Why do an Otago business internship?

“This internship has been a great opportunity for me to put my classroom knowledge into practice, and to experience the practical side of my studies. I now feel more focused and have better direction as to where I am heading with the rest of my studies.”
Renee Sutherland

The Otago Internship Programme provides interns with an invaluable edge; one that sets them apart from other Commerce graduates in the competitive employment marketplace.

As an intern, you'll undertake paid employment while completing the distance learning paper BSNS 301. This allows you to put into practice the knowledge and skills learnt during your study, and gain practical business experience at the same time.

Reasons to apply for the Internship Programme

“Internships offer a practical way of understanding academic studies - I have a much better appreciation of how a business actually operates in the real world. I now know what I need to study and what skills I need to finish at university in order to pursue the job I want.”
Nathan Wilson

"From the moment I discovered the programme I knew what my plans were. It provided an income as well as an amazing learning curve. I knew I had a broad degree and still had no idea what direction I wanted to go in. The Internship programme provided a number of opportunities."
Kimberley Thompson

Four key reasons for applying for an internship:

1. Professional and personal development

   Enhance your employability, by putting your academic achievements to the test in the real business world before you graduate.
   Find out more about who you are - your strengths, weaknesses, and interests. Are you a team player? What is your communication style?

2. Make the most of the rest of your studies

   Refocus your goals and studies, and be more strategic about the papers you select. You have had a taste of the business world - now make sure your degree is going to take you where you want to go.

3. Career development and planning

   Sample your prospective career before you graduate and make more informed choices when planning your career. Enhance your CV with the work experience gained during your internship and secure a role with carefully honed interview skills.

4. Professional networking

   Network with successful industry professionals. It's not always about 'what you know' but 'who you know' – an internship is your opportunity to meet industry professionals and learn from them. Keep in touch with them long after your internship ends!