By Elizabeth Malakia.

When I chose to study Communications, I didn’t have a clear vision of what I wanted to become. I simply wanted to finish the course and maybe take up another one later. But everything changed when I secured an internship. That experience taught me more than any textbook ever could and confirmed that Communications was the right path for me.

For many students, internships are just another academic requirement a step to complete in order to graduate. But during my time as an intern, I discovered they offer much more than just credits or marks. Internships give you a real-world taste of the career you’re aiming for. They show you whether you’re truly suited for it and prepare you for the challenges ahead.

Before I even got the internship, I went through the frustrating process that most students know all too well sending out application after application, sometimes without hearing anything back. I waited, hoping for that one email saying I have been selected. I was even shortlisted a few times, only to find out I didn’t make the final cut. It was discouraging. But in hindsight, that process taught me resilience and gave me a preview of the realities of job hunting. Getting an internship isn’t always easy, but that struggle is part of the learning.

Universities often focus heavily on theory, but internships bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world experience. They allow you to put your knowledge to the test, handle tasks that matter, and solve actual problems. This hands-on exposure not only builds your skills but also gives you a clearer understanding of what your future job could look like. Working with professionals gives you insight that no lecture can provide. You’re not just observing you’re participating, learning from people who have mastered the craft and are willing to mentor you. That kind of guidance helps you grow in confidence and capability.

Internships also help build your resume. In a competitive job market, employers want more than qualifications, they want proof that you can handle the work. Listing only coursework won’t make you stand out, but internship experience shows initiative and adaptability. Even just applying for internships, preparing CVs, sitting through interviews, and facing rejections prepare you for the real-world job hunt.

They’re also a great way to explore your interests. You might start off doing PR work and discover you enjoy marketing or event planning more. Being exposed to various departments from social media to budgeting can help you discover strengths and passions you didn’t know you had.

And while it’s true that some internships come with allowances, the real value isn’t in the money. Internships are not really about how much you’re paid, they’re about how much you learn, who you meet, and how well you prepare for your future. In the end, my internship didn’t just meet a course requirement, it helped me find direction, build experience, and prepare for life after university. If you’re a student wondering whether internships are worth it, trust me they are. And even if the process is tough, the reward is more than worth it.