What an Intern Is and What They Do

Everyone · Explainer · Updated October 1, 2026 · LearnLife Editorial

What Is an Intern in Simple Terms?

An intern is someone who temporarily joins a company or organization, usually to learn about a specific career or industry. Interns are often students, recent graduates, or career changers who want to gain work experience and build skills in a real-world setting. Unlike full-time employees, interns usually work for a limited time—often during summer breaks or part-time alongside studies—and their main goal is to learn, not necessarily to earn a full salary. Some internships are paid, while others are unpaid but offer academic credit or valuable professional connections.

Internships vary widely by industry and company size. For example, an intern at a hospital might assist nurses or administrative staff, while an intern at a tech startup could help with coding or product testing. Regardless of the field, internships focus on learning practical skills, understanding workplace culture, and experiencing daily job tasks. Interns might attend meetings, complete assigned projects, or shadow experienced employees to better understand the profession.

Understanding what an intern is helps set clear expectations about the role: it’s a position designed primarily for education and career growth, not just a temporary job.

How Does an Internship Work? A Clear Example

Consider a hypothetical example of a college student named Alex, interested in marketing. Alex finds a summer internship at a local advertising agency. The internship lasts 10 weeks, with a commitment of 15 hours per week. Alex’s duties include researching market trends, helping design social media campaigns, and assisting with client presentations. Alex’s supervisor meets weekly to provide guidance and feedback.

During the internship, Alex learns to use marketing software, gains experience in communicating ideas effectively, and understands how an agency manages multiple projects. If this internship is paid, Alex earns a modest stipend—say $350 per week—which helps cover expenses. If unpaid, Alex gains valuable skills and a professional reference, which can be just as beneficial for future job applications.

This example illustrates how internships blend practical work with learning. The structured schedule, clear tasks, and mentorship ensure the intern gains relevant experience. After the internship, Alex can add this role to a resume, explaining how the skills developed relate to marketing goals.

Why Do Internships Matter to You?

Internships matter because they provide firsthand experience that textbooks or lectures cannot offer. For anyone entering the workforce or changing careers, internships allow you to explore different fields before committing fully. This reduces the risk of choosing a career that might not feel right once you start working.

From a practical standpoint, internships help build skills that employers look for, such as teamwork, communication, time management, and technical abilities specific to a job. For example, if you complete an internship in software development, you'll likely become familiar with coding languages, project workflows, and debugging techniques — all highly valuable in job interviews.

Beyond skills, internships help you build a professional network. Meeting supervisors, colleagues, and clients opens doors to job leads, mentorship, and career advice. Even if an internship doesn’t lead to a job offer at that company, the connections you make may help in future job searches.

For parents and educators, internships offer young people a safe environment to build maturity, responsibility, and confidence. For adults learning new skills or switching careers, internships can fill gaps in experience and demonstrate commitment to employers.

What Is the Difference Between an Intern and Similar Terms?

People often confuse interns with other temporary or training roles, but understanding the differences clarifies expectations.

• Intern vs. Internee: Both terms refer to someone gaining practical experience, but "intern" is the preferred and more widely accepted term in the U.S. "Internee" is uncommon and can sound outdated or unclear.

• Intern vs. Interim: An interim worker temporarily fills a regular employee’s role—often in management—until a permanent employee is hired. Unlike interns, interims are expected to perform full job duties, not learn or train.

• Intern vs. Apprentice: Apprenticeships focus on trades or skilled crafts (like electricians or carpenters). Apprentices receive long-term training, often with formal certification, and usually work under a master tradesperson. Internships are shorter and more exploratory.

• Intern vs. Volunteer: Volunteers work without pay to support nonprofits or community organizations. While volunteers contribute service, they may not receive structured career training, mentorship, or professional development like interns do.

Knowing these distinctions helps you choose the right opportunity. For example, if your goal is to learn a trade, an apprenticeship might be better. If you want to explore a career broadly, an internship fits better.

How to Find and Apply for an Internship

Finding and applying for an internship involves several practical steps:

1. Identify Your Goals: Decide what industries or roles interest you. For instance, if you want to work in environmental science, look for internships at research labs, nonprofits, or government agencies.

1. Search for Opportunities: Use online job boards, company websites, college career centers, or networking events. You can also directly contact organizations to ask about internships.

1. Prepare Your Application Materials: Update your resume to highlight relevant coursework, projects, or volunteer experience. Write a tailored cover letter explaining why you want the internship and what you hope to contribute.

