Did you know that more than 70% of internships lead to full-time job offers? An internship can be an incredibly valuable stepping stone in your career. But like every other aspect of work, internships were heavily affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. As we enter the post-COVID age, one of the lasting legacies of the pandemic is the rise of remote work in general, including remote internships. Here is what you should know.
About Remote Internships
As the name suggests, remote internships take place online rather than in an office setting. During the pandemic, the total number of available internships dropped by approximately 39%. But the percentage of internships that offered or required remote work increased, settling at about 20% of all internships by March 2021.
Like full-time and part-time remote work, not all remote internships are the same. Some internships are fully remote, with no expectations of your entering the office at all. Others are hybrid, requiring you to work onsite one or more days per week. And still others leave the choice up to you: go into the office if and when you want, and work remotely when that’s best for you. It’s important to understand exactly what the expectations are before you accept the job.
Pros and Cons of a Remote Internship
One of the biggest advantages of a remote internship is the cost savings. Internships may be unpaid or provide only a small stipend. Yet many internships are located in cities with a high cost of living. A fully remote internship lets you live wherever you like, including at home with your parents, while taking advantage of everything the internship has to offer.
Another advantage is flexibility. Whether the internship is fully remote or hybrid, you will likely have more control over your own time than you would with a traditional onsite internship. If you are concurrently taking classes or fulfilling family obligations, you may find it easier to strike a work-life balance with a remote internship.
But remote internships aren’t right for everyone. Many people find it harder to network in a virtual setting. You may have trouble settling into the role. If you’re an outgoing person, you might find remote work lonely and isolating. And if you’re in a hands-on field, remote internships likely won’t be available at all.
Ultimately, there is no right answer as to whether to accept a remote internship. You’ll need to consider your own personality and work style, as well as what you hope to gain from the internship. But with remote work continuing to rise in popularity, it’s not a bad idea to try a remote internship to find out whether it’s right for you.
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