How Likely Are You to Get a Job After an Internship? Unlocking Your Post-Internship Career Potential
How Likely Are You to Get a Job After an Internship? Unlocking Your Post-Internship Career Potential
It's a question many aspiring professionals ponder as they navigate the often demanding yet incredibly rewarding landscape of internships: How likely are you to get a job after an internship? The short answer, and the one that often brings a sigh of relief or a spark of hope, is that internships significantly boost your chances of landing a full-time position. In fact, a substantial percentage of interns do convert into full-time hires. But this isn't just a matter of statistics; it's about strategic engagement, demonstrable skill, and building genuine connections. My own journey, like many others, involved periods of uncertainty followed by moments of clarity, all shaped by the internship experiences I undertook. I remember vividly the anticipation after my first major internship, wondering if all the hard work would translate into a tangible career step. It's a feeling I've heard echoed countless times by friends, colleagues, and mentees. This article aims to dissect precisely what influences this likelihood, offering practical insights and actionable advice to maximize your post-internship job prospects.
Let's be clear from the outset: landing a job offer directly from an internship isn't guaranteed, but the odds are certainly in your favor if you approach it with intention and professionalism. Think of an internship not merely as a temporary work experience, but as an extended, high-stakes job interview. You're not just learning; you're performing, demonstrating your capabilities, and proving your fit within a company culture. The data often cited, which suggests a high conversion rate for interns to full-time employees, is compelling. Companies invest considerable resources in internships, not just for the immediate support interns provide, but with the explicit goal of identifying and cultivating future talent. They want to see if those they've invested in can become valuable, long-term employees. It's a win-win scenario when it works out. But what makes it work? That's what we're here to explore.
The Crucial Role of Internships in Your Career Trajectory
Before we delve into the specifics of conversion rates and strategies, it's vital to understand *why* internships are such powerful springboards. For starters, they offer invaluable real-world experience that coursework alone cannot replicate. You're not just reading about marketing strategies; you're helping to execute them. You're not just learning about coding languages; you're building actual software components. This hands-on experience is precisely what employers are looking for. It bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, making you a far more attractive candidate than someone with only academic credentials.
Furthermore, internships provide an unparalleled opportunity for networking. You're working alongside experienced professionals, managers, and executives. These are the very people who make hiring decisions or can champion your candidacy. Building relationships with them is paramount. You get to see how different departments function, understand the company's mission and values from the inside, and identify areas where your skills and interests align with the organization's needs. This insider perspective is incredibly valuable and often informs your career goals more clearly than any career fair could.
From a company's perspective, internships are a low-risk way to assess potential hires. They can observe your work ethic, your problem-solving abilities, your adaptability, and your interpersonal skills in a real professional environment over an extended period. This is far more reliable than a one-day interview. They can see how you handle pressure, collaborate with teams, and contribute to projects. If you consistently perform well, show initiative, and demonstrate a positive attitude, you're already halfway to securing a job offer. This is where the "how likely" question starts to gain substance – it's directly tied to your performance and engagement during the internship itself.
Understanding the Statistics: What Do the Numbers Say?
While exact figures can fluctuate year to year and vary by industry, numerous studies consistently show a strong positive correlation between completing an internship and securing a full-time job. For instance, reports from organizations like the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) have historically indicated that a significant percentage of interns receive job offers upon completion of their program. Some surveys suggest this figure can range from 50% to over 70% in certain fields or for high-performing interns at competitive companies. This isn't just anecdotal; it's backed by data reflecting hiring trends.
Let's consider a hypothetical scenario. Imagine a company hires 10 interns for the summer. If their internship program is well-structured and focused on talent identification, and if 6 of those interns prove to be exceptional, the company is likely to offer them full-time positions. This means that for those 6 interns, the likelihood of getting a job after their internship was, in this case, 100%. For the others, it might have been 0% due to performance, or perhaps they were offered roles elsewhere, or simply didn't receive an offer. This highlights that the "likelihood" is not a fixed universal percentage but is heavily influenced by individual performance and company needs.
It's also worth noting that the industry plays a significant role. Fields like technology, finance, and consulting often have robust internship programs with high conversion rates because these industries are talent-intensive and internships are a primary recruitment channel. Conversely, some smaller businesses or industries with different hiring models might have lower direct conversion rates, but the experience gained can still be invaluable for securing employment elsewhere.
