Internships provide valuable opportunity for high school and college students to try a career field, but limited availability of quality work, age restrictions, inability to earn school credit, lack of social connections, and no or limited pay can all curb the ability and/or inclination of students to pursue internships. During the college years, work-study opportunities are often poorly aligned with actual career interests and few higher education institutions have adopted a co-op model. Apprenticeships face similar hurdles. From the employer perspective, there may be little financial incentive to make an initial investment in apprenticeships and the administration can be burdensome. Meanwhile, for the individual there is a lack of appreciation for and understanding of the value of apprenticeships as a valid pathway to a rewarding, well-paying career.
American Student Assistance supports programs and policies that will expand hands-on and experiential learning for all students.
