Douglas Olsen
Undertaking an internship during a PhD is a complex decision that depends on several factors. Firstly, international students should be aware of visa and CPT policy restrictions that may limit their ability to work outside of academia. For domestic students, university policies and funding sources may impose constraints, and it is essential to understand these before considering an internship. The timing of the internship is another crucial aspect, as it can impact a PhD student's research progress and the quality of the internship experience. While internships can enhance professional development and networking opportunities, they may also divert attention from research. Therefore, it is advisable to seek counsel from mentors or advisors and carefully evaluate the relevance of the internship to one's PhD goals and long-term career aspirations.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Opportunity to gain clarity on career goals | Internships can help you gain clarity on your career goals and decide whether you want to stay in academia or not. |
| Networking | Internships provide valuable networking opportunities, which can be beneficial for your professional development. |
| Timing | It is recommended to do an internship in the middle of your PhD, around the third year, to ensure you have enough experience and that it aligns with your long-term development. |
| Workload | An internship can be time-consuming and may delay your graduation if you are already behind. It is important to prioritize your research and degree first. |
| Visa restrictions | International students should be aware of visa restrictions regarding working hours and the duration of their internship. |
| Job opportunities | Internships can provide a foot in the door at companies, and they often lead to full-time job offers. |
| Learning opportunity | Internships offer a valuable learning opportunity, allowing you to develop new skills and gain experience in a different environment. |
| Career change | If you are considering a career change outside of your PhD area of study, internships can provide relevant experience and help you acquire new skills. |
| Job search | Internships can give you a head start on the job hunt and make the transition to a non-academic job smoother. |
| Income | The pay from internships usually exceeds your stipend and can provide a good source of income during your studies. |
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What You'll Learn
- The benefits of interning outside of academia as a PhD student
- How to get an internship outside of academia as a PhD student?
- The drawbacks of interning outside academia as a PhD student
- The best time to take on an internship outside of academia as a PhD student
- How to balance your PhD studies with an internship outside of academia?
The benefits of interning outside of academia as a PhD student
Undertaking an internship outside of academia during a PhD programme can bring numerous benefits and opportunities for growth. Firstly, it provides an opportunity to gain practical knowledge and hands-on experience in a professional environment, allowing PhD students to apply their academic learning in a real-world context. This can include developing essential research skills such as writing for publication, submitting articles to journals, and engaging in webinars, which can enhance their employability and make them more attractive candidates for future job applications.
Secondly, internships offer a valuable chance to build and expand one's professional network, connecting with individuals in the industry and forming new connections. This networking aspect can be especially beneficial for PhD students who primarily interact with academics and wish to diversify their contacts. Additionally, internships allow students to ''test drive' potential career paths, providing insight into different roles and organisations, and helping them make more informed decisions about their future endeavours.
Another advantage of interning outside of academia is the potential for personal growth and renewed motivation. The experience can offer a change of focus and a break from the routine of PhD research, providing new perspectives and energy to tackle thesis work. It can also help develop essential skills such as concise communication, which can boost confidence when presenting research and interacting with others in a professional setting.
While it is important to consider the potential impact on research time, undertaking an internship during a PhD can be a valuable learning curve and a worthwhile investment in one's personal and professional development. It can provide a competitive edge in the job market and open doors to opportunities that may not have otherwise been available, making it a beneficial consideration for PhD students exploring options beyond academia.
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How to get an internship outside of academia as a PhD student
Undertaking an internship outside of academia as a PhD student can be a great way to gain clarity on your career goals, develop your professional network, and enhance your research and professional development. Here are some steps and considerations to help you secure an internship outside of academia during your PhD:
Understand your program's policies and restrictions:
Check with your program coordinator about any restrictions or requirements related to internships or external work. Some PhD programs may not allow students to hold internships during the school year, and you may need to plan for a summer internship. Additionally, if your tuition and health insurance are tied to your salary as a teaching assistant (TA), quitting that position to take on an internship could impact your finances.
Assess your time and workload:
Consider your current workload and time commitments. Taking on an internship should not significantly delay your graduation or distract you from your PhD work. Ensure that you can manage your time effectively and remain disciplined to complete both your PhD and internship responsibilities.
Identify your career goals:
Clarify your career aspirations and how an internship fits into your plans. If you aspire to work in a field different from your PhD area of study, an internship can provide valuable experience and help you acquire relevant skills. It can also be a low-risk way to explore different career paths and gain clarity on your interests.
Explore internship opportunities:
- Network within your program: Talk to students or alumni who have pursued non-academic positions during their PhD. They may provide insights into their industry experiences and connections.
- Leverage your advisor's network: If your PhD advisor engages in industry consulting, they might connect you with industry-based researchers who can guide you toward potential internships.
- Reach out to companies directly: Identify companies that interest you and email them directly to express your interest in interning with them. This proactive approach can be less competitive than applying to advertised positions.
- Look for formal internship programs: Some companies offer formal internship programs or advertise positions for interns alongside regular employees. Keep an eye out for such opportunities and follow any application procedures.
Be mindful of legal considerations:
If you are an international student, be sure to review the relevant laws and your school's CPT policy. Understand your visa status and any restrictions it may impose on your ability to work or intern.
Remember, while an internship outside of academia can offer numerous benefits, it is not a requirement for full-time employment. Carefully consider your circumstances, goals, and the potential impact on your PhD progress before deciding to pursue an internship.