Factors Influencing Your Likelihood of a Job Offer
So, if the statistics are encouraging, what specific elements contribute to turning an internship into a job offer? It boils down to a combination of your proactive efforts, your demonstrable skills, and how well you align with the company's culture and future needs.
- Performance and Quality of Work: This is foundational. Are you consistently delivering high-quality work? Are you meeting deadlines? Are you attentive to detail? Employers are looking for individuals who can handle responsibilities effectively. Even if you're an intern, the expectation is that you will contribute meaningfully. Exceeding expectations, even in small ways, can make a significant difference.
- Proactiveness and Initiative: Don't wait to be told what to do. If you finish a task, ask for more work. If you see a problem, suggest a solution. Showing initiative demonstrates your engagement and your desire to learn and contribute beyond the basic requirements. This often involves seeking out opportunities to take on new challenges or learn new skills.
- Attitude and Professionalism: Your attitude is a huge factor. Are you positive, approachable, and eager to learn? Do you conduct yourself professionally in all interactions – with colleagues, supervisors, and even administrative staff? Punctuality, appropriate dress, and respectful communication are non-negotiables. A good attitude makes you a pleasure to work with and indicates you'd be a good cultural fit.
- Networking and Relationship Building: This is more than just collecting business cards. It's about building genuine connections. Engage in conversations, attend company events, ask thoughtful questions, and show interest in your colleagues' work. Building rapport with your manager and team members is crucial, as they will often be your strongest advocates.
- Demonstrating Key Skills: Beyond technical skills, employers look for transferable skills. Can you communicate effectively (both written and verbal)? Are you a good problem-solver? Can you work collaboratively in a team? Do you show adaptability and resilience? Highlight instances where you've successfully used these skills.
- Understanding Company Needs and Culture: Do you understand the company's goals and challenges? Can you articulate how your skills and aspirations align with them? Demonstrating that you've done your homework and understand the bigger picture shows maturity and a genuine interest in the organization. Fitting into the company culture is also incredibly important; if you're a good fit, you're more likely to be happy and productive long-term.
- Feedback and Adaptability: Are you receptive to feedback? Do you act on it to improve? Showing that you can take constructive criticism and adapt your approach is a sign of professional growth and maturity. This is a critical trait that employers value highly.
I recall one intern I worked with who, after completing her assigned tasks, didn't just sit around. She proactively sought out opportunities to learn from different teams, asked insightful questions during department meetings, and even volunteered for a company-wide initiative. Her enthusiasm and genuine interest were palpable, and by the end of her internship, it was clear she was a strong candidate for a full-time role, which she subsequently received.
Maximizing Your Internship Experience for a Job Offer
Knowing the factors is one thing; strategically leveraging them is another. Here’s a step-by-step approach to ensure you're not just completing an internship but actively positioning yourself for a job offer:
Phase 1: Preparation and Onboarding (Before and First Few Weeks)
- Research the Company Thoroughly: Before you even start, understand their mission, values, recent news, key products/services, and any challenges they might be facing. This knowledge will inform your questions and your approach.
- Clarify Expectations with Your Supervisor: On day one, or very early on, have a meeting with your manager. Ask:
- What are the key goals for my internship?
- What specific projects will I be working on?
- What are the deliverables and deadlines?
- How will my performance be evaluated?
- What are the best ways to communicate with you and the team?
- Understand Your Team's Role: Learn how your team contributes to the company's overall objectives. Understand your colleagues' responsibilities and how your work intersects with theirs.
- Set Personal Goals: Beyond the company's objectives, what do you want to achieve? Learn a new skill? Master a particular software? Build a specific type of network? Having personal goals will drive your initiative.
- Be Punctual and Prepared: Arrive on time, dress appropriately, and be ready to engage. This sounds basic, but consistency here sets a professional tone.
Phase 2: Active Engagement and Contribution (Mid-Internship)
- Deliver High-Quality Work Consistently: This is paramount. Pay attention to detail, double-check your work, and strive for excellence in every task, no matter how small.
- Ask Insightful Questions: Don't be afraid to ask questions, but try to make them thoughtful. Show you've done your homework and are trying to understand the 'why' behind tasks, not just the 'how.'
