When an Intern is Right for Your Business vs. an Assistant

Felena Hanson talks with Jenna Stenderup & Naliyah Edwards about the differences between an intern and an assistant. A strong internship should not only be a resume builder but also be a valuable learning experience. Interns benefit most when they receive meaningful assignments, clear expectations, regular feedback, and opportunities to understand how a business operates. The goal is not to delegate tasks, but to help emerging professionals build confidence, skills, and professional connections. Research shows that internships significantly increase a graduate’s likelihood of securing a degree-level job, receiving multiple job offers and earning a higher starting salary. 63.1% of 2024–25 interns converted into full-time employees. Of those receiving offers, 88.3% accepted them. In a recent survey, 87.8% of interns said they learned skills they would not have learned in the classroom. By investing in interns today, we help develop the talented, innovative, and community-minded leaders of tomorrow.   / felenahanson     / naliyahedwards     / jennastenderup