning is a great way to land that first job. I have found that this does not always hold true. First, interning somewhere does not always guarantee employment upon completion of your internship. Second, you may find during your internship that your interests lie elsewhere and that you need to educate yourself in an entirely new area. Interning during your junior year does not eliminate job prospects. It only means that more effort is required on your end to maintain the contacts you do make. Also, many people feel like they know exactly what it is they want to do when they come out here, but many realize, through interning, that their interests may lie in a different area. This realization can be incredibly frustrating if you are in your senior year and have only one semester left in which to explore this newfound interest. As a junior I am very grateful for the extra time I will have when I get back to school. Through my internships I have discovered new passions that I can't wait to explore when I get home!
(Melissa)