- Seek Feedback Regularly: Don't wait for formal reviews. Ask your supervisor and colleagues for feedback on your work and your overall performance. "Is there anything I could be doing differently or better?" is a great question.
- Act on Feedback: The feedback you receive is only valuable if you implement it. Show that you're capable of learning and adapting based on constructive criticism.
- Demonstrate Initiative and Proactiveness:
- If you finish a task early, ask for more.
- If you see a process that could be improved, politely suggest an idea.
- Volunteer for assignments or projects that might stretch your abilities.
- Network Strategically:
- Attend company social events (lunches, coffee breaks, team-building activities).
- Initiate conversations with colleagues from different departments. Ask them about their roles and career paths.
- Find a mentor within the company, even if informally.
- Be polite and respectful to everyone you encounter.
- Document Your Accomplishments: Keep a running log of your projects, contributions, skills learned, and positive feedback received. This will be invaluable for your resume, your LinkedIn profile, and for any end-of-internship review.
- Understand the Company's Business: Continue to learn about the company's strategy, market position, and challenges. How does your work contribute to the bigger picture?
Phase 3: The Home Stretch and Beyond (End of Internship)
- Request an Exit Interview or Review: Schedule a meeting with your supervisor to discuss your performance and the possibility of future employment. Use this opportunity to reiterate your interest and highlight your contributions.
- Express Your Interest in a Full-Time Role: Be direct. If you are interested in a position, say so. Frame it in terms of how you believe you can continue to contribute to the company's success.
- Follow Up Professionally: Send thank-you notes to your supervisor and key colleagues. Reiterate your appreciation for the opportunity and your interest in the company.
- Maintain Connections: Stay in touch with your network through LinkedIn or occasional emails. Congratulate them on achievements, share relevant industry news, and keep yourself on their radar.
- Continue Learning and Growing: Even if you don't get an offer from that specific company, the skills and experiences you gained are transferable. Update your resume and LinkedIn profile with your internship accomplishments.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Just as there are actions that boost your chances, there are also missteps that can significantly diminish them. Awareness of these is crucial:
- Lack of Professionalism: This covers a range of behaviors, from tardiness and poor communication to being overly casual or complaining about tasks.
- Complacency: Settling for doing the bare minimum. Not asking for more work or opportunities when tasks are completed.
- Poor Attitude: Negativity, being unwilling to learn, or exhibiting arrogance can quickly alienate colleagues and supervisors.
- Not Asking Questions: While initiative is good, asking *no* questions can lead to errors. Conversely, asking the *same* question repeatedly without attempting to remember the answer shows a lack of attentiveness.
- Not Networking: Isolating yourself and only interacting with your direct team. Missing out on the chance to build broader relationships.
- Ignoring Feedback: Not acting on or dismissing constructive criticism. This signals a lack of growth potential.
- Focusing Only on Your Own Goals: Not demonstrating how your work benefits the team or the company.
- Waiting Until the Last Minute to Express Interest: If you're keen on a job, make your interest known well before your internship concludes.
I once saw an intern who was technically brilliant but had a dismissive attitude towards administrative tasks, viewing them as beneath him. He struggled to build rapport with the support staff, and his overall demeanor made him difficult to collaborate with, despite his coding prowess. Ultimately, this impacted his chances of a full-time offer, illustrating that a holistic professional presentation matters.
Industry-Specific Considerations
The likelihood of securing a job after an internship can also be influenced by the industry you're in. Let's look at a few common examples:
Technology Sector
In tech, internships are a primary pipeline for entry-level talent. Companies like Google, Microsoft, and Meta heavily rely on their internship programs to scout and recruit engineers, product managers, and data scientists. Conversion rates are often very high, provided the intern performs well. A common pathway involves a summer internship leading to a return offer for the following summer or a full-time offer upon graduation. Key skills valued include coding proficiency, problem-solving, understanding of software development lifecycles, and collaborative spirit.
Finance Sector
Investment banks, hedge funds, and asset management firms also utilize internships extensively, particularly through their summer analyst programs. These are highly competitive and often serve as the main recruitment route for full-time analyst and associate positions. The internship period is a rigorous evaluation of analytical skills, attention to detail, work ethic under pressure, and composure. Networking and demonstrating strong quantitative abilities are critical. Many firms have a "target school" approach, but exceptional performance from any background can lead to an offer.
