The answer is simple. Internships.

Internships are your key to gaining on the job experience while you study, helping you get a head start on your career before you even leave university.

Internships are designed to develop practical knowledge, skills and experience within a chosen career area of interest allowing you to gain relevant work experience that complements the knowledge acquired through your degree.

This valuable experience on your professional résumé will help you stand from the crowd when applying for a graduate program or employment opportunity.

ECU Senior Career Adviser, Gina Susca, strongly encourages all students to explore internship, vacation program and work experience opportunities.

“Employers valueinternship experience because they provide students with the skills and experience that they cannot acquire in a school environment. An internship lets you try out career options and build a professional network”, she said.

It’s also a great way to find out about a specific industry or company and can help you secure a job in the future.

David Kempen, Campus Recruitment Consultant for PwC and ECU graduate, knows first-hand the benefits of undertaking practical work experience while you study. David completed an internship at PwC through ECU’s Work Integrated Learning program, and just six months later, secured his current role.

Many internships and vacation programs are available as early as your first year, so you don’t have to wait until your final year.

Check out the range of opportunities currently available in this workgroup and get cracking on your career development now!