This is that time of the year when most students from different disciplines have started their hunt — looking for companies that would let them do their internship. Though this is no easy ride, students look forward to intern, as they love to “work”. “It’s a good break from studies,” jokes Preetham K, a BMM (business management) student. “You feel independent, and get to experience what might be in store in future and that is one exciting factor,” he adds.

For a few, finding the right place to work can be a concern. “It took me at least two months to find a place to do my internship last year,” says Payal Yogesh, who is currently in her fourth semester of Computer Engineering. “This time, I’m trying for the big companies, as the exposure is very important. But my seniors have warned me that either I will be burdened with too much work or they will hardly assign any work. But I’ve already started looking and I’ve applied at different places. Interning at a good place makes it easier to get ‘that’ much-desired-job,” she adds.

In some circumstances, the university itself plays an important role. “I interned in France as I was sent from my college for an exchange programme there,” says Pankaja L., who has completed her Hotel Management course from Christ College. “This way, I was exposed to a whole new world and the experience was highly enlightening. Students now are sent to Disney World and Netherlands too from our college. I think it really helps if the college is equally supportive,” she adds. Preetham K. backs the idea,“There are a few projects that our lecturers are a part of. And sometimes, if we do ask, we are allowed to be a part of them. We’ve all benefited from it as we get to ‘feel’ the market, and there is always someone constantly guiding us too.”

Those pursuing architecture are mostly the ones constantly looking for a place to intern as they have to compulsorily complete the internship to pass. “I’m currently interning at a firm. I got in here through a friend and sometimes referral is the best way to get one,” says Divith S., who is in the fourth year. He adds, “Interning makes it easier for those who want to study abroad, especially to complete their Masters programme. It’s a complete bonus on the resume.”