Consulting
Management consulting firms, like McKinsey, Bain, and BCG, view internships (often called "externships" or "associates programs" for MBA students) as a crucial hiring mechanism. These internships are designed to mirror the full-time role, immersing interns in client projects, case studies, and firm culture. Success hinges on sharp analytical and problem-solving skills, clear communication, teamwork, and an ability to quickly synthesize information and provide actionable insights. The pace is intense, and interns are evaluated on their capacity to think like a consultant.
Marketing and Communications
In marketing and communications, internships provide hands-on experience in campaign development, social media management, content creation, PR, and market research. Employers look for creativity, strong writing and communication skills, analytical thinking (especially for digital marketing), and a good understanding of branding and consumer behavior. Demonstrating an ability to manage projects, work with diverse teams, and adapt to evolving digital trends is important.
Healthcare and Pharmaceuticals
Internships in these sectors can range from research roles in labs to administrative positions in hospitals or business development in pharmaceutical companies. The emphasis is on scientific acumen, attention to detail, understanding of regulatory environments, ethical conduct, and strong organizational skills. Depending on the role, a background in science, public health, or business administration is often required. Interns who show dedication to patient care (if applicable) or scientific rigor are highly valued.
Beyond the Internship: What If You Don't Get an Offer?
It's natural to feel disappointed if you don't receive a job offer from the company where you interned. However, this is not the end of your career journey. In fact, it can be a valuable learning experience that redirects you toward a better fit or helps you refine your job search strategy.
Reflect and Analyze:
- Why might you not have received an offer? Was it performance-based? Was it due to budget constraints or a lack of open positions? Was it a cultural mismatch? Honest self-assessment is key.
- What did you learn? Identify the skills you developed, the knowledge you gained, and the aspects of the role or company that you enjoyed (or didn't enjoy). This helps you clarify your career preferences.
- Gather Feedback: If possible, ask your supervisor or HR for specific feedback on why an offer wasn't extended. Frame this request professionally, as a desire to improve for future opportunities.
Leverage Your Experience:
- Update Your Resume: Detail your responsibilities, accomplishments, and skills gained during the internship. Use quantifiable results wherever possible (e.g., "Assisted in reducing data entry time by 15% through process automation").
- Enhance Your LinkedIn Profile: Add the internship experience and highlight key achievements. Connect with colleagues you met.
- Expand Your Network: The contacts you made are still valuable. Keep them updated on your progress and inform them about your job search. They might have leads or be able to offer advice.
- Reassess Your Career Goals: Did the internship confirm your passion for a certain field, or did it reveal that your interests lie elsewhere? Use this insight to pivot your job search if necessary.
Continue the Job Search:
- Apply to other companies: Your internship experience makes you a stronger candidate for other roles.
- Consider different types of roles or companies: Perhaps a different industry, company size, or specific job function would be a better fit.
- Seek further education or certifications: If your internship highlighted a skills gap, consider courses or programs to fill it.
It's important to remember that many successful careers begin with internships that *didn't* lead to an immediate job offer. The experience itself is a significant asset. For example, I had a friend who interned at a large tech firm but didn't get a return offer due to a hiring freeze. However, the projects she worked on and the skills she honed allowed her to secure an even better role at a smaller startup within six months, where she felt more aligned with the company culture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How can I impress my supervisor during my internship to increase my chances of getting a job offer?
Impressing your supervisor is a multifaceted endeavor that goes beyond just completing assigned tasks. It's about demonstrating potential, eagerness, and a professional demeanor. Firstly, consistently deliver high-quality work. This means paying meticulous attention to detail, ensuring accuracy, and meeting deadlines. If you're unsure about something, ask clarifying questions early on rather than making assumptions that could lead to errors. Secondly, be proactive. Don't wait for tasks to be assigned. If you finish something ahead of schedule, ask your supervisor or team members if there's anything else you can help with. Proposing solutions to problems you observe, even small ones, can also showcase your initiative and problem-solving abilities. Thirdly, cultivate a positive and professional attitude. Be punctual, dress appropriately, maintain a friendly and respectful demeanor towards all colleagues, and show enthusiasm for your work. A positive attitude makes you someone people want to work with and indicates you'd likely be a good cultural fit. Fourthly, seek and act on feedback. Regularly ask your supervisor for feedback on your performance and be receptive to constructive criticism. More importantly, demonstrate that you can incorporate that feedback to improve. Finally, show genuine interest in the company and its mission. Understand what the company does, its goals, and how your work contributes to the bigger picture. This demonstrates engagement and a desire to be a long-term asset, not just a temporary helper.
