OPINION: A USF student tells you why internships are overhyped

The season for applying to summer internships has arrived.
College is one of the most exciting and busiest times of one’s life. We’re expected to take a full-time class load, be social and work a part-time job on top of all of this.
Amid all this, it can be difficult to secure an internship. So, let this be your reminder that there are many jobs out there if an internship doesn’t work out.
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It’s important not to be hard on yourself if you are denied or cannot find one that fits you, or your schedule, best.
I can testify to this because I have been through the trials and tribulations of finding an internship, just to settle for a retail job.
I work at Abercrombie & Fitch, and honestly, I’ve never been happier with my choice.
Retail is an easier option for me and allows me to choose my own schedule.
Although in retail you may often deal with overbearing customers or “Karens,” you have simple tasks to complete throughout your day.
Whether it’s manning the cash registers, organizing clothing or taking stock, the tasks are not as extensive as an internship might be.
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But this doesn’t mean it’s not beneficial for your resume.
Working in jobs such as retail and food service also allows you to gain more teamwork skills by communicating more with others in a high-paced environment.
Often, you will have to work with others to set up the floor and clean up after customers.
Teamwork is important because in future jobs or even class settings, it prepares you to effectively work with your peers.
Last summer, I worked as a law intern for a real estate and business lawyer. I was miserable.
I did not have certain freedoms, such as choosing tasks I wanted to do, and I worked by myself most of the time.
I filed stacks and stacks of litigation, insurance and contact paperwork. Boring, right?
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I wanted to learn more about the legal field and how I could help others, instead I just felt like I was drowning in a sea of paper.
What was even worse was that I got conflicting tasks and had to redo many things.
I was paid for my work, but some internships are not paid. I’d much rather receive minimum wage for my time and efforts than nothing.
It is great to have exposure in the field of your choice, and everyone’s experience is different but it’s okay to settle for other positions.
Consider any rejections as an opening door. Now, you can find something that fits you and your schedule.