1. Apply Thoughtfully: Follow each opportunity’s instructions carefully. Submit your resume and cover letter by the deadline, and keep track of applications.

1. Prepare for Interviews: Practice common interview questions, such as “Why do you want this internship?” or “Tell me about a time you worked in a team.” Be ready to explain your skills and enthusiasm clearly.

1. Follow Up: After interviews, send a polite thank-you email to express appreciation and reinforce your interest.

For students, many schools offer internship programs with credit options. Check with advisors about eligibility and application processes. For unpaid internships, familiarize yourself with your rights through resources like the U.S. Department of Labor.

What Should You Expect During an Internship?

Internships typically involve a blend of training, hands-on work, and professional interaction. Here’s what you can expect:

• Orientation: Most internships start with an orientation session explaining company policies, workplace safety, and your role’s expectations.

• Supervised Tasks: Early tasks may be simple, such as data entry or research. As you gain confidence, supervisors may assign more challenging projects.

• Mentorship and Feedback: You will usually have a supervisor or mentor who provides guidance, answers questions, and gives feedback on your work. Regular check-ins help keep progress on track.

• Networking Opportunities: Interns often attend meetings, team lunches, or company events. Participating actively helps build relationships beyond daily tasks.

• Professional Conduct: Treat your internship like a job by arriving on time, dressing appropriately, communicating clearly, and respecting confidentiality.

• Evaluation: Some internships conclude with a performance review or require a final presentation summarizing what you learned.

For example, if you intern at a nonprofit, you might start by organizing event materials, then move on to helping draft grant proposals as you learn. Asking questions and showing initiative can lead to more meaningful assignments.

What Comes After an Internship?

Completing an internship opens new doors, but what you do afterward is equally important:

• Update Your Resume and Online Profiles: Clearly describe your internship role, responsibilities, and skills gained. For example, list specific projects you completed or software you used.

• Request References: Ask your supervisor or mentor for recommendation letters or to serve as a professional reference for future jobs.

• Reflect on Your Experience: Consider what you liked or didn’t like about the role. Did it confirm your career interest or suggest a different path?

• Stay Connected: Maintain contact with people you met during the internship by sending occasional updates or joining professional groups.

• Prepare for Job Searches: Use your internship experience to answer interview questions confidently, emphasizing how it prepared you for the workforce.

• Consider Further Steps: Depending on your goals, look for additional internships, part-time jobs, or educational programs to build on your skills.

For example, if your internship helped you discover a passion for digital marketing, you might pursue certifications in social media advertising or take advanced classes.

How Do Internship Laws Affect You?

Internship laws in the U.S. focus on ensuring fair treatment, especially for unpaid internships. The Department of Labor uses a set of criteria to determine if an unpaid internship is legal. These criteria emphasize that the internship should provide educational benefits, not replace paid employees, and that the intern should not expect a job at the end.

If you are a paid intern, federal and state wage laws apply. Your employer must pay at least minimum wage and follow rules about work hours and breaks. Interns under 18 have additional protections limiting the type of work they can do and hours they can work.

If you believe your internship violates labor laws—such as performing work without learning or not being paid when entitled—contact labor authorities or seek legal advice. Always know your rights before accepting an internship, especially if unpaid.

Being informed helps you avoid exploitation and ensures your internship is a valuable learning experience.

For further reading, see Internship Explained: What It Is and How It Works and Examples of Intern Roles and Responsibilities.

Frequently asked questions

Can internships be done remotely or online?

Yes, many companies offer remote internships where you work from home. Remote internships require good communication skills and self-motivation since you won’t be physically present but still gain valuable experience.

Are internships always unpaid?

No. Some internships are paid, particularly in competitive industries or when the intern performs substantial work. Unpaid internships must meet legal standards to ensure they provide educational benefits.

How long do internships usually last?

Internships often last from six weeks to several months, commonly aligning with school semesters or summer breaks. Some internships can be part-time during the school year or full-time during breaks.

Do internships guarantee a job offer?

No. While some companies hire successful interns into full-time roles, many internships do not guarantee employment afterward. However, they improve your chances by building skills and connections.

What skills do interns typically gain?

Interns develop professional communication, teamwork, time management, problem-solving, and technical skills related to their field, such as coding, writing, or customer service.

Can high school students be interns?

Yes, many high schoolers can find internships, though there may be age limits and work hour restrictions. Check local laws and school programs that support youth internships.