What's the average conversion rate for interns to full-time employees, and does it vary by industry?
The average conversion rate for interns to full-time employees can vary significantly, but generally, it's quite favorable. While precise, universally applicable statistics are hard to pinpoint due to differing methodologies and the dynamic nature of the job market, many reputable surveys indicate that a substantial percentage of interns receive job offers. For example, studies from organizations like the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) have historically shown that between 50% and 70% of interns at surveyed companies received a job offer. In some highly competitive sectors or at companies with robust internship programs designed for talent acquisition, this figure can be even higher, sometimes reaching 80% or more for top performers. Yes, it absolutely varies by industry. Industries that are talent-intensive and heavily rely on recruiting new graduates, such as technology, finance, and management consulting, often have very high conversion rates. These companies invest heavily in internships as a primary recruitment channel. For instance, a summer internship at a major tech firm or investment bank is frequently seen as a direct pathway to a full-time offer. In contrast, industries with different hiring structures, smaller companies, or those experiencing economic volatility might have lower direct conversion rates. However, even in these cases, the experience gained from the internship is invaluable for securing employment elsewhere.
How important is networking during an internship, and what are the best ways to do it effectively?
Networking during an internship is not just important; it's often critical to securing a job offer. Internships provide a unique opportunity to build relationships with professionals who can influence hiring decisions, offer mentorship, and provide valuable insights into the industry and company culture. Effective networking goes beyond simply collecting business cards or LinkedIn connections. It involves building genuine rapport and demonstrating your professionalism and interest. Here are some effective strategies:
- Be Approachable and Friendly: Smile, make eye contact, and engage in casual conversations during breaks, lunches, or company events. Ask about your colleagues' roles, their career paths, and their experiences at the company.
- Attend Company Events: Whether it's a team lunch, a departmental gathering, or a company-wide social event, these are excellent opportunities to interact with people outside your immediate team in a more relaxed setting.
- Ask Thoughtful Questions: When you interact with professionals, ask questions that show you've done your research and are genuinely interested in learning. Avoid questions that can be easily answered by a quick online search. For example, instead of "What does the company do?", try "I read about your recent initiative in X; what was the most challenging aspect of implementing that?"
- Seek Informational Interviews: If appropriate, ask individuals in roles or departments that interest you for a brief (15-20 minute) informational interview. This is a chance to learn about their career journey and gain advice.
- Offer Assistance: If you see an opportunity to help a colleague with a task that aligns with your skills and bandwidth, offer your assistance. This demonstrates teamwork and a willingness to contribute.
- Maintain Professionalism: Always be respectful, courteous, and mindful of others' time. Avoid gossip or overly personal conversations.
- Follow Up Appropriately: After a meaningful interaction, send a brief, personalized thank-you note (email or LinkedIn message) within 24-48 hours. Reference something specific you discussed to make it memorable.
What are the key skills employers look for in interns beyond technical abilities?
While technical skills are certainly important and often the reason you're brought in for an internship, employers place a very high value on a range of "soft skills" or transferable skills that indicate your potential for long-term growth and contribution to the team and company culture. These skills are often what differentiate a good intern from an exceptional one who is likely to receive a job offer.
- Communication Skills: This encompasses both written and verbal communication. Can you articulate your thoughts clearly and concisely? Can you write professional emails and reports? Can you present ideas effectively? Good communication prevents misunderstandings and fosters collaboration.
- Problem-Solving Abilities: Employers want to see that you can identify issues, analyze them, and propose or implement solutions. This doesn't always mean solving complex strategic problems; it can be as simple as figuring out the most efficient way to organize a dataset or troubleshoot a minor technical glitch.
- Teamwork and Collaboration: Most jobs require working with others. Can you collaborate effectively with diverse personalities? Are you a good listener? Do you contribute positively to group discussions and projects? Are you willing to support your colleagues?
