To see the word “free” printed on posters and signs often brings a smile to everyone’s face. When people are required to complete tasks for free, like those required in an internship, is when that smile slowly fades away.

Internships are considered an essential step towards careers. Experience is often what defines you from the next person coming for the job you want. You have to get yourself out there one way or another. Although a fair majority of internships are unpaid and the sound of that doesn’t have the nicest ring to it, students shouldn’t feel as if their work is going towards nothing.

Of all the various types of jobs and work that exist, you might think you already know what is right for you. That might be the case, but in reality you never know until you actually try it. Being an unpaid intern may seem intimidating, inconvenient or worthless but to take the time to become one will prepare yourself for future job opportunities when they come along.

Students are able to gain relevant insight into whether or not they will enjoy the career they think they want before having to formally commit to it. Who wouldn’t want to bask in the fact that you saved yourself from putting in time and energy for a job that wasn’t what you expected it to be. Interns are able to put themselves in positions to not only learn how to work within a company, but learn how to manage multiple responsibilities outside of school.

While learning the ropes of coordinating between classes and internships, it is likely that the two can work simultaneously through internships for course credit. Some majors have a graduation requirement for students to complete an internship. The more experience you gain from those internships will help you determine if what you’re studying is the right choice to follow through with. Although not everyone has to complete one, having the requirement is helpful for those who might turn away from the thought of having an internship, especially one without pay.

The advantages that can come from any type of internship are extremely helpful. Companies are willing to invest time to train you for their work and have you understand what their company entails from an inside point of view. A fair amount of times, employers offer interns a job after the internship has ended since they have been trained accordingly to already know what is it like to work for the company.

When the opportunity strikes, take what you can from internships and prove how valuable you are as a student, trainee or beginner. You can get your foot in the door and build professional connections. Once you start applying for the ideal job, you will be appreciative of the connections and experience you received from being an intern.