The Pros And Cons Of Joining A Government Internship Program
If you’re on the lookout for an internship opportunity, you have different kinds to choose from. You can apply for internships in private companies, independent organizations, and even in our own government agencies!
But let’s be real: applying for government internships can be a daunting task. When you’re accepted as an intern, spoiler alert: you will face even greater challenges. No matter what, you will gain valuable learning experience from this kind of internship that will help boost your career in the future.
Are you planning to apply for a government internship soon? Here are the pros and cons that you should consider before joining a government internship program!
Pro: Government internships are open all year round.
Unlike private companies who have designated period to accept interns, government offices often accept interns all year round. This means you don’t have to wait for months to become one. You have the freedom to start your internship during your vacation or while your classes are going on. It’s up to you!
Con: Expect a heavy workload.
Unfortunately, this set-up could be tiring for a student like you. You might experience burnout if you attend classes and pursue your internship at the same time. Knowing that government work entails service and long working hours, you should have to think about it twice. On the flip side, if you’re confident that you can manage your time and responsibilities effectively, then off you go with that internship!
Pro: Government internships allow you to work with brilliant people, including our high-ranking government officials.
It’s an honor to work with our public officials and their staff in the name of public service. During your internship, you will meet brilliant personalities that you can talk about politics, economics, or even your career! It’s even possible that you’ll change your mind about your course or career and be inspired to become a government employee in the future.
Con: You will feel extreme pressure and responsibility.
However, due to the need for an efficient and reliable system, you are also expected to work at the same pace just like everyone else. You have to submit reports, attend meetings, do field work—it might feel like your head is going to burst from multitasking!
As a result, you might put unnecessary pressure on yourself in dealing with these responsibilities. The truth: it’s normal to feel this way. Everyone feels uneasy during demanding situations. Just remember to be gentle with yourself. Have fun! Make mistakes and learn from them.
Pro: Government internships offer a hands-on learning experience.
If you’re looking for a fulfilling internship, a government internship program is the way to go! This kind of internship will give you more than a glimpse of the real-work environment with its extensive activities that you will be working on. For example, you may get to assist senior citizens in key programs such as Social Pension and supplementary feeding programs.
Con: Government internships often have limited slots.
Most of the time though, the government prioritize out-of-school-youth for their internship programs, leaving a few slots for students like you. This is the government’s way of extending financial assistance for the out-of-school-youth so they can attend school later on. One way or another, the internship will be an enriching encounter!
Pro and Con: Government internships expose you to the realities of life.
During your internship, you will meet people from all walks of life. You will encounter complaints and political issues that will stretch out your understanding of the government. There will be times that you might be confused when you step into an office with unattractive interiors and broken electric fans! You will conduct outreach programs in marginalized areas and witness the life of the locals.
One thing’s for sure, government internships will be an eye-opening experience for you and your co-interns. Hopefully, this internship opportunity will unleash your inner leader and inspire you to continue serving the people!
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