If you’re looking to get some hands-on experience in your field, you’ve probably come across the terms “internship” and “externship.” While internships often take center stage when it comes to career prep, externships can be just as valuable. These short-term, immersive experiences help bridge the gap between what you’ve learned in school and how it’s applied in the real world.
But what's an externship, exactly? In this article, we’ll define the term, break down the key differences between internships and externships, and highlight why they might be the perfect fit for students and early-career professionals exploring different professions.
What is an externship
When asked to define “externship,” one might describe it as a short-term, immersive experience designed to help you observe and engage with professionals in a specific field. Externships typically last from a single day to a few weeks and are usually unpaid. During this time, you’ll get a snapshot of a profession by interviewing professionals, attending meetings, observing different roles, or even taking guided tours of the workplace.
Unlike internships, where you typically get assigned hands-on tasks or projects, externships are more like job shadowing—they offer you an opportunity to witness and understand the day-to-day operations of a particular career.
Externships are often set up through educational institutions and offer a great opportunity for both students and career changers. They help you explore a field before fully committing and figure out if it’s the right fit for you.
Externship vs internship: key differences
Both internships and externships help you assess whether a particular career or industry aligns with your goals, but they serve different purposes and fit into different schedules. Here’s a closer look at internship vs externship:
Externship
- Typically lasts a few days to a few weeks
- Focus on observation and shadowing rather than hands-on work
- Usually unpaid, as they’re primarily educational experiences
- Often organized through schools and may not carry academic credit
- Designed to give a brief, exploratory insight into a field
Internship
- Often spans several months, aligning with academic semesters or summer breaks
- Involve specific tasks, projects, and sometimes long-term responsibilities
- May be paid or unpaid, depending on the organization and role
- Frequently tied to academic credit and curriculum requirements
- Focus on developing skills and gaining practical work experience
For a little extra guidance, read this next: Externship vs Internship: What's the Difference?
Are externships right for you? Benefits for students and professionals
Externships offer some unique benefits that make them a great way to explore a career:
- Get a sneak peek into the industry. You’ll get a firsthand look at what a profession is really like, giving you a clearer idea of its challenges and rewards.
- Boost your resume. Even if it's just for a short time, an externship shows future employers that you're proactive and eager to learn.
- Clarify your career choices. It's a great way to figure out what excites you about a job—or what doesn’t quite fit your goals.
- Grow your network. You'll meet people who could become valuable mentors or even open doors to future job opportunities.
How to find—and get—an externship
To secure an externship you need to plan ahead and think proactively. Here’s how to make it happen.
Leverage your school’s resources
Many colleges and universities have partnerships with companies and professionals offering externship opportunities. Start by reaching out to your career services department—they can help you find leads and even offer advice on how to land one.
Externships are especially common in fields where hands-on experience is key. Here are some industries where they’re often available:
- Healthcare: Shadow doctors, nurses, and other medical professionals.
- Law: Observe courtroom action or assist with legal consultations.
- Education: Help out teachers or school administrators in the classroom.
- Business: Explore marketing, finance, or operations roles.
- Technology: See how software developers or IT professionals work behind the scenes.
Network with professionals
Use platforms like LinkedIn, attend industry events, or even reach out directly to people in your field. Let them know you're interested in learning from their expertise through an externship.
Be specific about your goals
When you reach out to potential hosts, make sure you’re specific about what you want to learn and why you’re interested in their company or industry. Being clear helps you stand out and shows your genuine interest.
Prepare a polished resume
Even though externships are mostly about observing, a well-crafted resume shows you’re serious and ready to take on this learning opportunity. (If you need help, here’s how to make the perfect resume—with examples!)
Stay proactive and flexible
Externship schedules can vary depending on the host’s availability, so be flexible and open to different timeframes. The more adaptable you are, the higher your chances of landing an externship.
Get started
Externships offer more than just a chance to observe—they can lead to internships and long-term opportunities. By showing enthusiasm, professionalism, and a strong work ethic, you could find yourself in line for a role at the same organization. These experiences let you explore a career path, build valuable connections, and pave the way for future roles.
An externship opportunity not only gives you clarity on your career goals, it can help you expand your network and set yourself up for success.
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FAQs
What is the definition of externship?
An externship is a short-term, observational learning experience that allows individuals to shadow professionals in a specific field. They typically last from a day to a few weeks and help participants explore career paths before making a commitment.
Are externships paid?
No, externships are typically unpaid since their primary purpose is educational.
Can you do an externship while studying?
Yes, their short duration makes externships ideal for students with busy schedules.
How do you find externship opportunities outside of school?
You can network with professionals, join industry organizations, or use platforms like LinkedIn to identify opportunities.
Are externships worth it?
Absolutely. They provide unique insights, help build connections, and refine career goals.
Can externships lead to full-time jobs?
While uncommon, externships can sometimes open doors to internships or job offers through networking.