The Transformative Impact of a Purposeful Internship

At Adilstone Group, we love our interns. We half jokingly say that we’re going to get a company merch that says “We Love Interns” because it is true. Since 2019, the internship program at Adilstone Group has highly impacted this organization for the better. Adilstone prides itself on creating experiences that allow our interns to do more than just get the proverbial “virtual coffee” but instead make lasting contributions and connections. Much of the direction Adilstone has gone in today was directly influenced by the work of an intern and we intend to continue this pattern for years to come. Here's what Adilstone Group President Brandon Christensen had to say about how interns have impacted the company: "Immensely! This is not an over statement, I don’t know how far as a company we would be today without our Intern Program. They have worked on significant things that have impacted our abilities and reach around the globe and helped to advance our mission.”

"I don’t know how far as a company we would be today without our Intern Program." -Brandon Christensen, President of Adilstone

Internships are often regarded as stepping stones into the professional world, offering valuable insights, practical experience, and a glimpse into real-world application of academic knowledge. However, not all internships are created equal. A great internship can be a game-changer, leaving a lasting impact that extends far beyond the confines of its duration. 

The internship program at Adilstone takes an average of two interns per term with a focus either in business or marketing. Most of our interns are virtual, but we’ve had in-person internships as well as our first international internship within our Vietnam office this year. In this article, we'll delve into the transformative impact of a purposeful internship and how it can shape an individual's career trajectory.

Skill Development and Hands-On Learning
One of the most immediate impacts of a great internship is the opportunity for skill development through hands-on learning. Unlike theoretical classroom settings, internships provide a platform to apply theoretical knowledge in practical scenarios. Whether it's business development, marketing, or project management, interns are often entrusted with tasks that challenge them to acquire new skills and enhance existing ones. This practical experience not only boosts confidence but also equips interns with a skill set that sets them apart in the competitive job market.

“I had an amazing experience as an intern. I built a lot of great relationships, worked on good and challenging projects, and grew a lot professionally and personally. A highlight for me was seeing how our social media grew in response to certain campaigns and strategies and seeing the real-life impact that had outside of a classroom or a hypothetical situation.” -Alyssa Frager, Summer 2021 Marketing Intern

Networking and Professional Relationships
Internships are more than just an opportunity to complete tasks; they're a chance to connect with professionals in the field. Engaging with colleagues, mentors, and supervisors allows interns to establish valuable relationships that can serve as a foundation for future collaborations and mentorship. The connections made during an internship can open doors to job opportunities, references, and even long-lasting friendships.

Industry Insights and Real-World Application
A great internship offers a window into the inner workings of an industry, allowing interns to gain a deeper understanding of how their chosen field operates. From understanding market trends to observing decision-making processes, interns are exposed to the practical challenges and complexities that textbooks might not cover. This insight into real-world application is invaluable in shaping an individual's career aspirations and goals.

Resume Enhancement and Competitive Edge
Having a great internship on one's resume can be a significant advantage. It not only demonstrates a candidate's commitment to gaining practical experience but also showcases their ability to adapt and contribute effectively in a professional setting. When potential employers see that an individual has successfully navigated a demanding internship, they're more likely to consider them as a strong candidate for a full-time position.

Personal Growth and Confidence Boost
An impactful internship often pushes individuals outside their comfort zones. Tackling new challenges, taking on responsibilities, and adapting to a professional environment contribute to personal growth and the development of soft skills like communication, time management, and problem-solving. As interns overcome obstacles, their self-confidence and belief in their abilities naturally increase.

“I would recommend being open to trying new things and being willing to go outside your comfort zone. Even if you end up not liking something, it's worth it to find out what you enjoy and what you don't. You won't know until you try, and you'll gain very valuable experience either way.” -Shelby Mitchell, Summer 2023 Marketing Intern

Exploration and Clarification of Career Goals
For many, internships serve as a testing ground for their career aspirations. A great internship can either affirm their chosen path or provide clarity that prompts them to reevaluate their goals. Exposure to different aspects of an industry can help interns pinpoint their true passions and areas of interest, guiding them towards a more fulfilling and purpose-driven career.

“This internship showed me how much I enjoy working in a role that involves helping others. I was not sure what part of management I wanted to go into, but after this role I knew that it needed to involve helping others. Now that I am working as an HR coordinator, I can see how my time at Adilstone shaped the job I was looking for after college.” -Maddie Metcalf, Summer 2022 Business Intern

“Working autonomously comes with its pros and cons, but also not knowing much and having to figure a lot out on my own has been nice as it has taught me how to think critically and discern situations for myself.” -Benjamin Rodgers, Summer 2023 Business Intern

Lasting Impression and Future Opportunities
A standout internship doesn't just end with the last day of work. Interns who make a positive impact during their internships often leave a lasting impression on their supervisors and colleagues. This can lead to recommendations, referrals, and even potential job offers down the line. A great internship, in essence, can be the start of a lifelong professional journey.

“My advice is that the internship is what you make of it. And that really is how most jobs and internships are. You get out of the job what you put into it. So, if you want your work to be meaningful and impactful, then you need to put in the effort and time to make your work at that company meaningful and impactful.” -Brian Shupp, Fall 2022 Marketing Intern

Brandon had this to say to anyone looking to be successful in an internship: “A posture of learning, humility and servanthood. How can I take in everything that I am getting exposed to with a humble mindset and an ability to serve the people I am working with.”

The impact of a purposeful internship reaches far beyond the immediate period of engagement. It shapes a person's professional identity, provides a springboard for career growth, and instills a sense of accomplishment and purpose. Internships, when approached with enthusiasm and dedication, have the potential to catalyze transformations that resonate throughout an individual's professional life.