- Adaptability and Flexibility: The modern workplace is constantly changing. Employers look for individuals who can adapt to new technologies, processes, and unexpected challenges. Can you pivot when plans change or take on new responsibilities with a good attitude?
- Work Ethic and Professionalism: This includes punctuality, reliability, responsibility, and a commitment to doing your best work. It also covers how you present yourself – your demeanor, dress, and overall conduct.
- Initiative and Proactiveness: As mentioned before, this is huge. It shows you're not just passively waiting for instructions but are actively looking for ways to contribute and learn.
- Learning Agility: Can you quickly grasp new concepts and skills? Are you curious and eager to expand your knowledge base? Employers want individuals who are committed to continuous learning.
- Time Management and Organization: Can you prioritize tasks, manage your workload effectively, and meet deadlines? Good organizational skills are essential for productivity.
What should I do if I don't get a job offer after my internship?
Not receiving a job offer after an internship can be disappointing, but it's crucial to view it as a learning opportunity rather than a definitive failure. Many successful careers begin with internships that didn't result in immediate employment at that specific company. The first step is to remain professional and seek feedback. If possible, schedule a brief meeting with your supervisor or HR representative to understand why an offer wasn't extended. Frame this request as a desire for constructive criticism to help you grow and improve for future opportunities. This shows maturity and a commitment to your professional development. Next, thoroughly analyze your internship experience. Reflect on your performance, your interactions, and the feedback you received. What aspects of the internship went well? What could you have done differently? Identifying areas for improvement is key. Also, consider if the role or company culture was truly the right fit for you. Sometimes, not getting an offer is a sign that you might be better suited elsewhere, and discovering this is a valuable outcome. After this reflection, focus on leveraging your internship experience. Update your resume and LinkedIn profile with the skills you gained, the projects you worked on, and any accomplishments you achieved. Quantify your achievements whenever possible. For example, if you contributed to a project that saved time or resources, mention the percentage or estimated value. Expand your professional network. The contacts you made during your internship are still valuable. Stay connected with them on LinkedIn and keep them informed about your career progress. They might offer leads, advice, or even future opportunities. Finally, continue your job search with renewed focus. Use the insights gained from your internship and feedback to refine your approach. You're now a stronger candidate with real-world experience. Look for roles that align with your clarified interests and skills. You might also consider further education, certifications, or volunteer work to bolster your qualifications if the internship highlighted specific skill gaps.
The Long-Term Value of Internship Experience
Even if an internship doesn't immediately translate into a full-time job offer at that specific organization, the experience itself holds immense long-term value. The skills you develop—technical proficiencies, problem-solving capabilities, communication finesse, and teamwork—are transferable across industries and roles. You gain a deeper understanding of professional environments, learn to navigate workplace dynamics, and build a foundational network. This practical exposure significantly enhances your resume and makes you a more competitive candidate for other positions.
Moreover, an internship provides crucial self-discovery. It helps you clarify what you enjoy doing, what you're good at, and what kind of work environment suits you best. This clarity is invaluable in making informed career decisions down the line, potentially saving you from pursuing paths that wouldn't be a good fit. The ability to articulate your internship experiences and the lessons learned during job interviews is a testament to your initiative and your capacity for real-world contribution.
The professional network you build during an internship can also pay dividends years later. Colleagues and supervisors from that period may become valuable contacts for future job leads, mentorship, or professional advice. The credibility gained from having successfully completed an internship at a reputable organization also lends weight to your candidacy in future job applications. Essentially, every internship is a stepping stone, providing essential bricks for building a robust and fulfilling career, whether it leads directly to a job or indirectly through acquired skills and connections.
Conclusion: Turning Internship Potential into Career Reality
So, to circle back to our initial question: How likely are you to get a job after an internship? The probability is significantly enhanced by your actions and attitude during the internship itself. It's not a passive waiting game; it's an active demonstration of your worth. By consistently delivering quality work, exhibiting professionalism, proactively seeking opportunities, and building meaningful relationships, you transform your internship from a temporary learning experience into a powerful launchpad for your career. The data supports this, and countless individual success stories attest to it. Embrace your internship as an extended interview, a chance to prove your capabilities, and an opportunity to make a lasting positive impression. The investment you make in your internship experience will undoubtedly yield substantial returns in your journey to securing a fulfilling post-internship career.