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The drawbacks of interning outside academia as a PhD student
While interning outside academia as a PhD student has its benefits, there are also several drawbacks to consider. Here are some of the potential disadvantages:
- Time commitment: Taking on an internship during a PhD can be a significant time commitment, potentially impacting the time available for research and thesis completion. This is especially true for full-time internships or those that overlap with the academic year. It is important to carefully consider the timing of an internship to ensure it does not negatively affect a student's academic progress.
- Financial considerations: For PhD students who rely on teaching assistantships or other university positions for funding, taking on an external internship may result in a loss of income. In some cases, the financial gains from an internship may not outweigh the costs associated with tuition and health insurance, especially if the internship is part-time or short-term.
- Program restrictions: Some PhD programs have restrictions on external work or internships during the academic year. International students, in particular, may face limitations due to visa and CPT policy restrictions. It is important for students to carefully review their program's policies before pursuing external internships.
- Delay in graduation: Taking on an internship can potentially delay a student's graduation timeline, especially if they are already behind in their studies. Students need to carefully consider their priorities and ensure they can balance the demands of both their PhD and internship commitments.
- Ethical concerns: In some cases, internships may involve unpaid or underpaid work, which can raise ethical concerns. While internships are meant to provide valuable experience and skills, it is important for students to ensure they are not being exploited and that the internship offers fair compensation and meaningful opportunities for growth.
While interning outside academia can provide valuable experience and networking opportunities, it is important for PhD students to carefully weigh the potential drawbacks and ensure they are making a well-informed decision that aligns with their academic and career goals.
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The best time to take on an internship outside of academia as a PhD student
Undertaking an internship outside of academia as a PhD student can be a great way to gain experience and build a professional network. However, it can be challenging to balance the demands of a PhD program with the commitments of an internship. So, when is the best time to take on an internship outside of academia as a PhD student?
Well, it depends on several factors, including the student's country, funding, discipline, and career goals. Ideally, an internship should be scheduled late enough in the student's PhD journey that they have enough experience to be of interest to potential sponsors. However, it should also be early enough to have a positive effect on their long-term development. For instance, a PhD student in their first or second year can seek counsel from mentors or advisors regarding internships.
In a US graduate program, this typically translates to around the third year of a five-to-six-year PhD program. In a European-style system, where coursework is completed before the PhD starts, an internship can be undertaken earlier, perhaps from the middle of the second year. Summer internships are common, as they do not interfere with the academic year. However, some PhD programs may not allow students to work during the academic year.
It is also important to consider the student's visa status and the laws governing their working hours. International students, in particular, may have restrictions on the number of hours they can work outside their teaching or research assistant requirements. Additionally, students should be aware of the potential impact on their graduation timeline and funding. An internship may delay graduation and, in some cases, affect graduate funding or standing, especially if income is received from a for-profit company.
Overall, undertaking an internship outside of academia as a PhD student can be a valuable experience, enhancing professional development and networking opportunities. However, careful consideration of the timing and potential implications is essential to ensure a positive outcome.
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How to balance your PhD studies with an internship outside of academia
Undertaking an internship outside of academia during a PhD programme can be a great way to gain experience and build a professional network. However, balancing a PhD with an internship is no easy feat. Here are some tips on how to manage both:
Understand the Requirements and Expectations
Before embarking on an internship, it is crucial to be aware of the expectations and requirements of both your PhD programme and the internship position. Familiarize yourself with the time commitment, workload, and any specific obligations associated with each. Understand that an internship will require additional time and work on top of your PhD responsibilities. Be mindful of your graduation timeline and assess whether taking on an internship will delay your graduation milestones.
Communicate with Supervisors
Effective communication with your PhD thesis adviser and internship supervisor is essential. Discuss your goals, expectations, and how you plan to work together. Clarify the skills you aim to develop, the projects you will undertake, and the frequency of guidance and feedback. Understanding your supervisor's communication style and adapting to it will help you make the most of their guidance.
Prioritize and Manage Your Time
Balancing a PhD with an internship demands excellent time management skills. Prioritize your obligations and create a schedule that allows you to dedicate sufficient time to both pursuits. Be disciplined and organized to ensure you are fulfilling your responsibilities in both roles.
Stay Motivated and Adaptable
Juggling a PhD and an internship can be demanding, so it is essential to stay motivated and adaptable. Remind yourself of the benefits of this experience, such as gaining new skills, exploring career paths, and expanding your network. Be prepared to navigate the challenges of adapting to a new work environment while maintaining your focus on your PhD studies.
Seek Support and Maintain Wellness
Seek support from your supervisors, colleagues, and peers to help you navigate any challenges you may encounter. Remember to prioritize self-care and maintain a healthy work-life balance to avoid burnout. Taking care of your well-being will help you stay energized and engaged in both your PhD studies and internship responsibilities.
By following these strategies, you can successfully balance your PhD studies with an internship outside of academia, allowing you to gain valuable experience and enhance your professional development.
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Frequently asked questions
Internships provide exposure to professional roles in business, government and/or nonprofit sectors. They can help you develop specific skills and gain direct experience that employers prioritize when hiring. It also helps you network and build a professional identity that will have a lasting impact on your career success.
Some companies have formal internship programs or will post job advertisements for interns. You can also email companies that interest you and ask if they would be open to you interning in a future term. If students in or alumni of your PhD program have pursued non-academic positions, you can ask them about any industry experiences they may have gained while in school.
Internships require additional time and work on top of graduate school, so you should be prepared to balance both. It is also important to set expectations with your supervisor on how you will work together and what skills you should develop. You should also be mindful of your competing obligations and whether an internship is the right fit for you.
